Our First Release in Cape Byron Distillery’s Exclusive Single Cask Series
We're thrilled to introduce you to Tawny Cask – the first whisky in our new Single Cask Series. This release is especially meaningful to us at Cape Byron Distillery because it embodies everything we love about whisky-making: individuality, depth, and the artistry that comes from working with exceptional casks. Tawny Cask is our ode to the single cask approach, where each barrel tells a unique story and offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Aging in a Chardonnay Tawny Cask
For our Tawny Cask release, we chose a premium Chardonnay Tawny cask from Dutschke Wines in South Australia. Tawny casks are special because they bring out intense, layered flavors in the whisky. These casks have been used to age fortified wine, which infuses the wood with notes that lend richness and complexity to the whisky over time.
Here in Byron Bay, our coastal climate adds an extra dimension, allowing the whisky to mature in a unique environment influenced by the lush humidity and salty sea breeze. After three and a half years in the cask, we bottled Tawny Cask at cask strength – a robust 53.8% ABV – to keep its full character intact. With only 395 bottles available, this is a release as exclusive as it is exceptional.
A Tasting Journey: Layers of Richness and Flavour
When you pour a glass of Tawny Cask, you’re met with a luxurious aroma that hints at the rich experience to come. The first sip opens with a creamy hazelnut note that’s smooth and welcoming, setting the stage for a vibrant mid-palate. Here, candied orange adds brightness and contrast, balancing the richness. And just when you think it’s finished, the whisky rounds off with toffee and mocha, leaving a lingering warmth and depth. Each layer reveals something new, making it perfect for savouring slowly, whether you enjoy it neat or with a few drops of water to open up the flavours.
The Beauty of Single Cask Whiskies
One of the things that excites me most about the Single Cask Series is the individuality each release brings. When you’re working with a single cask, every detail matters – the type of wood, the time spent aging, the environment it ages in – each element contributes to a whisky that can never be exactly replicated. No two single cask releases are the same, and that’s what makes this series so special. We created the Single Cask Series to celebrate this uniqueness and to give you the chance to explore whisky that’s truly one of a kind.
Why a Tawny Cask?
Tawny casks are a bit of a hidden gem in the whisky world. The flavours they impart – rich, fruity, and full-bodied – are perfect for crafting a whisky that’s as layered as it is smooth. For Tawny Cask, we wanted to embrace this character while also infusing it with a distinctly Australian twist. The result is a whisky that honours tradition but carries a unique, modern character that reflects both the quality of our spirit and our roots here in Byron Bay.
An Exclusive Release for True Whisky Lovers
With only 395 bottles in this release, Tawny Cask is as rare as it is remarkable. For us, this debut in the Single Cask Series represents a milestone in our journey, and we’re proud to share it with whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship behind every bottle. Whether you’re a long-time whisky connoisseur or someone who’s just beginning to explore, Tawny Cask offers an experience that’s both indulgent and deeply rewarding.
Tawny Cask isn’t just a whisky; it’s a celebration of what makes single cask releases so unique. If you’re looking to experience something rare, crafted with care, and brimming with character, we invite you to discover Tawny Cask – a release that embodies the spirit of Cape Byron Distillery in every drop.
