23rd Street Distillery

Imagine a place where century-old traditions meet modern art and a bold craft approach. 23rd Street Distillery is a unique site in the town of Renmark that has transformed a historic 1914 building into a true temple of premium spirits. Located in the heart of Australia, this attraction draws travelers with its aesthetics and the exceptional quality of its gin, vodka, and brandy.

23rd Street Distillery. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The facility occupies the site of the former Renmano winery, the country's first cooperative winery. Following a careful restoration by Bickford’s Group, massive copper stills are back in operation here. One of the main highlights of the venue is the designer labels created by renowned Australian artists, making every bottle a work of art.

Beyond the production halls, the distillery offers guests a magnificent tasting room and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace. It is more than just a factory; it's a cultural space where the flavors of the Riverland region are revealed in every sip of a signature cocktail or a glass of famous brandy.

For more details before your visit or to book a table at the restaurant, you can use the following contact information:

The main magnet for visitors is undoubtedly the tasting flights. For just 15 AUD, you can try the Signature Gin, the unusual Violet Gin, which changes color when tonic is added, or barrel-aged brandy. Be sure to join a tour: you'll be shown the majestic century-old copper stills and the "inner sanctum"—the barrel hall where the legendary Black Bottle Brandy matures.

After the tasting, head over to the distillery's restaurant. It serves authentic Italian pizza from a wood-fired oven, juicy burgers, and steaks. Interestingly, chefs add their own brandy or ale to some dishes to provide a unique flavor. The atmosphere invites long relaxation: you can settle on the spacious terrace with a cocktail or a cup of aromatic coffee.

Don't forget to pay attention to the interior details and examine the labels on the bottles in the flagship store—each tells its own story through the graphics of contemporary artists. This is a great place to buy an exclusive gift or simply enjoy industrial design aesthetics combined with rural hospitality.

The journey to the 23rd Street Distillery is a pleasant experience in itself, taking you through the scenic landscapes of South Australia. The facility is located at the intersection of Twentythird St and Renmark Avenue. If you are driving from Adelaide, the trip takes about 3 hours (approximately 260 km) via the Sturt Highway (B80). Convenient parking is available for travelers right at the entrance.

For those who prefer public transport, Premier Stateliner buses run regularly from Adelaide to the town of Renmark. Upon arrival at the bus station, you can use local taxi services or take a short walk, as the town center is quite compact. The region is also popular with caravanning enthusiasts and those enjoying boat trips on the Murray River.

The history of this site dates back to 1914, when the building was constructed as the Renmano winery. This was a landmark event for the region: the first winery in Australia owned by a cooperative of local farmers. For decades, the site was a hive of activity, and the distillery's products brought fame to the fertile Riverland.

Unfortunately, in the early 2000s, due to severe drought and economic shifts, production was halted, and the historic workshops remained empty for more than ten years. A second life for the building began in 2014 when it was acquired by the family-owned Bickford’s Group. The new owners treated the heritage with great respect, preserving the spirit of the past while creating a modern art space.

After a two-year large-scale restoration, on September 23, 2016, the distillery reopened its doors. Today, restored century-old copper stills harmoniously coexist with a stylish interior decorated with works by Australian artists. This place has become a symbol of the revival of traditions in a new, craft interpretation.

To leisurely enjoy the atmosphere and appreciate the craftsmanship of local distillers, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. This is quite enough time to participate in a tasting and peek into the barrel hall where spirits are aged.

If you are planning a full lunch or dinner at the local restaurant, you should budget about 4 hours in your schedule. The venue's popularity among tourists and locals alike suggests a relaxed pace, perfect for experiencing the hospitality of the Riverland region.

The distillery is open to guests daily, but the operating hours vary depending on the day of the week. From Monday to Wednesday and on Sunday, the doors are open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the establishment operates on an extended schedule—from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it an excellent spot for dinner.

Please note that operating hours may change on public holidays, so it is recommended to check the information on the official website or verify the details by phone before visiting.

A visit to the distillery can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in the town. A stroll around the area will allow you to dive deeper into the history of the Murray River basin settlement and enjoy the charm of provincial Australia.