We are incredibly proud to announce that Downton Distillery has been awarded the Special Achievement Award at the 2025 Drinks Sustainability Awards, held at London's iconic OXO Tower. To be recognised amongst some of the most innovative and forward-thinking businesses in the drinks sector is both humbling and inspiring.
This award represents far more than the spirits we produce. It recognises a philosophy that has guided the distillery from the very beginning. Sustainability has never been a separate project, marketing campaign or box-ticking exercise. It has been woven into every decision we make, from how we source ingredients and package products to how we support wildlife and engage with our local community.
Over the past few years, we have challenged ourselves to rethink what a small distillery can achieve. We introduced one of the UK's first refill pouch schemes, helping customers dramatically reduce packaging waste while lowering their environmental footprint. We reduced our Scope 1 and 2 emissions by more than 80%, invested in carbon removal projects and moved to renewable energy. At the same time, we have focused on restoring the landscapes around us through juniper rewilding projects and our long-standing support of the Great Bustard conservation programme.
Innovation has also come through collaboration. Surplus cider, grape pomace and wine lees have been transformed into award-winning spirits through our Orchard Spirits collection. Land that once offered little ecological value has become a thriving botanical garden supporting pollinators, birds and other wildlife. Partnerships with farmers, conservationists and local producers have helped strengthen the resilience of the wider landscape.
Standing alongside respected organisations such as Sustainable Wine Solutions and Nc'nean Distillery was a reminder that meaningful change happens when knowledge, ideas and ambition are shared.
This award belongs to everyone who has supported our journey. Our customers, partners, suppliers and local community have all played a role. Together we are proving that exceptional spirits, environmental responsibility and commercial success can go hand in hand. For us, sustainability is not separate from what we do. It is the reason we do it.
