Sullivans Cove: A Journey of Engagement

As I sat down to write about Sullivans Cove’s latest release, I couldn’t help but think about the journey that has led to this moment. The Tasmanian distillery is celebrating its 30-year anniversary, and what better way to mark the occasion than with the release of Australia’s oldest whisky?

The 24-year-old single-cask, HH0004, is a masterpiece. Laid down during the distillery’s fifth year of operation, this whisky has spent 24 years slowly maturing in their bond store. The Sullivans Cove sensory panel has been carefully monitoring its progress, tasting it 19 times in the past three years to ensure it was bottled at its peak of flavour and harmony.

The art of whisky-making is a journey of engagement

The tasting notes are a testament to the craftsmanship of the Sullivans Cove team. The whisky welcomes you with sweet and nutty flavours, followed by notes of maple syrup and rich cacao. The finish is a masterclass in balance, with leathery vanilla, cantaloupe, and rose petals all making an appearance.

Distillery manager Heather Tillott describes the crafting of a great single-cask whisky as a “journey of engagement”. It’s a process that requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the spirit. As she so eloquently puts it, “The people involved must be engaged with the liquid and the process through every season of the expedition. Using their senses to listen to the maturation and asking: What does this spirit need to reach its full potential?”

Heather Tillott, Distillery Manager at Sullivans Cove

Finesse is not born of chance, but of tact and grounded engagement. Twenty-four years of listening and collaboratively working with this cask has allowed a window into the sublime, and we are delighted to share its depth and complexity with you.

The HH0004 will be available exclusively to Sullivans Cove mailing list subscribers via ballot on 20th May, with each bottle priced at $2,500. If you’re not already on the mailing list, you can join at www.sullivanscove.com.

In other news, Sullivans Cove is reopening its visitor experience to guests later this month, following a recent refurbishment. If you’re a whisky enthusiast, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

The Sullivans Cove Distillery is reopening its visitor experience

As I raise a glass to Sullivans Cove and their incredible achievement, I am reminded of the power of patience, dedication, and collaboration. The HH0004 is a true masterpiece, and I feel privileged to have been able to share its story with you.