There’s more to drinking whisky than simply pouring a dram and raising a glass. Every drop tells a story — of the grain, the water, the oak, and the land it came from.
At Clyde Mill Distillery in Bothwell, Tasmania, whisky isn’t just a drink; it’s a ritual of appreciation — a true Tasmanian whisky experience.
The stunning part of the world we call home is blessed with a unique climate that provides not only definite seasonal changes but also very rapid and extreme changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure and humidity. This may be termed “dynamic ageing” and this is one of the aspects of our terroir that helps create a whisky of rare and remarkable complexity.
Whether you’re new to the dram or a seasoned connoisseur, learning to taste whisky like a pro will help you uncover layers of flavour and aroma you’ve never noticed before.
A proper tasting begins with the right glass. At Clyde Mill, guests are served in traditional Scottish Glencairn whisky tasting glasses that capture and concentrate the aromas — essential for identifying character.
At Clyde Mill we use no artificial colourings so all colour is derived from the maturation casks. Expect subtle tannins, rich and complex sweet, savoury, herbal and floral notes and highlights perfectly married with the underlying malt.
The natural hue of each whisky comes solely from its cask. Ours are carefully selected and re-coopered American and European oak casks previously used for bourbon, port and sherry, which lend Highland-style warmth.
Pro Tip: Swirl lightly and watch the “legs” form — they hint at texture and body.
Bring the glass slowly to your nose and take gentle sniffs — whisky vapours can be strong.
Typical aromas you might find include:
Clyde Mill’s clean, pure Highland air and Clyde River water influence every stage of distilling, creating a distinctive bouquet.
Pro Tip: Shift your nose to one side of the rim — you’ll often uncover new notes.
Take a small sip and let the whisky coat your tongue before swallowing. The first sip acclimatises your palate; the second reveals the full journey:
| Tongue Area | Flavour Note |
| Front | Sweetness – honey, malt |
| Mid-palate | Spice, fruit, smoke or nuttiness |
| Finish | Warmth, oak depth, lingering sweetness |
Clyde Mill whiskies strike a balance between creamy malt sweetness and subtle oak spice — a hallmark of Highland-style maturation.
Pro Tip: the addition of a little water is especially advised with cask strength expressions as this often adds sweetness and texture to the dram.
The finish is where a great whisky truly shines.
Guests at Clyde Mill often describe the finish as smooth, honeyed and gently peppery — a reflection of Bothwell’s pristine environment and natural cask maturation.
Pro Tip: After each sip, breathe out gently through your nose to catch the final aromatic notes.
Whisky tasting is about appreciation, not speed. At the Clyde Mill Cellar Door, guests are encouraged to take their time, ask questions and pair their dram with a local cheese board or a dish from the Clyde Mill Distillery & Kitchen.
If you’re travelling through Bothwell or the Central Highlands, turn your tasting into a Highland Whisky Trail by visiting Old Kempton and Lark Distilleries nearby.
Remember, drink responsibly.
Put these Pro Tips in action! Book a Tasting Experience at Clyde Mill Distillery, Bothwell, Tasmania.
There’s more to drinking whisky than simply pouring a dram
We’re thrilled to share this inspiring feature from The Mercury’s
By Simon McGuire from Tasmanian Country 04 Sep 2025 Nant
