Nestled in the quaint village of Roudham in Norfolk, England, is a distillery that is making waves in the world of whisky: the English Whisky Co. Established in 2006, the English Whisky Co is the brainchild of Andrew Nelstrop, a former farmer who had a passion for whisky making. The distillery is distinguished as England’s oldest registered whisky distillery, and has since garnered international acclaim for its exceptional products.
the english whisky co prides itself on its commitment to traditional methods of whisky production, focusing on quality over quantity. The distillery sources its barley from local farms in Norfolk, where it is grown with care and attention to ensure the highest quality grain. The barley is then malted on-site in the distillery’s traditional floor malting room, where it is turned by hand and gently dried over a peat fire – a process that imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the whisky.
One of the unique aspects of the English Whisky Co is its dedication to using only the finest oak casks for maturing its whisky. The distillery sources its casks from a variety of reputable cooperages, including American oak barrels that previously held bourbon, and European oak sherry casks. The whisky is matured in these casks for a minimum of three years, allowing it to develop its complex flavors and aromas.
the english whisky co offers a range of expressions to suit every palate, from its classic single malt whisky to its innovative experimental releases. One of the distillery’s flagship products is its Chapter 14 Single Malt, a rich and full-bodied whisky with notes of honey, vanilla, and oak. For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, the distillery also offers limited edition releases such as its peated single malt and triple distilled whisky.
In addition to its core range of whiskies, the English Whisky Co also produces a selection of liqueurs and spirits that showcase the versatility of its distilling expertise. The distillery’s award-winning English Whisky Liqueur is a sweet and indulgent treat that combines the flavors of honey, spices, and citrus fruits with a splash of whisky. For those looking for something a bit stronger, the distillery also produces a range of gins and vodkas that showcase the same attention to detail and craftsmanship as its whiskies.
Beyond its exceptional products, the English Whisky Co is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The distillery is powered by renewable energy, including solar panels and a biomass boiler that uses woodchip sourced from local woodlands. In addition, the distillery works closely with local farmers to minimize its impact on the surrounding environment and support the local community.
Visitors to the English Whisky Co can experience the distillery’s unique blend of tradition and innovation firsthand with a guided tour and tasting experience. The distillery offers tours that take guests through every step of the whisky making process, from malting and mashing to fermentation and distillation. Visitors can also enjoy a tasting session where they can sample a selection of the distillery’s finest whiskies and spirits, guided by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about sharing their love of whisky.
In conclusion, the English Whisky Co is a true gem in the world of whisky, offering a taste of tradition and craftsmanship unlike any other. From its dedication to quality ingredients and traditional methods, to its innovative approach to creating new and exciting products, the distillery embodies the spirit of English whisky making. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to the English Whisky Co is sure to be a memorable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of whisky making. Cheers to the English Whisky Co – a distillery that is truly raising the bar for English whisky.