This isn’t any sourdough starter. Hang 10 Distillery, the new kid on the block in Warriewood is turning heads with “The Goofy Barrel,” a whisky crafted from surplus bread.
Opened in May 2024 by Deon Rowe and Marine Raynard, Hang 10 was already a local fave for their gin. But this unexpected whisky is making waves in the whisky world.
A Warriewood distillery has surprised whisky experts with its first-ever release, a unique whisky made from surplus bread. Hang 10 Distillery, owned and operated by Deon Rowe and Marine Raynard, opened its doors in May 2024 and quickly became a local favourite for its gin. But their new whisky, “The Goofy Barrel,” is generating a lot of buzz.
From Leftover Loaves to Liquid Gold
Hang 10 Distillery is committed to sustainability. They use leftover bread from local bakeries to create their spirits, helping to reduce food waste. This commitment to the environment is a core part of their business, inspired by Deon Rowe’s passion for combating climate change and protecting the ocean. His idea came from watching documentaries about food waste in Australia and how unsold food could be turned into something new.
A Whisky Like No Other
The Goofy Barrel is a unique whisky made with sourdough bread and barley. It’s been aged for three years in an ex-bourbon barrel, giving it a smooth and sweet flavour with hints of honey, vanilla, and spice. Rowe explained that he chose this type of barrel to bring out the sweetness of the bourbon and American oak. Only 180 bottles of this limited-edition whisky were produced.
Experts Impressed by “Bread Whisky”
One whisky expert, who has a large global whisky collection, was shocked by the quality of The Goofy Barrel. He said it was unexpectedly good and expertly made, comparing it favourably to Scotch whiskies. Rowe himself described the whisky as having aromas of sweet honey, baking spices, and earthy notes, with flavours of crème caramel, honey, vanilla, and dandelion.
Riding the Waves of Challenge to Success
Opening the distillery was a long and challenging process for Rowe and Raynard. They struggled for two and a half years to get the necessary permissions, all while paying rent with no income. But they persevered, driven by their passion for creating high-quality, sustainable spirits.
Hang Ten and Hang Out at the Distillery
Now open to the public, Hang 10 Distillery offers a place for the community to enjoy its unique products in a relaxed, surf-inspired atmosphere. In addition to its range of spirits, the distillery offers tasting flights, cocktails, and food.
Published Date 09-Jan-2025
