Maltstock Down Under will make its Australian debut in Tasmania from May 15–17, 2026, marking the first time in the event’s 16-year history that the community-led whisky gathering has been held outside Europe. The not-for-profit event will take place at Ratho Farm in Tasmania’s Central Highlands, bringing together up to 100 whisky enthusiasts from Australia and overseas.
Originally founded in the Netherlands, Maltstock has built a global reputation as a grassroots whisky gathering centered on sharing, education, and connection. Unlike traditional whisky festivals, Maltstock is not a trade show.
The event operates on a not-for-profit basis, with ticket pricing set to cover accommodation, food, logistics, and event delivery.
What Will Whisky Look Like in 2027? Voices from Whisky Live Paris
READ THE STORYAttendees bring their own whiskies to share, participate in guided and blind tasting sessions, attend informal presentations, visit distilleries, and spend evenings around a bonfire with local food, live music, and conversation.
Participating partner brands and distilleries include Sullivans Cove Distillery, Overeem Distillery, Ardnamurchan, Lawrenny Distillery, Spring Bay Distillery, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Thomson Whisky, New Zealand Whisky Collection, and Belgrove Distillery, among others. Additional brands are expected to be announced.
The three-day program includes on-site accommodation, distillery visits across Tasmania, shared meals featuring local Tasmanian produce, and transfers from Hobart airport. Attendance is capped at 100 people.
Trending Content
David Ligoff, founder of Maltstock Down Under, said the not-for-profit structure is central to the experience. “Maltstock has always been about people first and whisky second,” Ligoff said. “Keeping it not-for-profit ensures the focus stays on sharing, learning, and bringing whisky lovers together in a meaningful way. Tasmania felt like the perfect place to introduce that ethos to Australia.”
Tasmania has emerged as one of the world’s most respected whisky-producing regions in recent years. Sullivans Cove’s French Oak Cask was named World’s Best Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards in 2014, a result that drew significant international attention to the island’s distilling scene. The state is now home to more than 40 distilleries.
A limited number of tickets remain available, with a $180 (USD) deposit securing a place. Only 60 spots remain open, and early booking is recommended.
Maltstock Down Under is supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania.
