5 November 2013

Whisky Insiders Interview - Casey Overeem



Company:
Old Hobart Distillery

Job:
Director

Website:
oldhobartdistillery.com



How long have you been working in the whisky industry?
Around eight years, although I’ve been experimenting for over 20 years.
 
What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
The biggest career highlight was to be awarded Australia’s Best Whisky at the World of Whisky Awards 2012/13, and to achieve a Liquid Gold Award ‘95 points’ with Jim Murray in the same year.
 
Can you remember your first dram, and indeed what it was?
I'm afraid not. It was probably something pretty rough in the 70’s and it probably got something started in my mind thinking ‘I can do better than this’.
 
What does whisky mean to you?
It means a great deal in the social part of life, it is a great source of enjoyment if taken in moderation, on the other hand it can be wasted through over indulgence.
 
Where would you like to see yourself in five year’s time?
A simple answer, retired and an ambassador for Tasmanian whisky and Overeem Single Malt in particular.
 
What was your last dram?
A 30 Year Old Caol Ila bottled as the 500th bottling by Van Wees in the Netherlands. An exceptional drop!
 
Do you have a favourite whisky and food pairing combination?
An Overeem Port Cask Matured with a medium/rare heavily charred steak.
 
What’s your favourite time and place to enjoy a dram?
In winter, after a couple of hours fishing, by the open fire at the shack.
 
What do you think is going to be the next big thing on the whisky horizon?
I think boutique distilleries are going to play a significant role in quality single malt whiskies and I believe that Australia and in particular, Tasmania will be a big thing on the world stage.
 
What’s the one dram you couldn’t live without?
Too hard. Next question please.
 
Many thanks to Casey Overeem. Who will be the next Whisky Insider? Click back soon to find out!