Tucked into the historic township of Yackandandah, Backwoods Distilling Co. is a family-run distillery crafting award-winning whisky and gin inspired by the landscapes and flavours of High Country Victoria.
Founded in 2017 by Bree and Leigh Attwood, Backwoods grew from a desire to create spirits that reflect the place they call home.
After many years living in the city, they returned to the region to raise their family and build a distillery that celebrates the character and nostalgia of country Australia.
Everything they create is centred around Australian ingredients and flavours.
Their whiskies are made using Australian-grown grains and matured in carefully selected barrels, while their approach to flavour is distinctly local.
For example, Backwoods uses native Red Gum to smoke their malt, bringing a subtle character reminiscent of campfires and the Australian bush.
Alongside their whisky program, Backwoods also produces a range of gins that highlight bright, fresh Australian botanicals.
From the local bushland botanicals in their High Country Gin to the newly released Blood Orange and Bush Honey Gin, the range reflects the same philosophy of crafting spirits that feel unmistakably Australian.
Despite its small scale, the distillery has gained national and international recognition.
Backwoods has been awarded Australia’s Best Single Malt Whisky (twice), Australia’s Best Rye Whisky, Australia’s Best Citrus Gin and was recently named Champion Victorian Distiller at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards.
Guests are welcome to enjoy a guided tasting, learn about the grains, barrels and botanicals behind each release, or simply settle in with a drink and soak up the relaxed High Country atmosphere.
For travellers exploring North East Victoria, a stop at Backwoods Distilling Co. offers a chance to experience Australian craft spirits at their source.
Backwoods Distilling Co. is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm in Yackandandah.