Cape Byron Distillery is hidden in the rainforest of the Byron hinterlands, where you can indulge in their award-winning 'The Original' Australian Single Malt Whisky and Brookie's Gin. Their products arise from a collaboration between esteemed Scottish Master Distiller Jim McEwan (formerly Bruichladdich and Bowmore) and Byron local Eddie Brook. This distillery is a beacon of innovation, with thrilling new releases on the horizon, sparking anticipation and excitement among spirits enthusiasts.
Where is Cape Byron Distillery
The Cape Byron Distillery is located at 80 St Helena Rd, McLeods Shoot, NSW. The driveway is quite long, but don't worry as you cant take a wrong turn, the distillery visitor centre and bar is at the end of it, on the left. Advanced bookings for visiting and touring are required as it is not a large venue and the carpark is quite small.
Cape Byron Distillery History
Cape Byron Distillery has quickly established itself as a premier craft distillery in the Byron Bay region, thanks in part to the guidance and expertise of legendary master distiller Jim McEwan. The former Master Distiller of Bruichladdich, Jim's influence has been instrumental in shaping Cape Byron's approach to distilling, ensuring a commitment to traditional methods and unwavering quality. While Jim was the teacher, the students were the Brook Family, primarily Eddie Brook and his brother Will (though Will now runs Brookfarm).
They started off making gin on a single 2000 litre still under the guidance of Jim (who created the superb Botanist Gin for Bruichladdich), and distilling wort (unhopped beer) from Stone and Wood Brewery, to make whisky.
Cape Byron recently invested in state-of-the-art fermentation tanks with a massive 8,000-litre capacity (each) which enables them to take complete control of the fermentation process.
Complementing these new fermentation tanks is the addition of a 4,400-litre wash still, joining the distillery's original 2,000-litre still, which is now solely dedicated to the spirit run. This expansion not only increases Cape Byron's production capabilities (production capacity is around 350,000 litres a year) but also allows for greater experimentation and refinement of their whisky and gin.
In 2022 Cape Byron released their first two whiskies, The Original, and Chardonnay Cask (both of which we own and highly recommend). The Original (ex-Bourbon Cask matured) won Gold at 2023 San Francisco World Spirit Competition, and was Awarded Australia’s top whisky at the 2023 International SIP Awards, receiving the ‘Platinum Award’ and ‘Best of Class’. They're exceptionally good value (sub $150 and in 700ml bottles) and if you're familiar with Bruichladdich whisky, you'll probably notice a resemblance, as they've got some very similar flavour profiles (especially The Original).
The majority of Cape Byron whisky is matured in American Oak barrels ranging in size between 200 to 300 litres. The maturing whisky is housed in a specially constructed warehouse (aka "the Dunnage") built into the hillside, to try and keep the temperature consistent (given Byron’s temperature and humidity extremes).
Cape Byron is also dedicated to ensuring their operations do not contribute negatively to the environment. They harvest rainwater directly from their roof for use throughout the distillery and farm, and organic matter is composted on the farm, including all botanicals from gin production and the cellar door. Whisky production waste is treated on-site and broken down into liquid fertiliser which is then distributed throughout the farm. Cape Byron Distillery are B-Corp Certified.
Brookie's Gin
While Cape Byron's whisky offerings have garnered significant acclaim, the distillery first made a name for itself in the world of gin. Brookie's Gin is a reflection of the Northern Rivers region's rich botanical diversity, crafted with a carefully curated selection of native Australian botanicals, including Native Ginger, Cinnamon & Aniseed Myrtle, Lemon Myrtle, Banksia, and Macadamia. Many of the ingredients are sourced locally, including on Brookfarm, the Brook family's 96-acre macadamia farm and reclaimed rainforest, within which the distillery resides (see their rainforest map here). Roddy's favourite Brookie's is the Aged Mac, while Amanda is partial to the Davidson Plum Slow Gin (and Shirl the Pearl Cumquat Gin is also rather good in a Breakfast Martini) though, we're both big fans of the Brookie's Byron Dry.
