Kempton: Craft Distillery Tour with Whisky Tasting & Lunch
Location: Tasmania, Australia
Price: $53 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Rating: 4.8/5 from 6 reviews
When you think of Tasmania, you probably picture rugged coastlines and wild landscapes, but this tour offers a different kind of adventure—one centered around Tasmanian spirits crafted with care and tradition. For just over $50, you get to visit Dysart House, explore the Old Kempton Distillery, and enjoy a guided tasting of four premium spirits, finishing with a Tasmanian antipasto platter.
We love how this experience combines history, craftsmanship, and good food in a compact two-hour window. The tour’s setting at Dysart House, a gracious old home with stories to tell—including some ghostly ones—adds charm and character to the behind-the-scenes look at distilling. Also, the quality of the tastings and the delicious antipasto lunch make this a worthwhile indulgence.
A small consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to organize your own way to reach Kempton. Also, if you’re expecting a large crowd or a very busy schedule, this tour tends to run smoothly with a smaller group, but it’s best to arrive early to ensure a relaxed experience.
This tour is an excellent fit for those who enjoy authentic spirits, history buffs, food lovers, and anyone curious about Tasmania’s emerging craft distilling scene.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Combines a historic house tour with a behind-the-scenes look at distilling.
- Quality Tastings: Sample four single malts, gins, or liqueurs crafted with 100% Tasmanian ingredients.
- Delicious Food: Enjoy a Tasmanian antipasto platter valued at $80, included in the tour price.
- Engaging Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable staff make the experience informative and lively.
- Beautiful Setting: Dysart House and grounds offer a mix of history, charm, and a touch of ghost stories.
- Great Value: For $53, you get a well-rounded experience with tastings, a meal, and a scenic tour.
A Closer Look at the Kempton Craft Distillery Experience
If you’re seeking a memorable way to understand Tasmania’s growing reputation for spirits, this tour offers a perfect blend of education and indulgence. The journey begins at Dysart House, an impressive historic building that’s been home to the Old Kempton Distillery since 2015. As you step inside, you’ll immediately sense the grandeur—high ceilings, antique furnishings, and a sense of history that makes the experience feel special.
The house itself is part of the allure—its stories, haunted tales, and grounds are woven into the tour, giving you a glimpse into the past of this elegant property. The guides do a good job of sharing local legends and history, making the experience engaging for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Behind the Scenes at the Distillery
Following the house tour, you’ll head into the bond store—a room full of barrels of various shapes and sizes, each with whisky maturing to perfection. Observing the barrels and learning about the process of aging adds an authentic touch you won’t get at a typical bar. You’ll see the craftsmanship involved, from selecting Tasmanian ingredients to barrel types, and get a sense of how unique each spirit can be.
The distillery tour itself is a chance to see the equipment and observe the process, making it clear that Old Kempton takes pride in their artisanal approach. The guides, including someone like John as mentioned in reviews, are praised for their friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge, making complex topics accessible and fun.
Tasting Time: Four Premium Spirits
The highlight for many is the guided tasting, where you sample four spirits chosen from their range of whisky, gin, and liqueurs. You’ll learn about the flavor profiles, the ingredients, and what makes each spirit unique—particularly because they use 100% Tasmanian ingredients, which adds a local touch to every sip.
The reviews highlight that the tastings are “amazing” and “excellent”, with some travelers mentioning that they appreciated the variety and quality. The fact that you get to taste four different spirits makes this experience more than just a quick sip—it’s a genuine exploration of Tasmania’s craft distilling skills.
The Antipasto Platter: A Delicious Finish
After the tasting, you’re invited into the Cask Lounge, located in the old coaching inn, for your Tasmanian antipasto platter, included in the cost. Valued at $80, this meal features a selection of local cheeses, cured meats, and antipasto bites—an ideal pairing with your spirits or a perfect standalone snack to soak up the alcohol.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere, making it a fitting end to a well-rounded experience. It’s a lovely way to reflect on what you’ve learned and tasted while enjoying the historic surroundings.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Value
The entire experience lasts around two hours, making it perfect for a morning activity or an early afternoon outing. While transportation isn’t included, the tour’s wheelchair accessibility and the requirement to arrive 15 minutes early make it straightforward to plan your visit. The price point of $53 offers great value, considering the guided tour, four tastings, and lunch—a package that would be significantly more expensive if booked separately.
The reviews confirm that the friendly staff and beautiful setting make the experience enjoyable, with a few noting the good atmosphere and laughs shared during tastings. It’s clear that this isn’t just about spirits but about creating a memorable, authentic experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits spirits enthusiasts eager to learn more about Tasmanian craft distilling, history lovers interested in Dysart House, and foodies who appreciate quality antipasto. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed, informative outing, especially those who want a taste of the local scene without a long commitment.
It’s not a tour for children under 18, and those with mobility issues should check accessibility details, but overall, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances learning, tasting, and scenic charm.
Final Thoughts
For anyone curious about Tasmania’s burgeoning craft spirits scene, the Kempton Craft Distillery Tour offers a great value way to learn, taste, and enjoy in a historic setting. The mixture of history, picturesque grounds, and delicious food makes this a highly engaging experience, especially if you’re eager to understand what makes Tasmanian spirits so special.
The friendly guides and hands-on approach ensure that you leave with more than just a full stomach—you’ll walk away with stories, knowledge, and perhaps a new favorite spirit. It’s perfect for a half-day adventure that combines culture, local flavor, and a bit of fun.
FAQ
- How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity.
- Is transportation included? No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your own way to Kempton.
- Can I choose different spirits for tastings? While the standard tour includes four spirits, additional tastings of gin and liqueurs may be available on site depending on your preferences.
- Is the experience suitable for children? No, this tour is not suitable for children under 18 years.
- Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.
- What should I bring? Bring your driver’s license and closed-toe shoes for safety and identification purposes.
- What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Does the tour include a meal? Yes, a Tasmanian antipasto platter for one is included in the price.
- Are guides available in languages other than English? The tour is offered in English, with no mention of other languages.
To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced look at Tasmania’s spirits, history, and local cuisine. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed, informative outing in a beautiful historic setting. Whether you’re a whisky devotee or simply curious about Tasmania’s craft scene, you’ll find plenty to love here.
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