LATEST NEWS | DOWNTON DISTILLERY

Cranborne Chase Cider delivered one of their strongest harvests in years. Apples came in with high sugars and a clean flavour that produced exceptional juice. We picked up 440 litres...

At Downton Distillery, we grow lemon verbena in our garden for use in Explorer’s Gin. Thriving in the sunshine and chalky soil of the Downs, it fills the air with...

Downton Distillery has added to its growing list of accolades with two medals at the Great British Food Awards. The Orchard Spirits Range impressed judges, with the aged Damson Gin...

Forged from Wiltshire’s wild downs and proven by fire, Great Bustard Flight Strength Gin revives the naval legend of gunpowder-proof spirits. At 57% ABV, its strength isn’t just claimed —...

Downton Distillery has been awarded the Special Achievement Award at the 2025 Drinks Sustainability Awards, recognising our pioneering work in circular packaging, carbon reduction, and conservation. From our closed-loop refill...

The Great Bustard Group has adopted new conservation techniques inspired by Germany’s successful breeding programme. By focusing on gradual release, habitat management, and daily guided flights, the young bustards gain...

In the distillery garden, mullein stands tall among the botanicals. Often dismissed as a weed, this versatile plant is packed with natural healing properties. From soothing respiratory teas to ear...

Introduced to the art of haiku by James May, Downton Distillery explores this timeless Japanese form of poetry through nature and craft. Two original haiku celebrate the hum of the...

We’re raising a glass in celebration—Downton Distillery has won two coveted 1-star Great Taste Awards. Our rich, walnut-infused Nocino and our herbaceous, citrus-forward Great Bustard Gin have been recognised among...

In this exclusive Q & A, we caught up with Merlin Evans as he completed his awe-inspiring walk across South America, a journey that spanned mountains, rain forests, deserts, and...

Downton Distillery’s rewilded grounds are home to five red-listed and seven amber-listed bird species, visiting with the changing seasons. This thriving habitat reflects our commitment to conservation, offering a unique...

Thank you to everyone who generously donated towards our new Juniper Grove. Yesterday, 30 young saplings arrived—despite a slightly chaotic (and upside-down!) journey, they have now been carefully planted in...

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...

Last month, I was shown an Irish Guards Company colour, and as a former Scots Guards officer, I was intrigued by its connection to the Great Bustard. Delving into the...

We have been trying fat-washing our spirits. This is a technique used to infuse rich, savory flavours into cocktails perfect for crafting a unique, velvety martini. This process involves mixing...

Last month, 25 of our homegrown juniper saplings packed their bags (okay, roots) and set off on an exciting adventure! They were carefully taken by the Great Bustard Conservation Group...

For those who are unaware this is THE hardest rowing race anywhere in the world!  The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge is one of the world’s toughest rowing races, pushing participants...

The hot toddy has a rich history that blends cultural influences, practical remedies, and evolving tastes. Here's an overview of its origins and development: Origins in India The term "toddy"...

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...

Yup - you have read correctly! This year behind the scenes I have been working with James to create a mushroom gin.............................. This latest edition "California Dreamin' gin'," is a...

There are many moving parts to running a business and one element is always at the forefront of every business, which involves sustainability and recycling. What you may not know...

Wiltshire was home to an ancient Roman settlement called Verlucio, located near the village of Sandy Lane (North of Devizes). While not much remains of Verlucio today, it was once...

Since 2022, the IWSC has been awarding its annual Green Spirit Initiative Trophy. This prestigious Trophy recognises the multitude of considerate distillation and spirit production practices underway across the world.This...

Cranborne Chase, home to Downton Distillery is a large area of chalk downland and ancient woodland spanning parts of Dorset, Wiltshire, and Hampshire in southern England. It covers approximately 983...