Description

The Remnant Whisky Co. The Golden Fleece Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky (500ml)

Volume: 500ml           ABV: 45%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Australia

The Whisky

The Remnant Whisky Co. “The Golden Fleece” is a landmark release in the Australian spirits scene, born from one of the most remarkable rescue missions in whisky history. Bottled at 45% ABV in a 500ml format, this 2025 iteration continues the legacy of salvaging elite spirit from the infamous Nant barrel scheme. This expression is a masterful marriage of 14 hand selected casks, consisting of a blend of ex-American Oak Bourbon and ex-Australian Sherry (Apera) barrels.

Inside information reveals that while this is a non-age statement release, the component whiskies are some of the oldest in the state, with the youngest spirit in the vatting being at least 10 years old. Curated by the legendary Peter Bignell (of Belgrove Distillery), the Golden Fleece was specifically designed to “change the conversation” around Tasmanian whisky—offering a premium, decade old profile at a price point that remains accessible to the everyday drinker rather than just the collector’s shelf.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Rich and incredibly inviting. You are greeted with mouthwatering aromas of butterscotch and white chocolate intertwined with bright blood orange and spiced Christmas pudding. A subtle maritime mineral tang sits in the background, complemented by sweet notes of Turkish delight and fresh raspberries.

Palate: The mouthfeel is luxurious and full-bodied. Initial layers of pistachio nougat, burnt fig, and Medjool dates lead the charge. As it sits on the palate, the bourbon influence emerges with creamy vanilla and toffee apple, while the Apera casks provide a deep, nutty richness reminiscent of dark chocolate and almond biscotti.

Finish: Long, warming, and nostalgic. The finish lingers with the sweetness of gingerbread and caramelised pears, eventually drying out with a final dusting of icing sugar and soft oak spice.

The Distillery

The Remnant Whisky Co. is not a traditional distillery but a “Phoenix” brand based in the Central Highlands of Tasmania. Founded by Peter Bignell and Phil Collidge, the company was formed to rescue over 300 barrels from a collapsed investment scheme, moving them to Bignell’s own bond stores at the Belgrove estate. A unique factual detail: the name “The Golden Fleece” is a clever, tongue-in-cheek reference to the investors who were nearly “fleeced” by the original scheme, as well as a nod to the Merino sheep that roam the Highlands (and feature on the hand-waxed bottle). By vatting these “remnant” barrels, they have restored faith in the Tasmanian industry, turning a historical misfortune into some of the most awarded spirit in the country.

Overall Review

The Golden Fleece is widely hailed as the best value-for-money Tasmanian whisky on the market, frequently described by critics as a “$250 spirit in a $109 bottle.” Reviewers globally praise its “ball-tearer” complexity and its incredible balance of age and vibrancy.