Regional Development Victoria

Rutherglen takes regional spirits to the world

10/07/2025

Hand pouring whisky from barrel at Morris of Rutherglen

Over 6 generations of craftsmanship and tradition, Morris of Rutherglen has been making award winning fortified wines since 1859.

However it was a recent experiment to revive their dormant 1930s copper still that led to the creation of a premium single malt whisky and the reopening of the Morris Whisky Distillery in 2024.

We've helped support a $20 million redevelopment of the distillery has created a wine and whisky destination that celebrates more than 165 years of tradition while backing jobs and local industry.

The redevelopment created 30 jobs during construction and secured 12 existing roles, supporting an increase in whisky production and opening new export markets.

Image of outside entry to Morris of Rutherglen

Morris Whisky uses 100% locally sourced raw materials to produce its award-winning single malt whisky range – from Australian barley and Snowy Mountains water to glass bottles and packaging.

This ensures every element of production supports local industries.

Our investment in the distillery helped deliver new specialised equipment, including whisky stills and climate-controlled barrel sheds, each capable of storing 2,000 barrels.

Man on ladder inspecting barrels in Cellar Door at Morris of Rutherglen

At the heart of the major renovation was the expansion of the historic cellar door, originally designed by iconic Australian architect Robin Boyd, and built in 1972.

Built for the future yet honouring the past, the redevelopment also delivered a new tasting room, state-of-the-art bar and landscaped gardens.

Twelve months on from reopening the distillery, Morris Whisky has grown to become one of the top selling Australian single malt whisky products in Australia while also growing its exports.

Morris Whisky is now sold in seven countries, including the USA, Canada, France, Germany, the UK, New Zealand and Taiwan – raising glasses and spirits around the globe.

Image of wine barrels