If you’re looking for one of the world’s best distilleries, look no further than South Australia’s Riverland region.
For a second time, 23rd Street Distillery has been crowned Australian Distillery of the Year at the New York International Spirits Competition. The whole competition saw more than 1,400 entries from 39 countries, making it one of the world’s most respected for spirits.
The distillery’s most prestigious accolade was a Double Gold medal for its Australian Single Malt Whisky, which received 96 points and recorded the highest whisky score of the competition.
Head Distiller at 23rd Street Distillery, Paul Burnett, said the team were blown away by the results.
“This recognition is built on beautiful Australian ingredients, hard work and a constant drive to refine what we do,” said Paul.
“Our focus on maturing in a variety of oak types and finishing in old fortified barrels brings a depth and complexity that truly defines our whiskies.”
The team also received Gold medals and scores of 95 points for both its Australian Whisky and Violet Gin.
Brand Manager Julia Foley said the result was significant for both the distillery and the Australian whisky industry.
“It’s great to have that industry recognition for Australian whisky because it’s not something that happens very often,” Julia said.
“We’re really proud of the team. It’s great recognition for all the hard work happening behind the scenes, from the distillers in Renmark to the production team.”
Set inside a restored 1914 distillery, 23rd Street uses the Riverland’s warm climate, copper pot stills and locally grown Australian barley to create their whiskies.
Unlike Scotland’s cooler conditions, Renmark’s warm summers accelerate the interaction between the spirit and oak, helping develop richness while maintaining balance.
The competition-winning drop, 23rd Street Australian Single Malt Whisky, is actually crafted with barley grown on Kangaroo Island and matured for no less than three years in American oak ex-bourbon barrels.
“To be recognised alongside the world’s best is something we don’t take lightly,” Paul said.
“It’s a real milestone for the brand and a reminder that you can push boundaries while still keeping exceptional spirits within reach.”
Golden amber in colour, the whisky has inviting notes of toffee, fruit and subtle vanilla oak, and retails for $108.
It’s said to be smooth and slightly sweet, with flavours of citrus, apricot and malted milk, followed by butterscotch, oak and a gentle warmth that lingers.
“Time to raise a glass,” he said.
23rd Street Distillery
Where: Twentythird Street, Renmark
For more information, click here.
