English Whisky

The English Distillery

Region
  • England
Awards
  • Wizards of Whisky Awards 2021, Whisky Magazine – Icons of Whisky Awards 2020, The World Whisky Masters 2022
Website
  • https://www.englishwhisky.co.uk/ 
Phone Number
  • +441953717939
Address
  • The English Distillery, Harling Road, Roudham, Norwich NR16 2QW, United Kingdom

Aerial view of spacious rural corporate complex.

History of The English Distillery

 

 

The English Whisky Co., England’s oldest registered whisky distillery, was founded by the Nelstrop family in 2006.

Rooted in a 600-year tradition of grain growing and processing, the family’s journey began in Yorkshire in 1335.

By 1820, Robert Nelstrop established one of the largest and oldest private mills in Stockport, Cheshire. A branch of the family moved to Lincolnshire in 1881, now supplying malting barley for the distillery.

James Nelstrop, born in 1945 into this lineage, had a diverse and innovative career in farming and business, spanning from Australia to Russia.

In 2005, upon retirement, he pursued his lifelong dream of opening a whisky distillery, submitting a planning application for England’s first in over a century.

The distillery’s first whisky was distilled under the guidance of Iain Henderson, a renowned distiller from Laphroaig. Officially opened in 2007 by HRH King Charles III, the distillery is now led by James’ son Andrew, continuing the mission to create world-class single malt whisky.

Distilling Methods and Production Process

The distillery prides itself on traditional methods, from grain to glass, using local ingredients and slow processes.

It handles all aspects of production on-site, including maturing casks and bottling. The English Whisky Co. stands as a testament to the Nelstrop family’s dedication to quality and tradition in whisky making.

 

 

Awards Won by The English Distillery

  1. Whisky Magazine Icons of Whisky Awards 2021:
    • Sustainable Distillery of the Year – Rest of the World, Highly Commended
    • Master Distiller/Master Blender of the Year – Rest of the World – David Fitt
  2. Wizards of Whisky Awards 2021:
    • Gold Winner & Whisky of the Year – The English 11 Year Old
  3. The Whisky Bible Awards 2021:
    • Best English Malt Whisky – The English 11 Year Old
  4. Whisky Magazine – Icons of Whisky Awards 2020:
    • Distillery Manager of the Year – Rest of the World – David Fitt
  5. Wizards of Whisky Awards 2020:
    • Gold Medals – English Original & English Smokey, Small Batch Virgin Oak & Small Batch Smokey Oak
  6. World Whiskies Awards 2020:
    • Bronze Medal – English Smokey
    • Best English Single Malt & Best Single Malt NAS (Category Winner) – Small Batch Smokey Virgin
    • Best Single Malt 12yr and under (Category Winner) – Small Batch Triple Distilled
  7. Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible:
    • Liquid Gold Award 2020 (94 points) – English Smokey
    • Liquid Gold 96 points – Small Batch Triple Distilled
    • Liquid Gold 95 points – Small Batch Virgin Oak & Small Batch Smokey Oak
  8. The World Whisky Masters 2022:
    • Six Master medals awarded to products from English distilleries
    • Notable mentions include Cotswolds Distillery’s Cotswolds Platinum Jubilee 1952 Cask Whisky, Filey Bay Special Release Double Oak #1 from Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery, and Gulliver’s 47 English Single Malt Whisky Bourbon Cask

 

The English Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The English Distillery offers a variety of unique and immersive tour experiences at their Norfolk distillery, each designed to cater to different interests in the world of whisky making. Here’s an overview of the tours available:

