Premium Tour and Lunch Package for 2

Exploring the Premium Tour and Lunch Package for Two in Tasmania

Tasmania is renowned for its pristine landscapes, exceptional food and drink, and small-batch spirits. This Premium Tour and Lunch Package for Two at Old Kempton Distillery offers a taste of all three in a compact, three-hour experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and delicious local flavors. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a worthwhile outing for those eager to explore Tasmania’s distilling scene and enjoy a relaxed, intimate meal.

What we love about this experience? First, the opportunity to visit Dysart House, a historic property with its grounds, stables, and the distillery itself. Second, the inclusion of a guided tasting of four different spirits — a real treat for those keen to learn about Tasmanian distilling. Lastly, the generous lunch featuring local produce paired with a bottle of Tasmanian wine makes for a laid-back, indulgent afternoon. The only possible caveat? The guide’s knowledge might not be as extensive as some travelers hope, according to one reviewer.

This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone interested in Tasmania’s craft spirits and local culinary scene. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience that combines education, taste, and scenery, this package definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Key Points

• Includes a guided tour of Dysart House and grounds
• Tastings of four different spirits provide insight into Tasmania’s distilling process
• A generous antipasto platter and Tasmanian wine offer a true regional flavor
• Visits are private for your group, adding a personal touch
• Approximately 3 hours long, perfect for a half-day activity
• Free cancellation allows flexibility in planning

In-Depth Look: What to Expect on This Tasmania Experience

The Venue: Dysart House and Green Ponds Hotel

Starting at the historic Dysart House, the tour’s meeting point is the Green Ponds Hotel, a charming location in Kempton that exudes country hospitality. As you arrive, you’ll notice the setting’s quiet charm, with the house itself offering a glimpse into Tasmania’s past. The property’s grounds, stables, and bond store (currently closed for safety upgrades) provide a picturesque backdrop for your visit.

The guided tour includes an in-depth walk around Dysart House, which, while limited in access to certain areas, still offers a sense of the property’s storied past. Given that one reviewer noted the guide’s limited knowledge, it’s worth approaching the commentary as a general overview rather than an exhaustive history. The grounds are scenic and provide a pleasant atmosphere for exploration.

Spirits Tasting: Four Tasmanian Distilleries

The core of this experience is the guided tasting of four spirits from Old Kempton Distillery. You’ll learn about their distillation process and sample a variety of flavors, which range from smooth gins to perhaps more unique offerings. The tasting is structured and educational, although one review mentions that the guide might not be as knowledgeable as some would prefer. Still, the spirits themselves are appreciated, particularly if you’re a fan of Tasmanian craftsmanship.

The Lunch: Local Flavors and Fine Wine

After the spirit tasting, you’ll move on to the highlight for many — the antipasto platter. Made with locally sourced Tasmanian produce, it’s a hearty, flavorful spread that showcases regional ingredients. Accompanied by a bottle of Tasmanian wine, this meal provides a relaxed setting to unwind and reflect on what you’ve experienced so far. One guest noted that the tasting portion was quite generous and satisfying, making it a good value for the price.

Additional Tastings at the Cask Lounge

Post-lunch, the visit continues at the Cask Lounge, where you can enjoy more tastings. While specific details about what’s served aren’t provided, this option suggests further opportunities to explore and sample regional spirits in a comfortable, intimate setting.

Souvenir Opportunities

If you’re keen to take home a piece of Tasmania’s distilling legacy, the shop area offers souvenirs that reflect the local spirit of the area. These small keepsakes can serve as memorable mementos of your day.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At $121.40 for a group of two, this experience offers a fair price considering the inclusiveness of the tour, tastings, and meal. You’re paying for a personalized experience — only your group participates — which enhances the sense of intimacy and attention.

The value lies in the combination of activities: a guided property walk, four spirit tastings, a substantial antipasto platter, and a bottle of Tasmanian wine. For those interested in Tasmania’s local beverages and regional cuisine, this offers a convenient and engaging way to learn and taste without having to plan multiple separate outings.

Timing and Group Size

The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance for a half-day activity, leaving room for other explorations in the area. The private group setup ensures a quieter, more tailored experience, which many travelers appreciate. Starting at 11:00 am, it fits well into a day of sightseeing or relaxation.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest praised the experience as “Excellent,” highlighting the absorbing information, generous lunch, and the quality of the wine. They felt it was a well-rounded tour that exceeded expectations. Conversely, another reviewer expressed disappointment over what they perceived as a lack of detailed knowledge from the guide, emphasizing the importance of engaging guides for a truly immersive experience.

The spirit tastings received positive feedback overall, with visitors enjoying the variety and the chance to taste local Tasmanian spirits. The lunch was also singled out as a highlight, especially for those who enjoy tasting regional produce paired with good wine.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

• Meeting Point: Dysart House at the Green Ponds Hotel, 26 Main St, Kempton TAS 7030.
• Start Time: 11:00 am, with the tour lasting around 3 hours.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but it’s best to confirm with the provider if you have special needs.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, authentic taste of Tasmania’s local spirits and cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re interested in learning about distilling in a scenic, historic setting without the pressure of overly structured tours. The inclusion of a fine wine and a substantial lunch makes it a good value for those who appreciate regional flavors, and the intimate setting suits travelers who prefer personalized attention.

However, if you’re a history buff or someone hoping for an in-depth technical explanation of distillation, you might find the guide’s knowledge somewhat limited. Still, the overall atmosphere, quality of tastings, and lovely scenery make it a worthwhile choice for most visitors.

Final Thoughts

This Premium Tour and Lunch Package for Two offers quite a bit for the price. With its combination of scenic grounds, engaging tastings, and regional fare, it serves as a delightful intro to Tasmania’s thriving craft spirit scene. The small-group format creates a more personal experience, and the included wine and antipasto make it feel like a true taste of local life.

While the guide’s expertise may vary, the overall experience appears to satisfy most, especially those keen on tasting and learning in a relaxed environment. It’s best suited for travelers who value authenticity, regional flavors, and a touch of history in a pleasant setting.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-rounded, authentic Tasmanian outing that balances education, flavor, and scenery, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s designed as a relaxed experience, but alcohol tastings mean it’s best for adults.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What’s included in the tour?
A guided visit of Dysart House, four spirit tastings, a bottle of Tasmanian wine, and an antipasto platter made with local produce.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including tasting, lunch, and the property visit.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the price covers everything listed; souvenirs are available for purchase if desired.

Is the guide’s knowledge sufficient?
Reviews suggest the guide is friendly but may not have extensive technical knowledge, so manage expectations if seeking detailed distillation insights.

This tour blends history, flavor, and scenery into a memorable half-day experience perfect for those wanting a taste of Tasmania’s craft spirit scene in a scenic, welcoming setting.