Australia’s Little Lon Distilling Co. has launched the first whiskey to be distilled and aged legally in Melbourne’s CBD.
The Little Lon Distilling Co. has a unique history, tucked away in a tiny heritage-listed cottage in the north-east corner of the city, in the heart of the former redlight district. It was once the site of a brothel, then a speakeasy, and in 2018 it became home to Melbourne’s only CBD distillery.
Nestled between city towers, restaurants and the theatre district, the Little Lon Distilling Co. began producing gin six years ago and was destined to make a host of dark spirits – but there was no space to age the barrels.
During Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns, Little Lon Distilling Co. was quietly distilling wash (the fermented liquid used for distillation, brewed by Bricklane Brewing), and filling casks to be locked away for the next two years.
The ageing process took place in the confines of Cell 13 of the Watch House at the Old Melbourne Gaol, a site steeped in criminal history and now a poignant reminder of Melbourne’s shadowy and violent past.
Little Lon Whiskey, matured under optimal conditions, absorbed the essence of its surroundings and developed a character that is unique to the city’s climate.
“We’re thrilled to introduce Melbourne’s first CBD-made and aged single malt whiskey. A distillery known for its gin, this is a first-time exploration into the world of dark spirits,” says Brad Wilson, founder of Little Lon Distilling Co.
“Crafted with care in a cottage that has shared many visitors with Old Melbourne Goal, there was a natural synergy – there would have been a well-worn path between the two places.”
Representing a rare fusion of heritage and modern craft distilling, Little Lon Whiskey’s aroma includes burnt honey, apples, and hints of coffee and fried banana. On the palate, you’ll find a strong oak profile, buttery barley texture, and notes of sultanas, chocolate, and rye bread, rounded out by warming spices.
The finish is long and complex, featuring dark chocolate, toasted oak, and a touch of black pepper, complemented by hazelnut and a lingering sweetness of dark brown sugar.
Only 500 bottles of this release are available. Click here for more info.
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