When one thinks of whisky, Scotland and Ireland are likely the first countries that come to mind. However, in recent years, England has been making a name for itself in the world of whisky production, thanks in large part to distilleries like the English Whisky Co.
Founded in 2006, the English Whisky Co is England’s first whisky distillery in over a century. Located in the picturesque village of Roudham in Norfolk, the distillery is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century farm building. The company was founded by Andrew Nelstrop, whose family has been farming in Norfolk for over 600 years. It was Andrew’s dream to revive the tradition of whisky production in England, and thus the English Whisky Co was born.
From the beginning, the English Whisky Co set out to create high-quality, handcrafted whiskies that would rival those from Scotland and Ireland. Using locally sourced ingredients and traditional production methods, the company has quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the finest whiskies in England.
One of the things that sets the English Whisky Co apart from its competitors is its commitment to using only the finest ingredients. The distillery sources its barley from local farms, ensuring that only the highest quality grain goes into each batch of whisky. In addition, the water used in the production process comes from the Breckland aquifer, a natural water source that runs beneath the distillery. This pure, mineral-rich water adds a unique depth of flavor to the whiskies produced by the English Whisky Co.
The production process at the English Whisky Co is a labor of love, with each batch of whisky meticulously crafted by hand. The barley is malted on-site, then mashed, fermented, and distilled using traditional methods. The whisky is then aged in carefully selected oak casks, where it develops its rich, complex flavors over time. The result is a range of whiskies that are as unique as they are delicious.
One of the flagship whiskies produced by the English Whisky Co is the Chapter 14, a single malt whisky that has won numerous awards for its exceptional quality. This whisky is aged for a minimum of five years in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, giving it a rich, fruity flavor profile with hints of vanilla and caramel. Another popular offering is the Smokey Duke, a peated whisky with a bold, smoky flavor that is sure to please fans of Islay whiskies.
In addition to its core range of whiskies, the English Whisky Co also produces limited edition releases, often in collaboration with other local producers. One such collaboration is with The Norfolk Brewhouse, a brewery located just a few miles from the distillery. Together, the two companies created a whisky that has been aged in beer barrels, resulting in a unique flavor profile that combines the best of both worlds.
the english whisky co is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The distillery has implemented numerous green initiatives, such as using solar panels to generate electricity and recycling all of its waste products. In addition, the company supports local wildlife conservation efforts, ensuring that the land around the distillery remains pristine for generations to come.
Overall, the English Whisky Co is a shining example of the burgeoning English whisky industry. With its dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation, it has quickly established itself as a leader in the field. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or just someone looking to try something new, a bottle of whisky from the English Whisky Co is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Cheers to the spirit of English whisky!
So next time you’re in search of a premium whisky experience, be sure to check out the offerings from the English Whisky Co. You won’t be disappointed.