Why South Australia’s 23rd Street Distillery Is Redefining Whisky Excellence

The emergence of South Australian distilleries on the global whisky stage is gaining momentum, with 23rd Street Distillery leading the charge. Having only been operational since 2016, this spirited establishment has already left an indelible mark, earning accolades at prestigious competitions such as The Spirits Business Luxury Masters 2024, where two of its creations were honored among the world’s finest.

The craftsmanship behind award-winning whisky.

In this remarkable journey, the 23rd Street Australian Whisky won gold in the World Whisky Super Premium category, while its 23rd Street Australian Single Malt Whisky triumphed in the Ultra Premium class. This impressive feat highlights not only the talent within the distillery but also reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing locally produced whisky in a market dominated by imports.

“With 95 per cent of whisky sold in Australia being imported, we set out to disrupt the category by creating a whisky that Australians could take real pride in,” says Chris Illman, a pivotal figure at 23rd Street Distillery.

A Festive Indulgence

The 23rd Street Australian Whisky, priced at $86.10, stands out as an ideal gift for the festive season. Its recognition as one of the finest whiskies globally serves as a testament to its quality and character, making it not merely a drink but a splendid token of appreciation for whisky lovers.

“Securing two Gold medals at The Spirits Business Luxury Masters is not only a major milestone for our team but also a testament to the dedication, passion, and craftsmanship that has gone into creating our Australian whisky range.”

This whisky enthralls with complex aromas of citrus, orange blossom, and caramelized fruit, presenting a palate enriched by notes of dark chocolate spice, roasted nuts, and a wonderfully creamy finish. Pair it with scorched almonds or an Australian aged hard cheese for an exquisite tasting experience.

Meanwhile, the Single Malt, characterized by aromas of toffee and lifted fruit, offers a luscious palate experience that unfolds with citrus and apricot notes, leading to a delicate butterscotch oak finish. This diversity of flavors not only makes each sip an adventure but elevates the overall appreciation of what Australian whisky has to offer.

The exciting flavors of Australian Single Malt Whisky.

Crafting Excellence: The Making of Winning Whiskies

What lies behind the accolades? Let’s delve into the meticulous processes that yield these award-winning spirits.

The Art of Creating Australian Whisky

The crafting of 23rd Street Australian Whisky begins with select premium Australian barley malts, chosen for their ability to produce a fine blend of fruit, spice, and caramel warmth. The whisky wash undergoes dual distillation through historic Copper Pots, bringing out the complexities inherent in the ingredients. Matured in both ex-Bourbon American oak and select Tawny barrels, the whisky’s maturation is enhanced by the Riverland climate, which maintains a consistent aging environment. Each bottle of 23rd Street Australian Whisky has matured in oak for a minimum of two years, showcasing the importance of time and skilled blending in achieving a superior product.

Tasting Notes: Unraveling the Single Malt Whisky

On the other hand, the Australian Single Malt Whisky also boasts equally impressive origins. Sourced from what many claim to be the finest barley in the world, and grown in the pristine atmosphere of Kangaroo Island, the barley undergoes careful malting and roasting. With no additives beyond water, yeast, and a generous measure of patience, the spirit is born.

The dual-purpose copper pot stills are utilized for distillation, allowing for a nuanced approach to separating and aging the spirit. As this whisky thrives in the warm Riverland summers, approximately 7% is lost annually to the “Angel’s share,” an evocative term that symbolizes the natural evaporation that occurs during maturation. Only the purest varieties of the spirit are married together before being aged for an enticing 2.5 years in a myriad of oak barrels, culminating in an experience that’s as dynamic as it is refined.

“Only the purest of the hearts fraction of spirit is reduced to approximately 65 per cent and matured for 2.5 years in a massive variety of oak barrels and small oak vats.”

Beyond Whisky: A Broader Spirit Portfolio

While the focus remains on whisky, the distillery doesn’t hold back in diversifying its offerings. Among its range are the uniquely crafted double cask Hybrid Whisky and an array of gins, including the spirited Violet Gin and the zestful Yuzi Gin. The distillery’s commitment to quality extends to its award-winning vodkas, showcasing a comprehensive dedication to high-caliber spirits.

Nestled in Renmark, South Australia, 23rd Street Distillery occupies a historically rich site that was once home to Australia’s first co-operatively owned winery, Renmano, for nearly a century. This heritage infuses every bottle with a sense of place and purpose, enriching the entire drinking experience.

To explore 23rd Street’s unique offerings, including their gins and vodkas, and to shop online, click here.

In the realm of global whisky, 23rd Street Distillery emerges not just as a newcomer but as a formidable contender that invites whisky enthusiasts to explore the rich, diverse flavors of Australian distillation. Discovering their award-winning spirits not only supports a local industry but builds a rich tapestry of tradition and innovation that is reshaping the global perception of whisky.