Cape Byron Distillery launches inaugural whisky
Australian distillery Cape Byron is to debut its first single malt whisky with a series of exclusive masterclasses for the drinks trade.
The exclusive invite-only events will be held at the Cape Byron Distillery and at various locations in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney throughout August and September. The events will be hosted by co-founder and master distiller Jim McEwan, and co-founder and distiller Eddie Brook. McEwan brings 55 years of experience to the role, having previously worked at Islay-based distilleries Bowmore, Bruichladdich and Ardnahoe. McEwan has played a ‘pivotal role’ in the creation of Cape Byron’s new spirit, having brought his ‘wealth of experience’ to the B Corp-certified distillery located in the hinterland of Byron Bay on a 95-acre macadamia farm and 30- year-old regenerated subtropical rainforest. His numerous accolades within the drinks industry have earned him the moniker ‘The Cask Whisperer’. “Jim is such an inspiring figure in our industry,” commented Brook. “For Jim to be able to share not only the story of our distilling journey, but his wealth of knowledge, is something unmissable for the bartender community. “We’re so excited to finally share Cape Byron Single Malt Whisky with Australian whisky fans and the drinks industry to showcase the range in an intimate setting.” The pair will showcase four releases from the distillery including the Cape Byron ‘The Original’ Single Malt Whisky, and the exclusive limited edition Chardonnay Cask Single Malt Whisky. Guests joining the events will enjoy a signature Brookie’s G&T on arrival, and will have the privilege of tasting the distillery’s first release before it is available to the trade and general public from 1 September. Those seeking to purchase a bottle can join the waitlist located on the distillery’s website. Cape Byron ‘The Original’ Australian Single Malt Whisky rests at 47% ABV and has an RRP of AU$125 (US$86.91) per 700ml bottle. The limited edition Cape Byron Chardonnay Cask Australian Single Malt Whisky is priced at RRP AU$140 (US$97.34) and bottled at 48% ABV. The distillery made the short list for Green Company of the Year in The Drinks Business Green Awards 2020.
