Next Generation Distillers
Our Story
Noticing the domination of 'big alcohol' in the Australian spirits market and an opportunity for higher quality, more bespoke spirits, Earp Distilling Co. was founded by brothers Michael and Richard Earp in late 2019.
Embracing modern distilling technology we produce high quality spirits with speed, accuracy, control and consistency.
From a passion for the creative and experiential, Earp Distilling Co. was established to learn from centuries of distillers experiences, to create a spirit brand and distillery synonymous with quality, sustainability and adventure.
An Ocean Voyage
In The Beginning
Our story begun in the September of 1883 on board the cargo ship SS Coniston as it steamed into King George's Sound, Western Australia. On advice from his doctor, George Frederick Earp had departed London seeking the warmth of the Australian climate over another cold English winter.
Settling in Newcastle, George quickly established himself as an import merchant and within only a couple of years the Port of Newcastle was a constant stream of merchandise including vinegar, dried milk, pickles and matches.
An early step was to partner with Mr W.J Gillam to form Earp Gillam & Co. His father, George William Earp, was appointed as Director of Exports from his hometown in London while his brother Frank joined as Partner.
The Hunter Region
Pioneer Years
After reports of coal in the Hunter Region, a shaft was opened in 1886 with small quantities of coal sold locally. Realising greater capital would be required, Earp Gillam & Co. were entrusted with operations of the colliery with a registered office in Bond Street, Newcastle East. This building still stands with Earp Gillam & Co. cast into the facade of the building.
The company began the new century as Earp Brothers & Co., with a team of 26 rising to 34 within a year. Coal sales continued, as did imported materials such as produce, commodities and building materials.
An automotive repair shop called The City Garage was opened in 1914.
The End of An Era
WWI and Post War
World War I impacted both the family and the business. Mr and Mrs Charles Earp suffered a grievous loss when their son Reggie was killed in France. Serving as a gunner in the 10th Field Artillery Brigade, Reggie was struck by shrapnel while operating his gun in action.
After the war, the decision was made to end wholesale grocery distribution, followed by the upgrade of The City Garage to the title of Earp's Motors Ltd. The sale of Model T Ford cars indicated a profitable future, and the produce store closed in April 1930. The end of the first 50 years of the company was also the end of an era.
Improvement in business was evident in 1934 with significant growth in the main product lines of plaster and cement. Arnott's biscuit distribution was a useful line that continued on after the end of the produce business.
To conform with the Companies Act 1936, Earp Brothers & Co Ltd. became a proprietary company on June 22nd 1937, adding Pty. to its name before the word Limited.
Bringing In The 21st Century
WWII and Regrowth
The impacts of World War 2 were felt by the company with Mr Roderick Earp joining the Army. Business was maintained but expansion halted.
Upon his return, Roderick was made Managing Director. A redirection towards hardware and ceramic tiles saw building products flowing through the store, with significant growth in this area.
Arnott's biscuit distribution actually lasted until 1963, a period spanning more than 75 years.
In the second half of the century a shortage of manufactured goods led to the decision to import substantial quantities of ceramic tiles, baths and bathroom furniture.
As a number of legacy Earp business' faded away, the importation of high quality tiles and bathroom furniture flourished.
Michael & Richard Earp took over as Managing Directors from their father John and uncle Tony, focusing the company on the procurement and supply of the worlds highest quality tile and stone materials for Australian homeowners and construction professionals.
New Beginnings
Diversifying To Distilling
Having built one of Australia's most respected tile brands with designer showrooms across the East Coast of Australia, and becoming the country's only green certified tile supplier, the only question was 'what's next?'.
Having journeyed to Tasmania to immerse himself in the whisky distilling process, Michael returned impassioned by distilling. Approaching Richard to discuss the potential to open a small distillery in Newcastle, Richard immediately agreed and plans were put in place to craft a distillery unlike any other.
Today the two businesses operate in parallel, maintaining family ownership at their core while building an amazingly talented team to push the boundaries in both industries.
Earp Distilling Co. continues to grow rapidly, with new spirits, events and experiences just around the corner!
Why You Won't See Copper
Modern Distilling
When initial plans were drawn for the distillery, our team had the chance to do things a little differently. We wanted to question the norms of distilling and in true Earp style have never been afraid to ask why done is done.
Unlike traditional stills our next generation equipment is made from high-quality stainless steel and is destined to outlast copper counterparts by decades. Our stills are designed to be run in two modes - pot still or column still mode, meaning we can produce any kind of spirit imaginable including whisky, rum, brandy, gin, vodka and liqueurs.
Our stills and fermenters have been carefully designed and assembled in the Netherlands using the highest quality materials and electrical components. Our stills and fermenters are more than just pieces of equipment, they are an extension of our vision for a new normal in the distilling world, where modern technology is embraced, but tradition and heritage is not forgotten.