Distillery Tour and Guided Tasting

Exploring the Old Kempton Distillery Tour and Guided Tasting

Tasmania, known for its pristine landscapes and craft spirits, offers a particularly charming experience at the Old Kempton Distillery. This tour is a favorite among visitors for its blend of history, craftsmanship, and excellent value. Although I haven’t personally taken it, based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a well-rounded experience for anyone interested in spirits, local history, or simply a fun afternoon out.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the historic setting in Dysart House—built in 1842—adds a layer of charm that many old-world lovers will appreciate. Second, the personalized guided experience with knowledgeable staff like Erin, who actively engage visitors and share insights, makes it both informative and enjoyable. Third, the quality of the tastings—four different spirits crafted from 100% Tasmanian ingredients—offers excellent value for the price.

That said, it’s important to note that the tour is relatively short, at about 90 minutes, which might leave some wanting more in terms of time or variety. Still, for those seeking a relaxed, intimate look into Tasmania’s craft spirits, this tour hits the right notes.

Ideal for anyone curious about spirits, history buffs, or travelers looking for a unique, local experience without breaking the bank, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, taste, and scenic charm.

Key Points

• Historic Setting: Held within Dysart House, dating from 1842, adding charm and a sense of place.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable staff, providing insight into the distillation process and the history behind the spirits.
• Product Range: Includes single malt whisky, gin, and liqueurs—all crafted from Tasmanian ingredients.
• Tastings: Four samples included, offering good value and insight into the distillery’s craftsmanship.
• Duration and Group Size: About 1.5 hours with a maximum of 20 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere.
• Cost-Effectiveness: At around $33.90 per person, it is considered excellent value, especially given the quality of the experience.

The Full Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Beginning at Dysart House

The tour kicks off at Dysart House, a historic structure built in 1842, located at the Green Ponds Hotel, Kempton. The building itself is a highlight—imagine wandering through stone walls that have stood for nearly two centuries, adding a layer of authenticity that’s hard to replicate. The distillery operates from the old coaching stables, which preserves the rustic, authentic feel of a working distillery while giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how spirits are crafted today.

The Guided Tour

Led by knowledgeable guides—reviewers mention John and Erin by name—this part of the experience involves a walk through the distillery. Expect to learn about the distillation process, from the raw ingredients to the final product. Reviewers like Annette_M say, “John provided an excellent and informative tour of the distillery and the process for making their handcrafted whisky, gin, and other liqueurs.” This suggests the guides are not only passionate but also skilled at explaining complex processes in an easy-to-understand way.

You’ll see the equipment and the fermentation tanks, and hear about what makes Tasmanian ingredients special in spirits production. The focus on craftsmanship and local sourcing adds a genuine appeal, especially for those who appreciate artisan products.

Tasting Session

After the tour, you’ll move to the tasting area, where four Old Kempton spirits are poured for sampling. These might include single malt whisky, gin, or liqueurs, all made from 100% Tasmanian ingredients. Reviewers have expressed particular satisfaction with the quality and variety—AlisonJ_M called it a “fabulous whiskey” and deemed it worth the stop.

The tasting is guided, so you’ll get insights into what makes each spirit distinctive—like the flavor notes or how the local climate influences the final product. The inclusion of four samples offers a satisfying experience for the price, especially since some comparable tastings can be much more expensive.

Additional Details

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it a manageable but engaging experience. Small group sizes—max 20 travelers—help foster a friendly, personalized atmosphere. Since the tour is run from the old coaching stables in Dysart House, expect a cozy, historical setting that’s both educational and relaxing.

The Value Proposition

At $33.90 per person, this tour provides more than just a tasting; it offers a chance to connect with Tasmania’s spirit-making traditions within a beautiful historic setting. The inclusion of four spirits for sampling means you’re getting a comprehensive look at what this distillery has to offer without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Compared to many other alcohol tastings, this experience strikes a good balance between quality and affordability. The fact that most reviewers found it “wonderful, fun, and interesting” confirms that the cost aligns well with the value.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Booking in advance is recommended, as the maximum group size is limited to 20.
• The tour starts promptly at 1:30 pm, so arriving a little earlier helps you settle in.
• Since private transportation isn’t included, plan your arrival accordingly—consider taxi or local transport.
• Expect a relaxed pace, suitable for all levels of spirits enthusiasts or curious travelers.
• The tour is accessible to most travelers; service animals are welcome.
• Be aware that cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if plans change.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who love artisanal spirits and want to learn about their production in a scenic, historic setting. It suits those seeking a relaxed, intimate activity that combines culture, history, and tasting—without the hassle of long tours or heavy commitments. It’s also a great choice for groups or couples looking for a memorable, yet affordable, Tasmanian experience.

If you’re a whiskey or gin enthusiast eager to explore local craftsmanship, or simply in search of a unique activity during your Tasmania trip, this tour offers a solid, authentic taste of what the island’s distilling culture is all about.

The Sum Up

The Old Kempton Distillery guided tour and tasting offers a balanced, engaging insight into Tasmania’s craft spirits within a stunning historic setting. With knowledgeable guides, four generous tastings, and a reasonable price, it represents excellent value for those interested in local products and history.

The experience’s intimate size and personal touch make it ideal for travelers who appreciate authenticity and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a spirits lover or a curious tourist, the combination of heritage and flavor here makes for a memorable stop.

While it’s a fairly short tour, the quality and authenticity compensate for the limited duration. It’s a perfect activity for an afternoon, especially if you want to combine it with some sightseeing or a leisurely lunch.

This tour delivers a genuine, enjoyable experience that’s well worth considering for anyone visiting Tasmania with an interest in spirits, history, or local culture.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, private transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to Dysart House at the starting point.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 1:30 pm, so plan to arrive a few minutes early to settle in.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the tour and tastings.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
Most travelers can participate; however, since this is a spirits tasting, those under the legal drinking age may not be eligible.

How many spirits are included in the tasting?
Four different Old Kempton spirits are sampled during the session.

Is the setting accessible for all?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and the tour is generally suitable for most travelers.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many visitors point to the combination of historical setting in Dysart House and the quality of the spirit samples.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
Yes, with a maximum of 20 travelers, it’s perfect for small groups, couples, or individuals seeking a personalized experience.