South Australia's burgeoning distilling industry has once again proven its prowess on the national stage, securing eight of the 11 awards at the prestigious 2024 Tasting Australia Spirit Awards.

Among the standout achievements, the Fleurieu Distillery earned the title of Best Whisky for its Country to Coast #5, further cementing the region's reputation as a hub for exceptional craft spirits.

The Tasting Australia Spirit Awards, now in their seventh year, have grown in stature, with this year's competition attracting 215 entries from every state and territory across Australia for the first time. This includes 21 debut entrants, highlighting the increasing recognition and competitiveness of the awards.

South Australia's dominance was led by Imperial Measures Distilling, which claimed five awards, including the Premier’s Spirit Award and the title of Best Distiller. However, Fleurieu Distillery's victory in the whisky category is particularly noteworthy for the Fleurieu Peninsula, an area known for its commitment to quality and innovation in distilling.

The winning whisky, Country to Coast #5, exemplifies the craftsmanship and attention to detail that has come to define South Australian distilleries. This award is not just a win for Fleurieu Distillery but also a significant milestone for the region, reinforcing its status as a key player in the national and international spirits industry.

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, praised the state's distillers for their continued excellence. "Our state is renowned as a destination where eating and drinking well comes naturally – one where local distillers keep raising the bar," she said. "It is exciting to see our state secure eight of the 11 major awards this year, and we are proud to see the Tasting Australia Spirit Awards continuing to celebrate the industry and champion its growth."

Lead Judge and hospitality entrepreneur Ollie Margan also highlighted the high caliber of this year's entries, noting that the awards continue to reflect the depth and quality of Australian spirits. "Each year, we are so impressed by the products put forward – spirits that honor their origins while also standing proud in any international collection," Mr. Margan says.

The 2024 Tasting Australia Spirit Awards have once again showcased the excellence of South Australian distilleries, with Fleurieu Distillery's Best Whisky win marking a significant achievement for the Fleurieu Peninsula. The gold medal winners, including Country to Coast #5, will feature prominently in the events and drinks program of the 2025 Tasting Australia festival, set to return from May 2 to May 11.