Explorer's Gin is the flagship spirit from Downton Distillery, crafted on the West Wiltshire Downs using a combination of traditional distilling techniques and locally inspired botanicals. Designed for those who appreciate character, provenance and flavour, it is a contemporary London Dry Gin with a distinctly English identity.

At its heart is locally grown western red cedar, harvested within sight of the distillery. This unusual botanical provides a rich, aromatic backbone that sets Explorer's Gin apart from more conventional juniper-led styles. Bright citrus notes from lemon verbena and carefully selected citrus peels bring freshness and lift, while pink peppercorn and Sichuan pepper add subtle warmth and complexity.

The result is a gin that balances freshness, structure and depth. Juniper remains present throughout, but works alongside layers of herbal, citrus and woodland character to create a spirit that is both distinctive and versatile.

Whether enjoyed in a classic G&T, a dry martini or a creative cocktail, Explorer's Gin offers a true taste of modern English craft distilling.

• 44% ABV @ 700ml.
• Calories per shot 61.
• Contemporary London Dry. 
• Distilled and bottled in Downton, Wiltshire.
• Small Batch, 100 bottles to a run all hand signed.

MESSENGER POUCH

After receiving numerous requests for presentation boxes, we took a different approach creating a bottle pouch instead. Not only do they add a rugged, adventurous touch, but they’re also practical and reusable. Rather than wasteful packaging that gets discarded, these pouches are designed to join you on your modern-day adventures, whether it’s carrying essentials on a hike, stashing your favorite bottle, or simply adding a bit of explorer’s charm to your everyday gear.

WATCH SUNDAY BRUNCH VIDEO

See what the Sunday Brunch panel thought of Explorer's Gin.

SUSTAINABILITY

Please keep your bottle and use our refill packs, with your next order, we will cover your shipping charge and these can be recycled.

AWARDS

Nose: Juniper, floral and citrus notes with a subtle bouquet of pineapple (red cedar), spice and anise.

Palate: Juniper appears at the forefront replaced by the bright bold citrus flavours, pink grapefruit and orange. Verbena provides the creamy textures. Pink pepper will cause the radial warmth on the core whilst Sichuan oils oxidising on your tongue will cause the mouth to cool providing the subtle tingling and menthol notes which enhance the tail notes of fennel and liquorice providing the final flourish that lingers in the mouth.

Finish: Smooth, rounded full bodied, with a luxurious texture.

Perfect Serve I 50ml Explorer’s Gin, Fevertree Tonic, ice and garnished with either orange or grapefruit peel, zest the rim.

Short Serve I Downton Negroni  I  35ml Explorer’s Gin, 35ml Campari, 35ml 1738 Red Vermouth. Ice. Stir. Orange twist.

Long Serve I French 75 (Vermeire 1922)  I  40ml Explorer’s Gin, 20ml Calvados, grenadine & lemon juice. Shake. Twist.

Classic Serve I Vesper Martini  I  60ml Explorer’s Gin, 20ml Downton Chardonnay Vodka, 10ml Lillet Blanc. Ice. Stir.

• Pink grapefruit may be refreshing and delicious, but it’s not always friendly to everyone.
• It contains compounds known as furanocoumarins, which can interfere with how the body metabolises certain medications—especially those related to blood pressure, cholesterol, and immuno-suppressants.
• This interaction can cause the medicine to become too strong or too weak, leading to unintended side effects.
• If you're on prescription medication or have known sensitivities, it's best to check with your doctor before consuming products containing grapefruit, including spirits or mixers flavoured with it.

• Pink pepper, often used for its bright, fruity heat and vibrant colour, comes from the berries of the Schinus molle or Schinus terebinthifolia trees—both members of the cashew family (Anacardiaceae).
• Despite its name, pink pepper is not a true peppercorn and shares more in common with cashews and mangoes.
• This botanical relationship means that individuals with nut allergies, particularly to cashews or pistachios, may also react to pink pepper.
• Allergic responses can range from mild irritation to more serious reactions, so caution is advised when using it in food or drink, especially for those with known tree nut sensitivities.
  
  

If you no longer want your bottle and it is not damaged, please send it back to us using 'Free Post Downton Distillery.' We can either reuse them or recycle them.

Faux leather makes excellent clothing patches because it's durable, stylish, and easy to maintain. Unlike real leather, it’s lighter, more flexible, and resistant to cracking, making it perfect for reinforcing elbows, knees, or adding a bold statement to jackets and bags.

They also give clothing a rugged, vintage, or modern touch without the high cost of real leather. Plus, it’s water-resistant and cruelty-free, making it a practical and ethical choice for fashion and repairs. Whether for function or flair, faux leather patches add character and longevity to your wardrobe!

• We do hope that you are happy with your purchase.
• We aim to make the return process as simple as possible.
• We must be notified of damaged goods within 2 days of delivery.
• We will refund you using the method of payment used to make the purchase.
• Goods must be returned unopened, sealed and in the original packaging.
• Downton Distillery Ltd will refund accepted returns within 30 days of you notifying us.
• The postage of the return is the responsibility of the purchaser.
• Loss or damage during transit of goods being returned is the responsibility of the purchaser.

• Please note delivery will require a signature from an over 18.
• The small 50ml bottles are deemed as small parcels by Royal Mail.
• All deliveries are sent by signed & tracked post.
• Deliveries will not be made to minors and delivery services will not complete delivery if they are unsure of the persons age.
• We are unable to leave a package (even in a ‘safe place’) without a signature.
• For UK deliveries please allow 3 - 5 working days from payment.
• The distillery is not responsible for Royal Mail strikes or late deliveries by Royal Mail.