“With a name like William Fraser McHenry you should learn the bagpipes and make whisky.”
This casual comment from a Sydney neighbour led Bill McHenry to Port Arthur, Tasmania, where he now owns and runs Australia’s southernmost Distillery and Brewery.
Founded in 2011, the tiny William McHenry & Sons Distillery was established on a 100-acre property, which provides a tranquil setting and access to pure spring water form its 5 on site springs. In fact, the climate in this southern part of Tasmania is extremely close to Scottish conditions with high humidity and cool climate, the whisky loses a little more alcohol than other Tassie whiskies during maturation, leading to delicate whiskies with great complexity.
Every base ingredient for their spirits are locally sourced, as the family look to express their unique terroir in their spirits. The distillery uses a custom, Tasmanian-made water-jacketed electrically heated 500L pot still, which allows for precise quality control and consistency.
McHenry Distillery’s first single malt whisky was released in 2016, and they’ve since received international acclaim.
We have now expanded our range and produce a range of beverages including gin, beer, whisky, tonic water and canned RTD’s.
Our Cellar Door
Mchenry Distillery is nestled in the tranquil forrest of the Tasman Peninsula. Indulge in tasing flight and cheese board or cocktail. You can also book a tour at 12pm and 2pm on weekdays. You can find us just 10 minutes past the historic site
Distillery and Brewery Tour
Distillery tours are available at 12.00pm and 2.00pm. The tour includes a gin tasting paddle and wee Glencairn souvenir glass to take home. Bookings are essential.
Other Locations
If you can’t make it to Port Arthur, we have a weekly stall at Salamanca Market and a shop open Thursday to Monday at Brooke Street Pier where the Mona ferry leaves from.
Australia’s home of global-award-winning spirits.
Prepare to be enchanted by the Tasmanian Whisky and Spirits Trails, a passage into the realm of liquid spirits. Journey through stunning landscapes, meet passionate artisans and sample the best of Tasmania’s whisky, gin and spirits.
Access the trails connecting the many cellar doors scattered throughout the island. Their tasting rooms and restaurants are turning these distilleries into destinations on their own, with plenty to see and do in between.
Choose your own itinerary, visit your favourite distilleries, meet the makers and discover the true spirit of the Island.