Description

Hellyers Road Aurora Australis Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky (200ml)

Volume: 200ml          ABV: 40%          Age: No Age Statement         Country: Australia

The Whisky

Bathe in the glow of the southern lights with Hellyers Road “Aurora Australis”. Named after the brilliant natural light show that dances over the Tasmanian night sky, this 700ml single malt serves as the “gateway” expression for the distillery. It is designed to be an approachable and vibrant introduction to the world of cool climate Tasmanian whisky.

Bottled at 40% ABV, Aurora Australis is matured primarily in American Oak (Ex-Bourbon) casks, though it retains a whisper of the distillery’s signature fortified wine influence. This maturation choice results in a spirit that is noticeably lighter and brighter than its older siblings, focusing on the purity of the Tasmanian malted barley. It is a “clean” and expressive dram that captures the essence of a new dawn for Hellyers Road as they refresh their core range for a global audience.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: A decadent and dessert-like opening. You are greeted by the rich, caramelized scent of crème brûlée and warm brioche, followed by a comforting layer of buttery shortbread and vanilla custard. As it opens, subtle hints of gingerbread and delicate white florals add a sophisticated balance to the sweetness.

Palate: The mouthfeel is silky and wonderfully “velvety.” It delivers a lush burst of ripe peaches and apricots swirling in a pool of vanilla cream. Mid-palate, the profile brightens with juicy pineapple and sweet malt, creating a tropical energy that remains light and approachable. A subtle ribbon of warming wood spice provides just enough structure to keep the sweetness from becoming cloying.

Finish: Medium and exceptionally “moreish.” The finish lingers with a final, sweet flourish of honeyed malt and orchard fruits, finally tapering off with a clean, zesty trail that leaves you ready for another sip.

The Distillery

Hellyers Road, based in Burnie, Tasmania, is a pioneer of the Australian whisky industry. A unique factual detail: Unlike many smaller craft distilleries that outsource their brewing, Hellyers Road was founded by a dairy cooperative and continues to do all its own milling, mashing, and brewing on-site. This agricultural heritage is reflected in the spirit’s exceptionally creamy, “buttery” DNA. The “Aurora Australis” celebrates the distillery’s remote location on the edge of the world, where the air is among the purest on Earth, allowing the spirit to age gracefully in the temperate, maritime climate of the Bass Strait.

Overall Review

The Hellyers Road Aurora Australis is globally reviewed as a “perfect introduction to Tasmania,” praised for its elegance and soft, fruity profile. Critics have lauded its “bright and layered character,” marking it as a mandatory purchase for those seeking a highly versatile, high quality daily dram that showcases the lighter side of the “Golden Age” of Australian whisky.