Fanny’s Bay Distillery

Written By Mark Modra

Perched on Tasmania’s northern coast, Fannys Bay Distillery offers a whisky experience like no other. Founded by Mathew and Julie Cooper in 2014, this small-scale, artisanal distillery has carved out a unique place in the Tasmanian whisky landscape. From its handcrafted still to the meticulous care taken with every barrel, Fannys Bay is a true testament to passion and tradition.

What Stood Out

Fannys Bay Distillery’s charm lies in its authenticity. This is not a high-tech operation—it’s a hands-on, heart-driven pursuit of whisky excellence. Mathew’s DIY approach to distillation includes a self-built still and hand-charred barrels, ensuring each bottle reflects the rugged beauty of Tasmania’s northern coastline. The whisky is influenced by the pristine rainwater and subtle sea spray of the region, adding a coastal essence to every dram.

Julie’s handcrafted touch on each bottle, from the distinctive square design to hand-labeled finishes, further highlights the distillery’s commitment to individuality. Fannys Bay embraces its identity as a “square peg in a shelf of round bottles,” offering whiskies that are as unique as the stories behind them.

Tasting Highlights

During my visit, I sampled a range of cask-strength whiskies, each offering a distinct expression of the distillery’s craftsmanship:

  • Shiraz (58% ABV) – Barrel 166

  • Chardonnay Cask (60% ABV) – Barrel 165

  • Bourbon (62% ABV) – Barrel 181

  • Port (63% ABV) – Barrel 148

  • Peated Pinot (62% ABV) – Barrel 167

Each whisky carried its own story, with bold flavours and a depth of character that spoke to the hands-on approach and unique Tasmanian terroir.

Plan Your Visit

While there are no formal tours, Fannys Bay Distillery welcomes visitors with warmth and offers the chance to explore their remarkable whiskies firsthand.

📍 Location: Northern Tasmania
🌐 Website: fannysbaydistillery.com.au

Highlights: Small-batch, handcrafted whiskies, distinctive coastal influence, and an inspiring story of innovation and tradition.

Fannys Bay Distillery is a must-visit for whisky lovers seeking something truly unique—where every sip captures the essence of Tasmania’s northern coast.

#FannysBayDistillery #TasmanianWhisky #SingleMaltWhisky #ExploreTasmania #WhiskyTasting #HandcraftedSpirits
@fannysbaydistillery
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Mark Modra
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