Ballarat, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is gearing up to add more sparkle to its already renowned distillery scene with the opening of two new exciting establishments: Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits.
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These award-winning distilleries are set to tantalise your taste buds with a touch of history and a sip of local flavours.
Grainery Lane: A Taste of Elegance and Prohibition-Era Charm
Inspired by the grains used in their spirit-making process, Grainery Lane has opened its doors in one of Ballarat’s historic grain houses, promising a unique and unforgettable experience. This saloon-style bar evokes the glitz and glamour of Ballarat’s gold rush era, reminiscent of a fusion between “Peaky Blinders” and “The Great Gatsby.”
As you step inside Grainery Lane, you’ll be transported back in time. The establishment boasts an original bar top sourced from Chicago, spanning an entire wall, complemented by sparkling chandeliers, grand leather couches, and furniture reminiscent of the 1880s.
But the real charm of Grainery Lane lies behind a secret wall, where a hidden speakeasy awaits, reflecting the early 1920s prohibition era. This concealed bar adds an extra layer of mystique to your visit.
Grainery Lane opens with an impressive lineup of eight gins and two vodkas, all meticulously crafted on-site using locally sourced produce. At the heart of the venue, a magnificent 400-litre copper still takes centre stage, offering visitors a glimpse into the art of distillation.
For those seeking a culinary experience that complements the spirits, Executive Chef Scott Alsop has created a Southeast Asian and Latin-American share-style menu. Many of the dishes are infused with Grainery Lane’s own spirits, offering unique pairings like gin-infused oysters and vodka beetroot. The rest of the menu features delectable items cooked over coals, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
To engage enthusiasts, Grainery Lane will host regular “make your own gin” workshops, allowing patrons to customize their very own spirit.
Itinerant Spirits: A World-Class Distillery and Bar Celebrating Local Flavors
Located in the Ballarat Goods Shed, Itinerant Spirits is set to redefine the distillery experience. Co-founders Brad Wilson and Craig Ryan are determined to celebrate Ballarat’s local scene by crafting spirits using locally grown and malted grains and proofing them with local volcanic spring water.
The establishment will house a world-class distillery, a cocktail bar, a restaurant, and an event and masterclass space. Itinerant Spirits is set to become the go-to destination for those seeking top-quality whisky, gin, and vodka products with a local twist.
As Ballarat continues to solidify its reputation as a hub for connoisseurs of fine spirits, Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits are poised to make a significant mark on the city’s distillery landscape, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike. So, if you’re in the mood for a trip back in time or a taste of locally inspired spirits, these two distilleries are not to be missed.
