Exploring the 1 Hour Distillery Tour & Tasting at Turner Stillhouse
If you’re after a quick yet immersive taste of Tasmania’s burgeoning spirits scene, the Turner Stillhouse tour in Launceston offers a compelling peek behind the scenes. Priced at just over $16 per person, this guided experience blends craftsmanship, local flavor, and expert insight into a tidy one-hour package. While brief, it packs enough punch to satisfy gin enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
What we love about this experience is its informative guides, the chance to learn about award-winning spirits, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The tasting session offers a real treat—focusing on their Three Cuts Gin and Vodka—with the promise of whisky releases in mid-2024 adding anticipation for future visits. The potential downside? The tour’s short duration and focus on spirits might leave those seeking a more extensive tasting or full production tour wanting more.
This tour fits best for visitors who enjoy a quick, authentic glimpse into craft distilling, are interested in learning about spirits, or simply want a fun activity that complements their Tasmanian adventure. Perfect for those with limited time, casual drinkers, or anyone curious about how Tasmania’s spirit scene is flourishing.
Key Points
- Concise but comprehensive: A one-hour behind-the-scenes look at Turner Stillhouse’s craft.
- Authentic tasting experience: Enjoys a guided sampling of award-winning gin and vodka.
- Knowledgeable guides: Staff provide clear, professional explanations that enhance understanding.
- Affordable value: At around $16, offers a budget-friendly way to discover local spirits.
- Upcoming whisky release: Future whiskies, aged patiently for mid-2024 release, build excitement.
- Accessible and easy to find: Well-signposted location ensures a hassle-free visit.
Looking for more options in Launceston? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
A Closer Look at the Turner Stillhouse Tour
Starting Point and Location
The tour begins at Turner Stillhouse’s Cellar Door, located at 1A Waldhorn Drive in the scenic Grindelwald area outside Launceston. The venue is easy to find thanks to clear signage, and its welcoming setup hints at a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Most visitors book this experience about two weeks in advance, indicating good demand and planning.
The Tour Itself: What to Expect
Once you arrive, your guide—an expert staff member—will meet you and lead you around the distillery floor. This is where the magic of spirit-making happens. The tour is designed to be informative yet approachable, making it suitable even for those new to distilling.
Expect to see the equipment used in crafting Three Cuts Gin, renowned for its multi-award-winning status, alongside their Vodka. The guide will explain each step of the process, from raw ingredients to the final distillate, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship. The fact that the stillhouse is described as very well signposted and easy to navigate makes this part straightforward and engaging.
Tasting Session: A Highlight
Following the tour, you’ll head to the tasting room for a guided session. You’ll sample the core spirits—the gin and vodka—while the staff explain what makes each one special, how they’re crafted, and the best ways to enjoy them. Although the whisky isn’t available for tasting yet (due to needing more time to age), visitors are excited about the upcoming releases slated for mid-2024.
Reviewers consistently appreciate the tasting experience: one described it as “a real treat” and praised the knowledgeable presentation. The opportunity to sample award-winning spirits in a friendly setting makes this more than just a quick pour; it’s an educational moment in a casual environment.
Post-Tour: Relax and Enjoy
After the tasting, visitors are welcome to stay and try one of the signature cocktails—a perfect way to end the hour. Whether you prefer a classic gin and tonic or a more creative concoction, the staff’s friendly approach makes trying the spirits on-site enjoyable.
Why This Tour Works Well
Knowledgeable Guides and Professionalism
While the tour lasts just about an hour, the staff clearly know their stuff. Reviews highlight the guides as “very professional” with a great use of their time, making complex distilling processes easy to understand. The staff’s friendliness and expertise really shine through, adding value to the experience.
Authenticity and Quality
The spirits themselves are recognized as multi-award-winning, and the fact that the gin and vodka are described as “fantastic” by reviewers indicates that the quality is high. The inclusion of a tasting of core spirits allows visitors to connect with the craft and appreciate the nuances of each product.
Value for Money
Considering the close-up access to the distillery, the guided tasting, and the chance to sample premium spirits for just over $16, this experience offers solid value. It’s an affordable way to deepen your appreciation of Tasmanian distilling, especially for those who may not want a full-day or multiple-hour tour.
Anticipation for Future Releases
While the whisky isn’t available yet, the heads-up about its mid-2024 release adds an exciting layer for repeat visitors or whisky enthusiasts. It’s a chance to see how a local distillery develops and matures its products.
Practicalities and Tips
- Booking in advance is recommended, as most travelers plan about two weeks ahead.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers and service animals are allowed.
- The maximum group size is 25 people, ensuring a personal experience without feeling crowded.
- The tour is mobile ticketed, making check-in straightforward.
- Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.
- After the tasting, take some time to explore the shop or enjoy a cocktail on-site.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for spirits enthusiasts wanting an insider’s look at Tasmanian distilling. Casual travelers will appreciate its relaxed vibe and the chance to taste local spirits, while those interested in craft and quality will value the professionalism of the guides. It’s also perfect for visitors with limited time who want a meaningful, reasonably priced activity that adds a flavor of Tasmania’s growing reputation in premium spirits.
The Sum Up
The Turner Stillhouse 1-hour distillery tour and tasting offers a well-balanced glimpse into Tasmania’s thriving distilling scene. You’ll benefit from friendly, knowledgeable guides, high-quality spirits, and an engaging, no-pressure environment. For just over $16, it’s a smart choice for those curious about gin, vodka, and upcoming whisky releases, or anyone seeking a taste of local craftsmanship.
While it’s not a deep dive into every aspect of spirit production, the experience delivers authenticity, expert insights, and a genuine connection to Tasmania’s spirits culture. We’d recommend it most to travelers who enjoy learning about local products in a relaxed setting—and to those who want a fun, affordable activity that complements their Tasmanian adventure.
FAQs
How long is the distillery tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, including the guided walk and tasting session.
What spirits will I taste?
You will taste the distillery’s core spirits: their award-winning Three Cuts Gin and Vodka. Whisky will be available for tasting after mid-2024.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves spirits tasting, it’s best suited for those of legal drinking age.
Can I stay after the tour to try more drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to stay and try a signature cocktail after the tasting.
How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 14 days in advance, which is recommended to secure your spot.
Is the location easy to find?
Yes, the stillhouse is well signposted and conveniently located at 1A Waldhorn Drive, Grindelwald.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted inside.
What is the price?
The experience costs around $16.53 per person, offering good value for the quality of the experience and tastings.
What makes this tour special?
It’s the mix of professional guidance, authentic spirits, and the chance to learn about Tasmania’s innovative distilling scene in a friendly environment.