Image Credit: Ondeen Farm and Storytellers Distillery
In a major move for South Australia’s craft spirits scene, acclaimed hospitality veteran Stuart “Chewy” Morrow has been appointed General Manager of Storytellers Distillery, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience and a global reputation for excellence.
Best known for his role as General Manager of Sydney’s iconic Baxter Inn, ranked #6 on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, Morrow has spent decades refining the art of good booze and great service across three continents.
Most recently, he played a pivotal role overseeing local staples 78 Degrees and Kangaroo Island Spirits during his time at Mighty Craft, before the company’s collapse earlier this year.
Now, Chewy is returning to the grassroots of storytelling and spirit-making, joining forces with Storytellers founder and head distiller Lachie Gunner at a crucial moment in the independent label’s journey.
“I know Lachie from back in our Sydney hospo days,” Chewy said.
“We share a lot of the same ideals. I’m looking forward to working alongside him and building something meaningful—especially after the tough year the brand’s had.”
In late 2023, Storytellers devastatingly lost its original Thebarton cellar door to fire. Though it was a massive blow, the team took it in stride, continuing the business while going full steam ahead with rescue efforts.
Chewy’s arrival signals a new era of focus and ambition, with plans to grow both locally and interstate.
As General Manager, he will oversee daily operations while shaping the brand’s sales and marketing direction. His appointment arrives as the distillery marks five years of business, with a core range of four gins distilled and bottled in-house.
For Gunner, bringing Chewy on board is a move grounded in trust and vision.
“Chewy’s had a massive influence on the industry over the years,” Gunner said. “Now that we’re finding our feet again post-fire, having him lead the team means we can move forward with real confidence.”
With its emphasis on authenticity and craft, where ‘every sip tells a story,’ Storytellers is poised to grow into its next chapter with one of the country’s most respected industry figures now at the helm.
Storytellers Distillery
For more information, click here.
More News
