Premium Tour and Lunch Package for 2

Authentic Tasmanian Spirits and Flavors: A Review of the Premium Tour and Lunch Package for Two

If you’re exploring Tasmania and want a taste of the island’s renowned craftsmanship in distilling and local produce, this Premium Tour and Lunch Package for Two at Old Kempton Distillery offers a well-rounded experience. Designed for those who appreciate good spirits, fine wine, and hearty yet sophisticated food, it promises a relaxing and informative outing during your visit.

We’ve seen travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the stunning setting, while some mention that the tour might feel a little light on the technical details. The price—around $210 for two—may seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusive spirits tasting, gourmet lunch, wine, and souvenirs, it can be quite good value for those seeking an authentic Tasmanian experience.

This tour is likely best suited for lovers of distilled spirits, local food, and scenic, intimate settings. It’s perfect if you want something more personal than a large group tour, and if you’re happy to enjoy a leisurely couple of hours sampling and learning at your own pace.

Key Points

• Intimate, private experience tailored for small groups or private bookings
• Includes four spirits tastings plus a bottle of Tasmanian wine
• Gourmet antipasto platter made with local produce for a true taste of Tasmania
• Learn about distillation and the property’s history from a knowledgeable guide
• Visit Dysart House and grounds, with some areas temporarily closed for safety upgrades
• Flexible with cancellation, offering a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point at Dysart House in Kempton

Your journey begins at the charming Dysart House, located at the Green Ponds Hotel on Main Street. This spot sets a relaxed tone—think historic charm combined with rustic Tasmanian hospitality. The meeting time is 11:00am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the three-hour experience, which includes guided tastings and a leisurely lunch.

The tour starts with a guided walk around Dysart House—though the bond store is currently closed for safety upgrades, so you won’t get to see every part of the distilling process. Still, the hosts make up for it with informative commentary on the distillation process and the property’s rich history, which adds layers of context to the tasting.

The Distillery and Grounds: A Close Look

The core of the experience is the Old Kempton Distillery tour. You’ll be guided through the grounds, stables, and the historic buildings, gaining insight into how they craft their spirits. The highlight is the guided tasting of four different spirits, allowing you to compare flavors and nuances.

While one reviewer mentioned that the guide seemed to have limited knowledge and the process was not shown in great detail, others appreciated the absorbing information and found the experience engaging. It’s worth noting that the tour’s main focus is on enjoyment and education, rather than a deep technical explanation.

Tasting and Food: Savouring Local Flavors

After the spirits, you’ll indulge in a gourmet antipasto platter made with local Tasmanian produce—think cheeses, cured meats, and fresh vegetables—that pair beautifully with the included bottle of wine. The pairing elevates the tasting experience, making it a true celebration of regional flavors.

As one reviewer noted, the lunch is plentiful and delicious, with generous servings that satisfy even hearty appetites. The wine, described as “expensive,” adds a touch of luxury to the meal, and you’re free to enjoy it during lunch or take a bottle home.

Post-Lunch Tastings at the Cask Lounge

Following lunch, there’s an opportunity to visit the Cask Lounge for more tastings. This relaxed space allows you to sample additional spirits, possibly discovering new favorites and lingering over your experience.

Souvenirs and Extras

If you’re inclined, you can purchase souvenirs, bottles of spirits, or other local products to take home, extending your taste of Tasmania beyond the trip.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are highly positive, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5. Many guests appreciated the informative guides and beautiful setting. Keith G. called it “an excellent tour” and praised the amazing tasting experience along with the generous lunch and wine.

However, there are some caveats. Tammy B. found the tour “seemingly unorganised” and felt the guide lacked detailed knowledge about the process. This highlights that while some guides excel at storytelling and engagement, others might deliver a more basic overview.

Despite this, most guests agree that the spirits tasting and lunch are the highlights, and the personalized, private nature of the tour makes it feel special. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially for travelers who may have changing plans.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $210 for two, this experience might seem a bit costly, but when you break down what’s included—four spirits tastings, lunch with wine, a guided tour, and souvenirs—it offers solid value for a memorable, quality experience. For lovers of Tasmanian spirits and local cuisine, the price reflects the quality and intimacy of the experience.

The tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s an opportunity to learn about the local distilling craft in a relaxed setting, making it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a deeper connection to Tasmania’s food and drink scene.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers interested in craft spirits, local food, and scenic small-group tours. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tastings, want to learn about Tasmanian distillation, and prefer a more intimate, private setting over large, busier tours.

It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a combination of education and indulgence. If you’re after a structured, formal distillery visit with technical details, this may feel a bit light, but if you value authentic stories, delicious food, and good company, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This Premium Tour and Lunch Package offers a genuine taste of Tasmania’s spirit and food culture without feeling rushed or commercialized. The combination of guided tastings, scenic grounds, local wine, and hearty food makes for a well-rounded experience that’s both relaxing and educational.

The personalized nature of the tour means you’re likely to leave with more than just souvenirs—perhaps a new appreciation for Tasmania’s craftmanship and a few new favorite spirits. While the guide’s knowledge level may vary, the overall atmosphere remains friendly, intimate, and rewarding.

For those seeking a delicious, authentic introduction to Tasmanian distilling and regional produce, this experience is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for visitors who value quality over quantity, enjoy guided tastings, and want to savor some of Tasmania’s best in a cozy, private setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including those with service animals. If you enjoy spirits and good food, you’ll find it enjoyable.

How long does the tour last?
Plan for around 3 hours, starting at 11:00am, which gives plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a fully guided visit, four spirits tastings, a gourmet antipasto platter, a bottle of Tasmanian wine, and access to additional tastings at the Cask Lounge.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it a private experience?
Yes, this is a private tour activity, meaning only your group will participate, enhancing the personalized feel.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, souvenirs and bottles of spirits are available for purchase if you want to take a piece of Tasmania home.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for a relaxed outdoor and indoor setting is recommended.

Are there any parts of the property currently closed?
Yes, the bond store is temporarily closed for safety upgrades, so some areas might not be accessible.

This tour offers a charming, well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s spirit and food scene, perfect for lovers of local craftsmanship and intimate, guided experiences.