Overview: The Gospel Distillery has introduced a new core range expression designed to meet the rigorous standards of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. Launched on October 12, 2026, this rye whisky marks the first Australian release to adhere to these specific production requirements while utilizing grain sourced from Murray Mallee.
The Full Story
Co-founder Andrew Fitzgerald described the spirit as the most deliberate whiskey produced by the team, born from an obsession with great American whiskey and a desire to create a distinctly Australian version. Fitzgerald noted that the decision to create a bottled-in-bond whisky was driven by a wish to explore what is possible when taking the strictest standard in American whiskey and applying it within their Melbourne distillery using the best Australian rye.
Master distiller Ian Thorn created the expression using 100% un-malted Australian rye from a single farm in Murray Mallee, South Australia. The release is available directly from the distillery and at select independent retailers with an RRP of AU$140 (US$98). Tasting notes for the release include toffee apple, caraway, chai spices, vanilla, rye bread, and sweet pastry.
Fitzgerald emphasized that the result is a whisky of extreme precision and provenance intended for people who take their whiskey as seriously as the makers do. The bottled-in-bond label is only technically applicable to US spirits, but The Gospel Bonded Rye Whiskey meets the requirements for distilling, age and bottling strength.
Production & Profile
Master distiller Ian Thorn crafted the spirit using 100% un-malted Australian rye sourced from a single farm in Murray Mallee, South Australia. The production adheres to strict standards including single distiller, single season aging, and bottling at 50% ABV after a minimum of four years maturation.
Brand & Industry History
The Gospel Distillery was established in 2019 by engineers-turned-distillers Andrew Fitzgerald and Ben Bowles. Co-founder Andrew Fitzgerald noted the brand was born from an obsession with great American whiskey, aiming to create a distinctly Australian version within their Melbourne distillery.
What This Means
The release represents a significant milestone for the local industry, demonstrating what is possible when applying the strictest American standards to Australian ingredients and talent. Fitzgerald stated the result is a whisky of extreme precision and provenance intended for consumers who take their spirits seriously.
Consumer Takeaway
The Gospel Bonded Rye Whiskey is available directly from the distillery and at select independent retailers with an RRP of AU$140 (US$98). Drinkers seeking a single season, single distiller expression with specific flavor profiles including vanilla and rye bread can purchase this release.
Source: Read the original article
