CRAFT distiller Durham Distillery has launched a limited release Durham Cask Aged Gin, with just over 1,000 bottles produced, signed by head distiller Jess Tomlinson. Most commonly used in whisky distillation, cask ageing creating a richness of colour not commonly associated with gin. The process also adds a fourth level of flavour to Durham Gin’s combination of botanicals.

Head distiller Jess explains: “I wanted to experiment with the cask aged process and produce a unique gin offering. We used two complementary types of aged oak casks, American Bourbon and Spanish Oloroso Sherry, to create ours – adding fruity and honeyed complexity with subtle vanilla and citrus zest top notes. The American Bourbon cask itself offers a vanilla bean, caramel and oak finish, while the Spanish Oloroso offers spicy sweet fruit with honey and orange peel. The combination just works so well and tastes very special. We have designed beautiful new presentation tubes, with the artwork, inspired by the roundels at Durham Cathedral.”

The small-batch craft distillery, on the outskirts of Durham, has been distilling since 2013 and is one of the UK’s most traditional distilleries, using only the highest quality ingredients and a 400 litre copper pot called Lily (named fter the owner’s daughter).

Originally producing solely Durham Gin, the company, founded and led by Jon Chadwick, branched into Durham Vodka and additional seasonal products in 2014. Managing the entire distilling process in-house, the team of six produces just 300 bottles at a time.

Durham Cask Aged Gin, Durham Gin, Durham Vodka and Strawberry and Pink Pepper Liqueur are stocked in Majestic Wines, independent shops and bars and can be purchased from the website. Spend more than £100 and postage is free.

  • For more information, see durhamdistillery.co.uk