  1. Create Your Own Whisky Experience (120 mins, £100 per person): This tour allows participants to blend their own unique bottle of whisky, offering a hands-on and personalized experience.
  2. Cocktail Masterclass (120 mins, £55 per person): Held on Saturdays and Sundays, this class teaches the art of mixology, enabling guests to impress with their cocktail-making skills.
  3. Single Cask Collection Experience (150 mins, £65 per person): Available on Sundays, this ultimate behind-the-scenes tour focuses on the process of drawing whisky from a single cask.
  4. Ultimate Tasting Tour (120 mins, £55 per person): Perfect for whisky enthusiasts, this tour, available on Saturdays, Sundays, and Thursdays, offers an in-depth tasting experience of handcrafted whiskies.
  5. 15 Year Anniversary Tour & Tasting (75 mins, £35 per person): Celebrating the distillery’s 15th anniversary, this tour allows visitors to taste whisky laid down in 2006. It’s available on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
  6. The Original Tour & Tasting (60 mins, £22.50 per person): This tour, available every day of the week, takes guests behind the scenes to discover how the award-winning whisky is made.

Flask & Barrel Review of The English Distillery

First off, the ambiance of the place is just what you’d hope for in a distillery. It’s got this authentic, cozy vibe that makes you feel right at home. The staff? Super knowledgeable and friendly. They’re not just going through the motions – these folks are passionate about their craft and it shows.

The tour itself was top-notch. I’ve seen my fair share of distilleries, but I was seriously impressed by how they blend tradition with modern techniques. It’s like they’re respecting the old ways while not being afraid to innovate. That’s pretty cool in my book.

Now, let’s talk whiskey. Their selection is impressive. Each whiskey has its own character, and you can really taste the care and precision that goes into every bottle. The English 11 Year Old? Outstanding. It’s got complexity, balance, and just the right amount of kick. Definitely a highlight for me.

What’s also cool is their commitment to sustainability. Learning about their eco-friendly practices added an extra layer of appreciation for what they do. It’s not just about making great whiskey; it’s about doing it responsibly.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say maybe the tasting session could have included a couple more of their unique blends. But honestly, that’s me looking for something to critique.

What To Do Nearby The English Distillery

  1. Snetterton Circuit (1.8 miles away): If you’re into auto racing, this place is a must-visit. It’s just a short drive from the distillery and offers some adrenaline-pumping track action.
  2. Banham Zoo (1.8 miles away): Perfect for a family day out or if you’re an animal lover. This zoo is renowned for its wide range of animals and engaging exhibits.
  3. Peter Beales Roses Ltd (1.8 miles away): For a more tranquil experience, these gardens are a beautiful spot to unwind and enjoy some stunning floral displays.
  4. World Horse Welfare Hall Farm (2.3 miles away): Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate this. It’s a great place to learn about horse welfare and see these magnificent animals up close.
  5. 96th Bombardment Group Monument (1.8 miles away): A spot of historical interest, especially if you’re into World War II history. It’s a poignant reminder of the past, nestled in a peaceful setting.
  6. Elmtree Beers (2.3 miles away): As a whiskey fan, you might appreciate some local brews as well. This brewery is known for its craft beers and ales.
  7. Knettishall Heath (2.3 miles away): Another spot for nature lovers. It’s a beautiful heathland area, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
  8. Thelnetham Windmill and Old Buckenham Windmill: These are historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the past. They’re great for photo ops and learning a bit about local history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near The English Distillery? 

  • The Grain Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441953660838. Their address is Harling Road, Roudham, Norwich NR16 2QW, United Kingdom.
  • Rosarium Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441953454707. Their address is London Rd, Attleborough NR17 1AY, United Kingdom.
  • The Norfolk Kitchen Diner: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441842266094. Their address is 9-11 Guildhall St, Thetford IP24 1DT, United Kingdom.

What hotels are near The English Distillery? 

  • Field Cottage Bed and Breakfast: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441953718782. Their address is Eccles Rd, East Harling NR16 2JE, UK.
  • Breckland Lodge: Colourful rooms in a hotel offering a rustic-chic restaurant/bar, plus a bistro. It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441953455202. Their address is London Rd, Attleborough NR17 1AY, UK.
  • Sherbourne House: Georgian house with elegant, cottage-style rooms, plus a gourmet restaurant and sunroom. It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441953454363. Their address is 8 Norwich Rd, Attleborough NR17 2JX, UK.