History

Corio Distillery was founded in the 1920s by Distillers Company Limited (now Diageo). The official opening of the original building in Geelong took place in March 1929, and it was run by manager William H. Ross. The first product was Burnett’s Dry Gin, a local variant of a British gin. Whisky production followed later; Corio Whisky came to light around 1933/1934 after at least five years aging in oak casks. In 1938 Corio produced about 12 million gallons of Corio Whiskey and 5 million gallons of gin, and the distillery became known as the largest in the southern hemisphere.

1956 Corio 5 Star whiskey was launched and gained great popularity; the first four years it sold 8.5 million bottles in Australia and abroad. During the 1970s and 1980s there were challenges such as high duties and changing perceptions of a local product, and in 1983 Corio Distillery closed.

Today the site lies in the Geelong area within the grounds of the former distillery and functions as a storage facility. The building is described as a place of historical significance and as a storage area. The distillery's physical storage capacity comprised a large four-story warehouse building and around 1.3 million gallons of spirits; there were also 60-foot-high hoppers for storage of 120,000 bushels, connected to a rail line by a conveyor belt.

Currently, the Corio Distillery area is a premier storage and warehousing facility in Geelong, located only minutes from Spirit of Tasmania docks and close to Melbourne.

Production/Manufacturing

Historically the distillery had areas for grain, mash and stills. The building was constructed with terracotta walls, fibrocement roof and a strong steel frame, which was designed to minimize heat and dust and thus ensure conditions for whisky production. The whisky matured in oak barrels for at least five years as part of the historical process. The storage design was therefore central to ensuring a stable climate during maturation.

Products/Whisky Series

Historically Corio Whisky and Corio 5 Star Whisky as well as Burnett’s Dry Gin were produced. Burnett’s Dry Gin was the first product in 1929. According to history, Corio Whisky and Corio 5 Star whisky were particularly popular in Australia and internationally, and Corio 5 Star sold significantly in the early years.

Visit/Experiences

Today Corio Distillery operates as a storage and logistics complex in Geelong, within the former distillery grounds. The facilities offer naturally climate-controlled storage and a range of logistics services. The on-site office facilities include air-conditioning, computer-connected workstations, meeting rooms, kitchen facilities and other facilities. Business access includes contact details and the possibility of a tour via the associated contact.

Philosophy

Corio Distillery focuses on naturally climate-controlled storage and comprehensive logistics solutions. The benefits of the location include reduced logistics costs and proximity to Spirit of Tasmania, facilitating distribution. End-to-end supply chain management, stock control, container handling, shrink wrapping, as well as an Australian distribution network and on-site office facilities and kitchens are offered.