THE EXPLORER'S JOURNAL
STORIES FROM BEYOND THE DOWNS
Downton Distillery is more than a working distillery. Set high on the Wiltshire Downs, it is a place where wildlife thrives, adventures begin and ideas become spirits. Join us behind the scenes to discover the changing seasons, conservation projects, inspiring people and everyday moments that shape who we are.
WELCOME
From wild landscapes and local legends to seasonal cocktails and the people who shape our corner of Wiltshire. This is where we share what inspires us. Take a look around and join us on the journey.
OUR ADVENTURER OF THE MONTH
PHIL HOWARD.CHEF. CYCLIST. FUNDRAISER.
Michelin-starred chef Phil Howard is taking on one of cycling's toughest challenges. Riding every stage of the Tour de France one week ahead of the professionals to help raise £1 million for Cure Leukaemia. A journey powered by resilience, purpose and determination.
RAISED: £40,694 by Phil | TOUR TARGET £1,000,000
GREAT BUSTARD GIN - DIRTY MARTINI
The Dirty Martini is one of the world's most iconic cocktails. Elegant, savoury, and wonderfully simple, it has remained a favourite for more than a century. Hecate had a fondness for the olives.
AUTUMNAL - SUMMER CUP
Served long over ice with lemonade and ginger ale, it becomes a countryside interpretation of one of Britain's most famous summer drinks. It is easy to make, perfect for garden parties, outdoor events and long afternoons with friends.
FLIGHT STRENGTH - CLASSIC G&T
Classic G&T delivers crisp citrus, bright botanicals and perfect refreshment — the ultimate, timeless cooler for long, sun‑soaked summer days. 1:3 Ratio Gin to tonic water, ice and orange peel.
EXPLORER'S GIN - SOUTHSIDE
If you enjoy a classic Mojito but prefer gin to rum, the Southside could quickly become your favourite cocktail. It delivers the same refreshing character while allowing the botanicals of a good gin to shine through.
LEARN
EXPLORER'S GIN - BASIL SMASH
This cocktail is summer in a glass. Bright, fresh, and full of energy, it combines citrus and herbs to create a drink that is both refreshing and easy to make. The first sip immediately awakens the palate.
LEARN
GREAT BUSTARD - THE ENGLISH GARDEN
The English Garden cocktail typically includes ingredients such as gin, elderflower liqueur, apple juice, and lime juice. The combination of these ingredients evokes the essence of an English garden, with its fresh and fragrant elements.
LEARN
THE MARTINI
The Martini has stood the test of time for one reason. Simplicity rewards precision. Discover its history, learn why vermouth matters and master the techniques behind one of the world's most iconic cocktails.
PINK GIN
Long before pink gin became bright and sugary, it was an elegant naval serve built around bitters and classic gin. Explore its fascinating history and learn how to make a beautifully balanced Pink Gin at home.
ART OF SUGAR SYRUP
The simplest ingredient often makes the biggest difference. Learn how to create classic sugar syrups, seasonal infusions and flavoured sweeteners that transform homemade cocktails.
ELDER FLOWER INFUSION
For a few weeks each summer the hedgerows burst into bloom. Learn when to harvest elder flowers, how to infuse their delicate floral character and create drinks that capture the taste of an English summer.
HOMEMADE VERMOUTH
No ingredient is more misunderstood than vermouth. Discover how it is made, why freshness matters and how the right vermouth transforms Martinis, Negronis and countless classic cocktails.
