Eden Mill St Andrews logo

Eden Mill St Andrews distillery

Region
  • Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Awards
  • Eden Mill’s Golf Gin and Love Gin both secured gold medals at The Gin Masters 2023, Eden Mill’s Original Gin was awarded “Gin of The Year” at the Scottish Gin Awards 2018.
Website
  • https://www.edenmill.com/
Phone Number
  • +441334834038
Address
  • 1a Rutland St, Edinburgh EH1 2AD, United Kingdom

Eden Mill St. Andrews distillery building exterior

History of Eden Mill St Andrews distillery

Nestled in the historic town of St Andrews, Scotland, Eden Mill St Andrews isn’t your typical whisky distillery. Founded in 2012, it’s a relative newcomer to the scene, but its story is woven with the rich brewing and distilling heritage of the region.

A Site Steeped in History (1655 – 1882)

The story begins much earlier than Eden Mill itself. The distillery sits on the banks of the Eden Estuary, an area with a long history of producing alcoholic beverages. Records indicate that as early as 1655, Robert Haig of Throsk, an early-days whisky distiller, faced trouble for illicit distilling on the Sabbath – a testament to the area’s longstanding connection with spirits.

Fast forward to the 19th century, and the site became home to the Seggie Whisky Distillery. Established by the Haig Family, it operated for several decades before transitioning into a brewery and paper mill in the late 1800s.

A New Dawn (2012 – Present)

The embers of distilling were rekindled in 2012 when Paul Miller, alongside a small team, established Eden Brewery on the historic site. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that would revive the art of whisky and gin production in St Andrews.

Just two years later, in 2014, Eden Mill took a significant step by distilling its first malt whisky, officially becoming Scotland’s first single-site distillery producing both whisky and gin.

This unique combination reflects Eden Mill’s philosophy of innovation and a commitment to using local ingredients. Their approach extends beyond the spirits themselves, as they also boast a microbrewery on-site, further solidifying their position as a multifaceted beverage producer.

A Spirited Selection

Eden Mill offers a diverse range of spirits, catering to different palates and preferences. Here’s a glimpse into their offerings:

  • Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: Their whisky portfolio is still growing, but they offer expressions matured in various casks, showcasing the impact of wood on flavor profiles.
  • Gin: Eden Mill’s gins are known for their use of unique botanicals, including local Fife coastal herbs and hand-foraged botanicals. They offer a variety of expressions, each with a distinct character.
  • Limited Editions: Eden Mill is known for pushing boundaries with limited-edition releases. These innovative spirits experiment with different grains, cask finishes, and botanical combinations.

A Distillery on the Move (2023 – Present)

In June 2023, Eden Mill marked a significant milestone by taking ownership of the building that will be their permanent home. This new distillery site is located next to the original location on the banks of the Eden Estuary, symbolizing a return to the area’s historic distilling roots.

Awards Won by Eden Mill St Andrews Distillery

  • Gin of the Year 2018 – Eden Mill’s Original Gin was awarded “Gin of The Year” at the Scottish Gin Awards 2018. It also won the “London Dry Gin of the Year” category in the same competition, showcasing its excellence in quality and flavor​.
  • The Gin Masters 2023 – Eden Mill’s Golf Gin and Love Gin both secured gold medals at The Gin Masters 2023, highlighting their superior craftsmanship and taste​.
  • Design & Packaging Masters 2023 – The Art of St Andrews 2023 Single Malt won a Masters Medal for its outstanding design and packaging. Additionally, The Guard Bridge Blended Scotch took home a silver medal in the same category, emphasizing the distillery’s commitment to exceptional presentation.

Eden Mill St Andrews distillery Tour Information and Experience

Eden Mill St Andrews infuses the spirit of its historic town into its tours, offering visitors a chance to delve into the world of Scottish whisky and gin creation. Here’s what you can expect from their distillery tour experience:

A Multi-Sensory Journey

Eden Mill’s tours are designed to be both informative and engaging. They cater to a variety of interests, focusing not just on the production process but also on the history, philosophy, and unique ingredients that define their spirits.

Here are some highlights of the Eden Mill tour experience:

  • Interactive Exploration: Expect a guided walk through the distillery, where you’ll witness the fascinating process of transforming grain and botanicals into handcrafted gin and whisky.
  • Aromatic Adventure: Immerse yourself in the alluring world of botanicals. Learn about the local and exotic ingredients used in their gin production and discover the impact they have on the final product.
  • Whisky Wisdom: Gain insights into the art of whisky making, from grain selection and mashing to cask maturation and bottling.

