This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Australia’s Overeem whisky sold to Lark Distillery
By Becky PaskinOld Hobart Distillery, owner of the Overeem Tasmanian whisky brand, has been sold to Australian group Lark Distillery.
Old Hobart Distillery, along with the Overeem whisky brand, has been sold to Lark DistilleryThe deal, which is expected to close on Friday 17 January, will keep both Tasmanian companies as separate brands and entities.
Old Hobart Distillery, which was founded in 2005, currently produces around 8,000 bottles of whisky a year, most of which is matured in cut-down 100 litre port and Sherry casks.
Old Hobart owner Casey Overeem is semi-retiring after seven years with the group, although he will continue to work in quality control and as an Overeem brand ambassador.
His partner Jane Overeem will contiunue to work within the company as marketing manager for both Overeem and Lark, as well as brand ambassador for Overeem.
Troy Trewin, CEO of Lark Distillery who will also become CEO of Overeem Whisky, said in a statement: “Lark and Overeem Whisky will continue to be produced separately, and branding will remain the same. The joining of these two iconic whisky businesses will ensure strong future growth in the industry with many exciting ventures ahead.”
Bill and Lyn Lark, who founded Lark Distillery in 1992 but sold a majority stake to a syndicate of investors in July last year, will continue in their roles as Lark global brand ambassador and non-executive director respectively.
Overeem’s core portfolio includes a Sherry Matured Single Malt Whisky, Cask Strength Sherry Matured Single Malt Whisky, Port Matured Single Malt Whisky and Cask Strength Port Matured Single Malt Whisky.
Lark Distillery produces three single malt whiskies alongside a range of rum, brandy, liqueur, vodka and gin.
There are currently nine whisky distilleries operating in Tasmania.