Coopers has unveiled its new $70 million facility, which includes a whisky distillery, restaurant, bars, tasting room and microbrewery.

Located in Regency Park, South Australia, the site is adjacent to the existing brewery and was officially opened by South Australian Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC.

“This is one of the most exciting projects we’ve undertaken in the 162-year history of Coopers Brewery,” Managing Director Dr Tim Cooper said.

“Our team has been humbled by the public’s interest, excitement and support as this impressive building has taken shape.

“We wanted every aspect to be truly world-class and of the highest quality. It’s a significant, long-term investment by our family company and our vote of confidence in the future of Coopers and Australia’s manufacturing industry.

“Coopers is very proud to have created a highly unique and immersive experience that ultimately celebrates the very best of Australian beer. We look forward to welcoming visitors from across Australia and overseas into our new home.

“At the same time, our brewing and distilling team is focused on the opportunities that will emerge from the on-site microbrewery and whisky distillery.”

First Coopers whisky

Custom-made copper whisky stills fabricated in Scotland are situated at the heart of the new development, with underground stillage for 5000 whisky barrels.

The stills and associated equipment allow Coopers to produce whisky for the first time. The brewer already produces its own malt on site which will be used in the whisky process.

Given the extended timeline for spirit maturation, Coopers said it will likely be a few years before its first whisky is available for sale, but “it will be worth the wait”.

The hospitality offering

Coopers has appointed one of Australia’s most respected hospitality professionals, industry hall of famer Peter Morelli, as venue manager leading a 24-strong team.

With capacity to hold up to 400 people, the restaurant and bar facilities feature a beer-inspired menu and a range of Coopers beers on tap as well as special release craft beers from the microbrewery.

The restaurant features windows that look out at the impressive whisky stills and a new microbrewery that will allow Coopers to experiment with craft beer styles, which will be made available exclusively to visitors for tasting. The microbrewery will not impact on the operation of the existing modern brewery, which is responsible for the extensive portfolio of commercial beers, producing more than 90 million litres of beer annually.

The new centre will be open to the public from August 28 for tastings, meals and tours. For more information and to book a tour or lunch go to www.coopers.com.au