Cape Byron Distillery - Makers of Brookies Gin and Gin Liqueurs. Roddy's favourite is the Aged Mac, while Amanda is partial to the Davidson Plum Slow Gin.
Cape Byron Distillery Tours and Tastings
Cape Byron has a mid-sized visitor centre, however, they are incredibly popular and can fill up quickly. To avoid disappointment, and ensure they can cater to your arrival, bookings for tours and tastings should be made at least 24 hours in advance via their website or by phoning them on (02) 6684 7961. The Cape Byron cellar door is open for sales Thursday to Sunday, 10:45am to 6:00pm.
Brookie's Rainforest Tour & Gin Tasting
Cape Byron Rainforest Tours and Gin Tastings are available Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, $40 per person (including tasting) or $20 per person for Non-Drinking Attendees (including under 18s). This tour and tasting experience is 1 hour and 45 minutes duration. Your tour kicks off on the balcony overlooking the rainforest and Brookfarm. You'll start with a Brookie's Byron gin and tonic on arrival (if you're tasting) and hear the Brook family story, before heading off on a guided walk through their regenerated subtropical rainforest, where you will learn more about the native ingredients used in Brookie's gin. After that, you'll receive a tutored tasting of Brookie's gins while learning about the art of distillation. Includes a 10% discount on Brookie's purchases in the cellar door following their tour. The rainforest walk is a lovely experience, though note, it is outside, so if it is raining, you will get wet! The balcony is a nice spot to dry off, however; the view is stunning, as are the cocktails.
Cape Byron Whisky Tour & Tasting
Cape Byron Whisky Tours are available on Fridays and Saturdays, $28 per person, 40 minutes duration, persons aged over 18 years only. Start your experience with a Cape Byron Whisky Highball on the balcony where you will learn how the Cape Byron Distillery was started, before receiving a guided tour of the production area, and barrel room (AKA "the Dunnage") where the casks are maturing. You'll then receive a tasting of Cape Byron New Make Spirit and Cape Byron Single Malt whiskies (2 core range, Original and Chardonnay) and any other limited release products available at the time. Attendees also receive $5 discount on a whisky bottle purchase.
Cape Byron Distillery Image Gallery
Click on the images below to view at full size and read the captions.
Getting Around Byron Bay
The public transport system around Byron Bay is practically non-existent and you definitely cannot catch a bus to Cape Byron Distillery. If you do not plan to drive yourself around distilleries (and we definitely do not recommend drink driving!) then your best options are Uber or Taxi services.
We've found it relatively easy to get an Uber during the day (before 5pm), including on weekends, however there is a considerable deficit of Uber drivers in the evenings. We recommend Byron Bay Taxis (02 6685 5008) if you can't find an Uber.
Other Things to Do in Byron Bay
For a full list of other distilleries you can visit near Byron, see our Spirited Guide to Byron Bay Distilleries.
Byron Bay has some amazing scenery and wildlife, so you may want to book yourself on a kayak tour, join a whale watching cruise, or perhaps go skydiving!
Cape Byron Lighthouse
Cape Byron Lighthouse is a picturesque landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world. Located at the easternmost point in Australia, it offers panoramic views of the stunning coastline and clear blue waters. The historic lighthouse, built in 1901, is not only beautiful, but also serves as a vital navigational aid for ships. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn more about its rich history, or simply enjoy the scenic walk leading up to the lighthouse and soak in the natural beauty. Note: it is $10 per vehicle per hour to park and there is limited parking available.
Minyon Falls
The magnificent Minyon Falls, located within the Nightcap National Park, is a perfect place to connect with nature. It boasts a spectacular 100-metre waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest, creating an idyllic and tranquil setting for visitors. The walking tracks through the rainforest offer the opportunity to encounter native wildlife and admire ancient trees, while the lookout point provides an unobstructed view of the falls. For adventurous souls, there is also an option to swim in the plunge pool at the base of the falls. Note: Minyon Falls is in the National Park so you cannot bring your Muffin.