Queensland Distillery Tour

If you’re looking to explore the craft spirit scene on the Gold Coast, the Queensland Distillery Tour at Granddad Jacks is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact experience, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a warm, engaging, and flavorful journey into Australian spirits. It’s a perfect fit for those interested in authentic distillery processes, tasting award-winning spirits, and enjoying local food.

What really appeals are the informative guided tour, the variety of spirits sampled, and the casual, family-friendly vibe of the distillery. We also love that the experience begins with a complimentary cocktail, setting a relaxed tone. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a strictly 18+ experience, so it’s not suitable for minors or pregnant visitors. It’s ideal for curious adults wanting a taste of local craftsmanship combined with a fun social atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Handcrafted spirits with a story behind each bottle.
• Engaging Tours: A guided walkthrough revealing the distillation process and history.
• Variety of Tastings: Sampling gin, whiskey, vodka, and liqueurs that have earned awards.
• Local Food Pairings: Choice of a traditional Aussie Vegemite & Cheese Jaffle or a cheese platter.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Located in a laid-back neighborhood near the beach.
• Value for Money: At $76 per person, the experience offers a lot of insight and tastings in just 1.5 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: An Authentic Taste of Queensland’s Spirit Scene

This distillery tour at Granddad Jacks offers a solid introduction to the Gold Coast’s lively craft spirits scene, without the hefty price tag or overly commercial feel. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the consistent praise about the friendly guides, delicious spirits, and relaxed environment makes it look like a memorable outing for anyone interested in learning more about how local spirits come to life.

What stands out is how personable the experience is—visitors often mention the knowledgeable guides who not only explain the distilling process but also share stories behind the spirits and the distillery’s history. The tasting session is thoughtfully curated, with a good mix of spirits that appeal to both novices and connoisseurs. Plus, the snacks and option for a Vegemite & Cheese Jaffle or cheese platter add a satisfying touch, turning the tasting into a true flavor experience.

A slight consideration is the duration—just 1.5 hours—so it’s a quick visit, but that’s enough time to get a meaningful overview without feeling rushed. It’s best suited for those who enjoy small-group, interactive experiences that combine education with tasting.

What Makes This Distillery Tour Special?

A Unique Setting and Atmosphere

Granddad Jacks is built from recycled materials, transforming an old surfboard warehouse into a rustic, raw space that feels both authentic and inviting. The open production area means you can see the spirits being made right before your eyes, surrounded by oak barrels and aromatic botanicals. This kind of transparency isn’t always common in distilleries, and it adds a genuine, behind-the-scenes feel that many visitors value.

A Deep Dive Into Spirit Making

The guided tour is led by knowledgeable staff, including David & Luke Ridden, the founders, who are passionate about sharing their craft. Visitors learn about the origins of Granddad Jack’s spirits, inspired by family stories, which adds an emotional resonance to the experience. The tour’s emphasis on local and national ingredients underscores the distillery’s commitment to quality and sustainability. Expect to hear about the handcrafted process, from botanicals to final waxed bottles—details that make each sip more meaningful.

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Tasting the Award-Winners

Sampling the core range spirits—gin, whiskey, vodka, and liqueurs—gives visitors a true appreciation for the distillery’s skill. Reviewers mention the award-winning gin and whiskey as particular highlights, often with comments like, “The whiskey was smooth and full of character.” For those with a refined palate, there’s also access to some unreleased whiskeys, providing a sense of exclusivity.

Food Pairings That Hit the Spot

The snack options are simple but thoughtfully chosen. The Vegemite & Cheese Jaffle is a true Australian classic, offering a salty, cheesy bite that pairs well with spirits. Alternatively, a cheese platter provides a more refined snack, perfect for those who prefer milder flavors. Guests frequently mention how these nibbles complement the tasting and extend the enjoyment.

Family-Friendly and Accessible

Although the tour is for 18+ due to alcohol, the setting is laid-back and welcoming. The fact that it’s wheelchair accessible and located just a short walk from the beach makes it easy to combine with other Gold Coast activities. The surrounding neighborhood is lively, full of cafes, breweries, and restaurants, perfect for rounding out your day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience begins with a welcome cocktail—a nice touch that immediately relaxes guests and sets a convivial tone. The tour itself takes about 45 minutes to an hour, where guides walk you through the distilling process, sharing stories about the family history behind the spirits.

Next, you’ll move into the tasting session, where a selection of core spirits is presented. You can expect to sample different flavors and styles, with guides explaining the nuances of each. For whiskey lovers, the curated whiskey tasting offers both familiar and new profiles, some unreleased, giving a sense of discovery. The tasting is accompanied by nibbles, which are perfect for cleansing the palate and enhancing the flavors.

The final part of the tour allows for relaxed socialising, where you can chat with guides or fellow guests, and perhaps buy bottles to take home. Because the distillery’s setup is transparent, you get to see the spirits being made, smell the botanicals, and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.

Value and Pricing: Is It Worth It?

At $76 per person, the tour offers good value considering the guided experience, the spirits tastings, and snacks included. When you compare this to other similar experiences, it’s a reasonably priced introduction to craft spirits that also supports local producers. The small group size means more personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciate.

While it’s a quick experience, the quality of the guide, the variety of spirits, and the family history behind the distillery** elevate it from a simple tasting to an engaging cultural experience. It’s especially attractive for those new to spirits or anyone wanting to learn more about Australian distilling traditions.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early: Punctuality is important, and arriving 10 minutes early ensures you won’t miss any part of the tour.
• Bring ID: You’ll need a valid photo ID or passport to verify your age.
• Transportation: Plan ahead since you’ll need to organize your own transport; given the alcohol involved, avoid driving afterward.
• Dress comfortably: The space is open and rustic, so casual attire is perfect.
• Book in advance: Popular weekends tend to fill quickly, so securing a reservation is advised.

The Sum Up

The Queensland Distillery Tour at Granddad Jacks offers a genuine glimpse into Australia’s craft spirit scene in a setting that’s both approachable and authentic. With passionate guides, a carefully curated tasting lineup, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s ideal for curious adults eager to expand their knowledge—and their palates.

While the 1.5-hour duration may leave some wanting more, the quality of the experience compensates for its brevity. It’s especially suitable for those interested in locally made spirits, fans of small-batch distilling, or anyone looking for a relaxed social outing with a touch of Australian character.

This tour balances education, taste, and storytelling, making it a memorable addition to any Gold Coast itinerary. It’s a perfect stop for those who appreciate craftsmanship, enjoy good company, or simply want a fun way to learn about the local spirits scene.

FAQ

Is there an age restriction for the tour?
Yes, all participants must be 18 years or older, and a valid ID may be required upon arrival.

What do I need to bring?
Just your passport or driver’s license for ID verification. No other special items are necessary.

Are there vegetarian or specific dietary options?
The tour offers a choice of an Aussie Vegemite & Cheese Jaffle or a cheese platter, catering to different tastes.

Can I visit if I’m pregnant?
No, this experience involves alcohol and is only suitable for those 18+.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the distillery is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

How long is the experience?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including the cocktail, tour, tastings, and nibbles.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends or busy periods, to secure your spot.

Granddad Jacks Craft Distillery’s Queensland Distillery Tour offers a taste of local craftsmanship, a welcoming atmosphere, and a chance to learn about Australian spirits firsthand. Whether you’re a spirit novice or connoisseur, it provides a meaningful and enjoyable experience, perfect for rounding out a day on the Gold Coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: