Sullivans Cove Distillery

From the outset, Sullivans Cove sought to create whisky that spoke of its origin rather than mimic Scotch. Every drop begins with 100% Tasmanian-grown barley and pure mountain water, fermented slowly to develop a rich, flavoursome wash. Distillation takes place in traditional copper pot stills—originally a single still named Myrtle, now joined by two more—using techniques inspired by Cognac production, including worm-tub condensation for added texture. The cool maritime climate of Tasmania allows for extended ageing, a rarity in the Southern Hemisphere, and the distillery’s commitment to full-size casks ensures complexity without compromise. This meticulous approach has positioned Sullivans Cove as a leader in the global “New World” whisky movement.

At the heart of Sullivans Cove is a team of artisans led by Heather Tillott, whose background in wine brings a nuanced understanding of flavour and maturation. Under her stewardship, the distillery has embraced a philosophy of minimal intervention and sustainable practices, while continuing to innovate in cask selection—from American oak ex-Bourbon to French oak and fortified wine barrels. Each bottling is drawn from a single cask and hand-labelled on site, making every release unique. This dedication has earned Sullivans Cove an unparalleled reputation: not only as Australia’s most awarded whisky producer, but as a name that redefined what New World whisky can achieve.