Overview: Australia’s only dedicated rye whiskey distillery, The Gospel, has added Bonded Rye to its core range for the first time in six years. This release marks the first-ever Australian ‘Bottled-in-Bond’ whiskey meeting American standards, distilled in Melbourne and sourced from South Australia.
The Full Story
Co-founder Andrew Fitzgerald described the new release as the most deliberate whiskey produced by the brand. Launch events were held at the Ace Hotel Sydney in the Ace Suite, where Fitzgerald noted the liquid is meant to be enjoyed with friends while maintaining precision. The distillery was born from an obsession with great American whiskey, aiming to create a distinctly Australian version under strict standards.
Master Distiller Ian Thorn, Australia’s only accredited Master Distiller, has guided operations since the distillery’s early days. Fitzgerald stated the goal was to see what is possible if you take the strictest standard in American whiskey, and make it in their Melbourne distillery, with the best Australian rye, by the hands of Australia’s top distilling talent.
Production & Profile
The whiskey meets America’s strictest standard through specific production requirements: distilled in a single season, at a single distillery, by a single distiller, matured for more than four years, and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV). Production utilizes 100% Australian Rye grown by a single farmer in the Murray Mallee region of South Australia. The harsh climate yields small, dense grain renowned for distinct flavor.
Aromas include toffee apple, caraway, dark rye bread, fennel seed and creamy grain. The palate carries notes of pepper, chai spice, vanilla and a rich, sweet pastry note, finishing full-bodied with a lingering pepper heat.
Brand & Industry History
The Gospel was born from an obsession with great American whiskey and the desire to create a distinctly Australian version. It stands as Australia’s only dedicated rye whiskey distillery. Fitzgerald stated the goal was to see what is possible if you take the strictest standard in American whiskey, and make it in their Melbourne distillery, with the best Australian rye, by the hands of Australia’s top distilling talent.
What This Means
The result is a whiskey of extreme precision and provenance intended for those who take their whiskey as seriously as the makers do. Fitzgerald noted that while it packs a 50% ABV punch, it remains smooth on the palate and delicious both on ice and in alcohol-forward cocktails.
Consumer Takeaway
The Gospel Bonded Rye is available for RRP $140 from www.thegospelwhiskey.com and select independent retailers.
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