The Lakes Distillery, located near Bassenthwaite Lake in the north of the Lake District, is a hidden gem and has become known for producing exceptional spirits that reflect the region’s rich heritage. With its stunning views, this distillery creates exceptional drinks: single malt whisky, gin, and vodka.

Visitors can explore the innovative processes behind their whisky, gin, and vodka, gaining insight into what makes these spirits unique. Experiencing The Lakes Distillery offers an opportunity to sample exquisite drinks and appreciate the artistry involved in crafting them.

In addition to its products, The Lakes Distillery features stunning surroundings that enhance the overall experience. The combination of picturesque landscapes and a passionate team dedicated to quality makes a visit truly memorable. Consumers and enthusiasts alike will find something to appreciate in the distillery’s commitment to excellence.

Whether one is a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, there is much to discover at The Lakes Distillery. Engaging with the distillers and participating in tastings allows for a deeper appreciation of the craft behind each bottle.

The History of The Lakes Distillery

The Lakes Distillery was established in 2014, located in the picturesque English Lake District. The site is a restoration of a Victorian model farm, blending heritage with modern distilling techniques.

This distillery focuses on producing whisky, gin, and vodka using local ingredients. Their flagship whisky, The One, is a blended spirit reflecting the character of the region.

The Lakes Distillery gained recognition quickly, winning numerous awards within a few years. It emphasises craftsmanship and the importance of sustainable practices in its production methods.

Key milestones:

• 2014: Distillery founded and opened to the public.
• 2017: First batches of gin and vodka launched.
• 2021: Release of their first single malt whisky.

The distillery offers tours and tastings, promoting an understanding of the distilling process. Visitors can explore the facilities and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind each product.

With a commitment to quality and tradition, The Lakes Distillery continues to grow, expanding its portfolio and attracting whisky enthusiasts globally.

The Art of Single Malt Whisky

Single malt whisky is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. At The Lakes Distillery, they’ve mastered this craft, producing whisky that’s rich and smooth. They source malted barley from local Scottish fields and use pure Lake District water. This combination creates a unique flavour profile that whisky lovers adore: Versatile & characterful fine blended whisky.

What sets their whisky apart is the meticulous aging process. The Lakes Distillery uses a variety of cask types, including sherry and bourbon. This results in layers of flavour that evolve with each sip. Imagine tasting hints of dried fruits, vanilla, and a touch of spice. It’s this complexity that keeps you coming back for more.

There is a collection of seven exquisite wood-forward, sherry-led and flavour-packed single malts and several blended whiskies including some of these most popular selections:

• The One Fine Blended Whisky
• The One Sherry Cask Finished Whisky
• The Lakes Whiskymaker’s Reserve No. 7
• The One Orange Wine Cask Finished Whisky
• The One Port Cask Finished Whisky

Lakes Gin: A Refreshing Twist

We love our gin. You might argue that gin is a summer drink but if you are anything like me, it hits the spot in the Autumn. After a beautiful sunny (but cold) autumnal day of hard work in the garden, just before putting the roast chicken dinner on, a bag of our favourite Pipers Sea Salt crisps with a The Lakes English Gin is just about perfect, served with Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic and a slice of lime. For times like this, and numerous others I am sure, Lakes Gin is the answer. This gin is unlike any other, with a recipe that blends traditional botanicals with local ingredients. The use of juniper berries gives it that classic gin taste, but it’s the hints of citrus and spices that truly make it stand out.

What really captivates gin enthusiasts is the distillation method. The Lakes Distillery employs a unique copper still that allows for a small batch production. This means more attention to detail and better quality overall. Whether you enjoy it neat, in a cocktail, or with tonic water, Lakes Gin promises a refreshing experience every time.

The gin selection at Lakes Distillery is distinctive, with a focus on local botanicals. The signature product, The Lakes Gin, incorporates a blend of nine botanicals, including juniper, coriander, and locally sourced heather. The result is a crisp and aromatic spirit, ideal for crafting cocktails or enjoying neat.

They also offer The Lakes Distillery’s Limited Edition Gin, which introduces seasonal botanicals, allowing for unique flavours throughout the year. Each batch is small-scale, ensuring attention to detail and quality, appealing to both gin connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Choose from:

• The Lakes Gin – Classic English Dry Gin (our favourite!)
• The Lakes Pink Grapefruit Gin – Distinctly zesty pink gin
• The Lakes Rhubarb and Rosehip Gin Liquer
• The Lakes Elderflower Gin Liquer

Lakes Vodka: Pure and Refined

Not a massive vodka fan, on the odd occasion that I am in the mood for one, the Lakes Vodka is the epitome of purity. This ultra-smooth English vodka retains the characteristics of the finest British wheat for a sweeter, more rounded flavour. Made from high-quality ingredients, the distillery focuses on creating a vodka that’s smooth and clean. It undergoes multiple distillations, ensuring that every drop is of the highest quality.

Why choose Lakes Vodka? It’s all about texture. The smoothness of this vodka allows it to mix well with a variety of drinks. Picture a perfectly crafted cocktail or just a simple vodka and tonic – each sip is a reminder of the dedication that goes into its creation. Their best seller is The Lakes Vodka – Ultra-Smooth English Vodka from The Lake District.

Sustainable Practices at The Lakes Distillery

What’s more impressive is The Lakes Distillery’s commitment to sustainability. They believe in protecting the beauty of the Lake District for future generations. By sourcing local ingredients and using eco-friendly packaging from local suppliers, they ensure their impact on the environment is minimal. Enjoying a drink from The Lakes Distillery means you’re supporting a brand that cares about its surroundings.

The Experience of a Distillery Tour

Visiting The Lakes Distillery goes beyond just tasting their products. Experience a distillery unlike any other.

Taking a distillery tour unlike any other is an adventure. Immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of their working distillery, following the spirit’s journey to discover how every flavour possibility is achieved, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how each spirit is crafted. From the copper stills to the tasting room, the experience is educational and fun. Plus, you get to sample their exceptional drinks, making it all the more memorable.

Conclusion: A Toast to Quality

Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur, a gin enthusiast, or a vodka lover, The Lakes Distillery has something for everyone. With their dedication to quality and sustainability, each sip tells a story of craftsmanship and passion. So, next time you’re searching for a drink that embodies the spirit of the Lake District, reach for a bottle from The Lakes Distillery. Cheers!