We are proud to be an inaugural member of the English Whisky Guild which has launched to support the extraordinary quality and variety of the now numerous, unique whiskies that are crafted throughout England.
The goals of the EWG are to ensure that this high standard continues and thrives, whilst also to encourage and showcase the diversity of flavour profiles and production techniques which underpin the sector.
There are now 40 whisky distilleries spanning England, from the tip of the south-west to the furthest north-eastern edge, at all stages of development; some just getting started, the oldest of which has been distilling for nearly 20 years. Currently composed of 15 founder members, who are all distilling spirit at a wide variety of production scales, the first step of the EWG has been to submit a Geographical Indicator (‘GI’) to DEFRA. The GI will legally define English whisky to ensure consistent, understandable standards for all current and prospective distillers, of all sizes. The GI also contains proposals to bolster and support other connected UK industries, for example, grains used must be both grown and malted in the UK.
In addition the Guild will also strive to nurture a community of supportive producers who share achievements and learnings for the future good of English Whisky. It will also build awareness of the English whisky category with drinkers, creating real and virtual spaces where English whisky can be discovered, learnt about and enjoyed.
