McHenry Distillery Wins at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards
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We are proud to share that McHenry Distillery has been awarded Gold for Best Australian Single Malt Whisky at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards for our 10-Year-Old French Oak release.
For a small, family-owned distillery on the edge of the Tasman Peninsula, this recognition means a great deal. It speaks not only to the quality of this single cask release, but to over a decade of patience, consistency and belief in doing things properly.
Award-Winning Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky
Crafted at our remote site in Port Arthur, Tasmania, our 10-Year-Old French Oak is a true Tasmanian single malt whisky. Distilled, matured and bottled entirely on site using our own pure spring water, it reflects the climate, landscape and philosophy that define McHenry Distillery.
From the judges:
“Very pleasant sweet caramel profile on the nose. The palate begins with an explosion of spiciness followed by a much calmer fruitiness. The finish captures a slight smoky note that fits well with the lingering notes from the palate.”
This is whisky shaped by time and environment. Ten full years in French oak have drawn out deep caramel notes, warming spice and a subtle wisp of smoke that lingers long after the final sip.
What Makes French Oak Whisky Special?
French oak is known for its tight grain structure and refined tannins. Compared to American oak, it contributes:
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Elegant spice
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Rich caramel and toffee character
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Subtle dried fruit notes
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A structured, lingering finish
For this 10-year maturation, French oak provided balance and depth without overpowering the spirit. The result is a premium Australian whisky that is both bold and composed.
A Gold Medal at the World Whiskies Awards
The World Whiskies Awards are among the most respected global whisky competitions, judged blind by industry experts. To receive Gold in the Australian single malt category places McHenry Distillery alongside the finest producers in the country.
Tasmania has become internationally recognised for world-class whisky production, and we are proud to contribute to that reputation as one of the state’s established distilleries.
A Sold-Out Release
Our current release of the 10-Year-Old French Oak has now sold out.
With limited stocks and over a decade of maturation behind each bottle, this was always going to be a rare expression. For those fortunate enough to secure one, it represents a moment in time — both for the cask and for McHenry Distillery.
Still Available: Signature French Oak Single Malt
While the 10-year release is no longer available, our Signature French Oak Single Malt Whisky continues the story. Crafted in the same spirit and matured in carefully selected French oak casks, it offers the same rich character and balance that define our award-winning style.
Our Signature French Oak remains available online and at our Port Arthur cellar door.
A Decade in the Making
At McHenry Distillery, we have always believed that great whisky cannot be rushed. From grain selection to fermentation, distillation and maturation, each step is guided by patience and attention to detail.
Winning Gold for our 10-Year-Old French Oak affirms what we have quietly worked toward for many years: creating distinctly Tasmanian single malt whisky that stands confidently on the world stage.
We thank our community, customers and supporters who continue to back a family-owned Tasmanian distillery committed to craft, provenance and quality.
Explore our range of award-winning Tasmanian whisky online or visit us in Port Arthur to experience it firsthand.