Waubs Harbour Distillery
Perched on the edge of the wild Tasman Sea in Bicheno, Waubs Harbour Distillery is one of Tasmania’s most coastal whisky producers. Founded by brothers Tim and Rob Polmear, alongside Tim’s wife Bec, the distillery is built in an old oyster hatchery where salt-laden winds and crashing waves now help shape their maturing spirit. With a clear focus on crafting world-class maritime whisky, Waubs Harbour combines precision, sustainability, and bold flavour innovation—anchored firmly in its windswept Tasmanian location.
What Stood Out:
The Yeast Cask Launch event was unlike any other whisky experience I’ve attended. We began the morning with a relaxed breakfast of French toast and pastries by local chef Tristan Punelle, designed to highlight the maple-syrup sweetness found in the new limited release whisky. From there, we joined Head Distiller Rob on a tour of the distillery, learning about the production process, coastal maturation techniques, and the experimental yeast cultivation that brought the Yeast Cask to life. The setting was intimate and deeply connected to place—waves crashing just metres away from casks ageing by the sea. Rob’s storytelling and passion for flavour experimentation made it a truly memorable visit.
Tasting Highlights:
During my visit, I had the chance to sample some of their incredible whiskies:
Waubs Original – a maritime-influenced core range release, matured in American and French oak with notes of salted toffee, butterscotch, and raisin.
Yeast Cask Limited Release – their latest innovation, with layers of maple syrup, tropical fruit, and a rich, soft finish thanks to Rob’s unique yeast process.
Rum Cask Special Release – a surprise dram on the day, offering a vibrant twist with tropical sweetness and coastal depth.
Each dram was a reflection of Waubs Harbour’s bold vision—crafted by the sea, shaped by passion, and unmistakably Tasmanian.
Plan Your Visit:
📍Location: 11 Waubs Esplanade, Bicheno, Tasmania
⏰Tours: Explore the distillery’s coastal setup, learn about their whisky process, and hear firsthand from the team about their experimental methods.
Cellar Door: Open for tastings and purchases, including limited releases and core range expressions.
🌐Website: waubsharbourwhisky.com
If you’re exploring the east coast of Tasmania, Waubs Harbour Distillery is a must-visit for any whisky lover looking to experience something truly unique and full of character.
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