Tour Options to Suit Your Taste

Eden Mill offers a variety of tour experiences to cater to different preferences and time constraints:

  • The Classic Tour (1 hour): This introductory tour provides a comprehensive overview of the distillery’s operations, history, and philosophy. It includes a guided tour and a tasting of two expressions – one gin and one whisky.
  • The Gin Experience (1 hour): For gin enthusiasts, this tour delves deeper into the world of botanicals and gin production. Learn about the unique gins created by Eden Mill and enjoy a comparative tasting of three expressions.
  • The Whisky Exploration (1 hour): Whisky lovers can embark on this tour to explore the secrets behind Eden Mill’s single malts and blended whiskies. Discover the role of casks in maturation and savor a tasting of two expressions.
  • The Chocolate & Whisky Pairing (1.5 hours): This unique experience combines the world of whisky with the art of chocolate making. Enjoy a guided tour, followed by a tasting of three whiskies paired with specially selected chocolates to enhance the flavor profiles.

Please note: Tour options, durations, and availability might change. It’s always best to check the latest information on the Eden Mill website before booking.

A Tasteful Conclusion

All tours at Eden Mill culminate in a delightful tasting session, allowing you to experience the culmination of their craftsmanship. Savor the distinct flavors of their gins and whiskies, guided by knowledgeable staff who will answer any questions you might have.

Booking and Information

  • Tours are available throughout the week, with multiple timings offered per day.
  • Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can book tours online through the Eden Mill website or by phone.
  • While the distillery is currently under construction (as of July 2024) with tours unavailable at their St Andrews location, they offer tours and experiences at their alternate location in Edinburgh – The Eden Mill Experience.

Visiting Eden Mill offers a chance to:

  • Learn about the history and process of gin and whisky making.
  • Discover the unique approach and philosophy of Eden Mill.
  • Explore the role of local ingredients in their spirits.
  • Savor the taste of their award-winning gins and whiskies through a guided tasting.

Whether you’re a seasoned spirit enthusiast or simply curious about Scottish distilling traditions, a tour of Eden Mill promises a memorable and informative experience.

Flask & Barrel Review of Eden Mill St Andrews distillery

Visiting Eden Mill St Andrews was an experience I’ll never forget. As a whiskey collector who’s toured countless distilleries, this place stands out in all the right ways.

First off, the location is gorgeous. Nestled in the heart of St Andrews, the distillery has this authentic, rustic charm that immediately draws you in. The tour was well-organized and super informative. Our guide was passionate and knowledgeable, making sure to cover every detail about their unique processes and the history behind their craft.

The tasting session was the highlight for me. Eden Mill’s range of gins and whiskies is impressive, but their Golf Gin and Love Gin, which won gold at The Gin Masters 2023, were exceptional. The flavors were complex and beautifully balanced. Their Art of St Andrews 2023 Single Malt also caught my attention, not just for its taste but for the award-winning packaging.

What really sets Eden Mill apart is their dedication to innovation and quality. They’ve managed to combine traditional methods with a creative twist, resulting in products that are both unique and high-quality.

I’d rate my experience a solid 4.7 out of 5. The only reason it’s not a perfect score is because I always believe there’s room for a tiny bit of improvement, maybe in adding a few more interactive elements to the tour. But honestly, it’s a minor quibble in an otherwise fantastic visit.

What To Do Nearby Eden Mill St Andrews distillery

  • Explore St Andrews Town Center (0.5 miles): Immerse yourself in the charming town center, known for its medieval streets, university buildings, and iconic landmarks. Explore the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, the oldest university in Scotland (University of St Andrews), and wander through the historical streets lined with shops and cafes.

  • St Andrews Castle (0.7 miles): Take a step back in time and explore the imposing ruins of St Andrews Castle. Learn about its turbulent history, climb the iconic bottle dungeon, and enjoy panoramic views of the town and coastline.

  • Old Course at St Andrews (1.2 miles): For golf enthusiasts, a visit to St Andrews wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the legendary Old Course. Explore this historic course, considered the “Home of Golf,” and walk in the footsteps of golfing greats.

  • East Sands Beach (1.3 miles): Escape to the beautiful East Sands Beach, a haven for relaxation and scenic walks. Stretch out on the golden sand, enjoy a refreshing swim in the North Sea, or try your hand at surfing or kiteboarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Eden Mill St Andrews distillery?

  • Dishoom Edinburgh: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 3A St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD, Scotland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 131 202 6406.
  • Blackwoods: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 29-31 Frederick St, Edinburgh EH2 2ND, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can contact them at +44 131 225 5550.
  • Brasserie Prince: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can contact them at +44 131 557 5000.

What hotels are near Eden Mill St Andrews distillery?

  • InterContinental Edinburgh the George, an IHG Hotel: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 19-21 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PB, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 131 225 1251.
  • Ten Hill Place Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 10 Hill Place, Edinburgh EH8 9DS, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 131 662 2080.
  • hub by Premier Inn Edinburgh Haymarket hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Torphichen Street, Edinburgh EH3 8JB, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can contact them at +44 333 777 7924.