Tasmanians urged to get in the Christmas spirit by buying a local whisky

Those struggling to think of a Christmas present to get for their loved ones have been urged to buy a whisky or spirit from one of Tasmania’s many distilleries as a gift.

Tasmanian Whisky & Spirits Association President Kristy Lark said 2025 had been a stellar year for the state’s industry.

“Tasmania is home to some amazing spirits and it’s fantastic to see locals out there supporting us,” Ms Lark said.

“The association has been out there promoting our industry through things like Tas Whisky Week.

“We’ve just recently finished our annual AGM and conference, and there are lots of fun things happening.”

Ms Lark said Tasmanians were lucky to have such high-quality distilleries in their backyard.

“You have that opportunity to go out and see the people and where things are made.

“You get the opportunity to have that connection, which you don’t get with some of the larger international brands.”

Tasmania is predominantly known for its whisky and gin production.

But Ms Lark said the production of other spirits in the state was starting to emerge.

“We’ve got rum, we’ve got liqueurs, we’ve got vodka and we’ve got people utilising some of the native botanicals here.

“There’s something for everyone.”

Ms Lark said she expected the industry to grow in Tasmania.

“We’re focused on promoting Tasmania’s whisky to the world – creating that Tasmanian whisky category.

“We love to be involved and help new distilleries get up and running so they can create the premium products that we do down here in Tasmania.”

However, Tasmanian distillers are not immune to challenges.

“Excise is always a big one and finding the right team is sometimes a challenge too,” Ms Lark said.

“But we’re getting our name out there, and we’ve got the support of the government, so it’s becoming easier.”

Battery Point Distillery is one of more than 80 in Tasmania, having first started filling its barrels in 2017.

Head distiller Luke Lawrence said he was proud to be part of a thriving industry.

“The most pride I get is when I travel and get to talk to people about Tasmanian whisky,” Mr Lawrence said.

“I think what we’re doing here is world-class and it’s very special to be involved with that.”

Lark Distillery is considered a pioneer of the Tasmanian whisky industry and is credited with making the world aware of the spirits being produced in the state.

While he was pleased and excited about the reputation Tasmanian spirits had, Lark Distillery's head of hospitality, Dan Knight, said he was not surprised by the success.

“I think that anyone who sips Tasmanian whisky from any of the distilleries can taste the magic of this island in every single whisky that is made here,” Mr Knight said.

“The climate is second to none for making whisky.

“We have beautiful barley and amazing water.

“Everything you need is right here.”