Ian Schmidt is a prominent figure in South Australia's craft distilling industry. He is the distiller at Tin Shed Distilling Co., which produces the Iniquity range of whiskies. Ian has been with Tin Shed Distilling Co. since its inception in July 2013, following his earlier experience as a manager at Southern Coast Distillers. His career in distilling spans over two decades, and he has contributed significantly to the growth of the Australian craft whisky scene.
Tin Shed Distilling Co., co-founded by Ian and Vic Orlow, is known for its innovative and distinctive whiskies, crafted using unique methods such as smoking barley with eucalyptus wood and using locally sourced peat. Their products stand out for their robust flavors, described by Ian as "juicier, fatter, oiler" due to their short, fat still design. Ian emphasizes the importance of using Australian ingredients and experimenting with wine casks for maturation.
The distillery also prioritizes sustainability and innovation in packaging, collaborating with Spectrum Packaging to develop environmentally friendly designs. Despite challenges like extreme temperatures affecting fermentation, Ian and his team have adapted creatively, including relocating operations to the cooler Adelaide Hills to improve production conditions.
Ian's passion for distilling reflects in Tin Shed's ethos of collaboration within the industry and commitment to quality. The company produces distinctive premium whiskies like "Flustercluck," showcasing their humor and dedication to craftsmanship.
