The distillery will be closed from 18 September to 4 October. Orders placed during this period will be dispatched from 5 October.

Yellow pommace hanging from a tree with green leaves on a dark background background

From the Distillery

THE JOURNAL

Stories, recipes, and reflections from our corner of Wiltshire — exploring the craft, the landscape, and the flavours that shape our spirits.

  • Man sat behind a working bench, with papers sat on it.

    Education | What makes a good gin?

    Back in the early to mid-2000s, the gin world started to feel the first ripples of what would become a full-blown revolution—something few could’ve predicted at the time. A fresh...

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  • Honey jar with lid open, sat on a table. Honey spoon next to it.

    Education | History of the Hot Toddy

    The hot toddy has a rich history that blends cultural influences, practical remedies, and evolving tastes. Origins in India The term "toddy" is believed to have originated from the Hindi...

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  • Two cocktails sat next to each other on a table with a green background.

    Education | The Negroni vs. Sbagliato

    The Negroni has earned its place as a sophisticated favorite on bar menus worldwide. According to legend, the ruby-red cocktail originated in 1919 at Caffè Casoni in Florence, Italy, when...

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  • JAMES MAY | HOW WE CREATED A MUSHROOM GIN - Downton Distillery UK

    JAMES MAY | HOW WE CREATED A MUSHROOM GIN

    Working with James May, we created California Dreamin’ Gin using girolle mushrooms, patchouli and oregano. The result is an award-winning umami gin with savoury depth, gentle fruit, earthy warmth and...

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  • Gentleman, called James May wearing glasses and some bottles of gin in front of him.

    Education | Rise of Celebrity Spirits

    Celebrity spirits are enjoying a remarkable surge in popularity. From actors and musicians to television presenters and sports stars, famous names are increasingly entering the drinks industry. For consumers, the...

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  • Man walking the street with an umbrella over his head, bottle of gin to the left.

    Education | Creation of London Drizzle

    Creating spirits for James May is never straightforward. Following the success of Asian Parsnip and American Mustard, we were asked once again to develop a spirit around an unusual concept....

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  • Water jar with lemon slices and ice in it sat on a table.

    Education | How to | Elderflower Infusions

    The countryside is finally bursting into life and one of the most eagerly awaited signs of early summer is the arrival of elderflower. For just a few short weeks, hedgerows...

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  • Spring blossom, coloured pink with the sun in the background

    Education | 2020 Spring Review of Gin Market

    With the promise of Spring budding on every tree branch (not that we can get to with all the self isolation) and the interminable greyness of January and February behind...

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