When it comes to whiskey production, Scotland and Ireland are often the first countries that come to mind. However, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Norfolk, England, is a distillery that is making a name for itself in the world of whiskey – the english whiskey company.
Established in 2006, the english whiskey company was founded by father and daughter team Andrew and Nicola Nelstrop. Their goal was to create a high-quality English whiskey that could rival those produced in Scotland and Ireland. Andrew Nelstrop, a farmer and former sugar beet grower, had a vision of reviving the lost art of English whiskey making, which had not been produced on a commercial scale since the early 1900s.
The Nelstrops set up their distillery in the stables of St. George’s Distillery, located on the family farm in Roudham, Norfolk. They started with just one still, but over the years they have expanded their operations and now have multiple stills producing a range of whiskey styles.
One of the key factors that sets the english whiskey company apart is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. The barley used in their whiskey is grown on the farm surrounding the distillery, and the water used comes from a nearby borehole. This dedication to using local resources not only ensures the quality and authenticity of their whiskey but also promotes sustainability and supports the local economy.
In addition to their commitment to local sourcing, the English Whiskey Company prides itself on the traditional methods they use in the production of their whiskey. They use hand-operated pot stills, which are heated by direct fire, a method that allows for more control over the distillation process and produces a richer, more flavorful spirit.
The English Whiskey Company offers a range of whiskey styles, including single malt, single grain, and blended whiskey. Each style is aged in a variety of casks, including bourbon, sherry, and port barrels, which infuse the whiskey with unique flavors and aromas. The whiskies are aged for a minimum of three years, with some expressions aged for much longer, resulting in a complex and well-rounded spirit.
One of the English Whiskey Company’s most popular products is their Chapter 14 Single Malt Whiskey. This award-winning whiskey is aged in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, giving it a rich and smooth flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruits. It has garnered critical acclaim both in the UK and internationally, cementing the English Whiskey Company’s reputation as a producer of high-quality whiskey.
In addition to their core range of whiskies, the English Whiskey Company also offers limited edition releases and special bottlings, which showcase the creativity and innovation of their distillers. These releases often experiment with different cask finishes, aging techniques, and blending methods, resulting in unique and exciting expressions that appeal to whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Despite its relatively short history, the English Whiskey Company has quickly risen to prominence in the world of whiskey, winning numerous awards and accolades for their products. Their commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation has set them apart from other distilleries and has earned them a loyal following of whiskey connoisseurs.
As interest in English whiskey continues to grow, the English Whiskey Company is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and further establish itself as a leading producer of premium spirits. With a dedication to quality, a respect for tradition, and a spirit of innovation, the English Whiskey Company is poised for continued success in the years to come.
In conclusion, the English Whiskey Company is a shining example of the resurgence of English whiskey making and a testament to the passion and dedication of its founders. With its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation, the English Whiskey Company has carved out a niche for itself in the competitive world of whiskey production and is destined to become a household name among whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.