Nestled in the heart of the English countryside, the Cotswolds Distillery is more than just a producer of fine spirits, it's a place where passion, heritage and craft are brought to life. On a recent visit, I had the pleasure of experiencing their tour and it exceeded every expectation.
From the moment the tour began, it was clear we were in for something special. Our guide struck the perfect balance between being incredibly knowledgeable and delightfully entertaining. The experience was packed with insightful facts and history, but delivered with humour and warmth that kept everyone engaged.
One of the highlights was learning about the distillery's origin story and the inspiration behind its founding. It was lovely to feel so connected to the brand, not just through its products, but through its journey. Understanding the dedication behind every bottle really brought the brand to life.
A particularly impressive part of their process is their commitment to using locally-sourced produce. Much of what goes into their spirits comes from nearby farms, supporting the local community and ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients go into every bottle. It adds another layer of authenticity and care that makes their drinks truly special.
As we moved through the distillery, we were introduced to each still, (each one affectionately named may I add), which gave a charming and personal touch. It was fascinating to learn about their production process in such detail, from the ingredients they use to the methods they employ.
Another eye-opener was visiting the cask storage area. I hadn’t realised just how long whiskey is aged to develop that deep, woody flavour. Standing among the rows of barrels, there was a real sense of time, patience and craftsmanship in the air.
We wrapped up the tour with a tasting session featuring their gin and whiskey. While I usually don’t drink either spirit neat, the guided tasting experience of learning how to smell, sip and savour was a real treat - as much as my taste buds weren't sophisticated enough for it. It helped me appreciate the complexity and character of each drink, even as a novice.
Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur, a gin enthusiast or just someone who loves discovering how things are made, this tour is a brilliant experience. It would make a fantastic gift or a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Cotswolds.
As a long-time fan of the brand, I left even more in love than before. And I have to give a special mention to their cream liqueur, as it's an absolute favourite of mine & my fiancé! You can of course purchase the products onsite in their store, alongside being able to fill your own whiskey from a cask & plenty of stores across the Cotswolds district. The Cotswolds Distillery holds a variety of events throughout the year, so make sure to check out their website to see what's occurring & stay up to date so you don't miss out.
*I was kindly invited as press for this tour of the Cotswolds Distillery. All my opinions are my own, open & honest. Please refer to my disclaimer for more information.*
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