The English Distillery has just earned itself one of the most prestigious spirits awards of all time. In the 2024 World Whiskies Awards, the distillery’s The English Sherry Cask earned the title of World’s Best Single Malt.
The Norfolk-based producer became England’s first operational whisky distillery in over 100 years when it opened in 2006. And just 17 years after laying down its first casks, the team has scooped up one of global whisky’s finest accolades.
Andrew Nelstrop, Owner and Chairman of The English Distillery, took over the reigns of the distillery from his Father in 2014. He said:
“We’re stunned. Whilst any whisky maker hopes to win an award, winning the big one is the realisation of my father’s sole goal of creating world class single malt whiskies in England, and sharing them with whisky lovers around the world.”
“This is a super way to celebrate our 18th year of whisky distilling. It’s a testament to our distillers’ work and I know my father would have been hugely proud of this achievement, as are we.
“As the English Whisky category continues to grow with pace, this award is another milestone for whisky making in England, particularly when it’s judged against some of the finest single malt whiskies from around the world, including Scotland.”
Like all the whiskies The English Distillery produces, the winning whisky was made using barley which is grown locally and on Nelstrop family farms. From start to finish, the entire distillation process takes place on-site at the Distillery’s Norfolk home. The liquid itself is described as boasting aromas of rich dark fruits from the sherry-filled casks, which combine in a nose of raw honey and vanilla, leading to a burst of sweet toffee, cherries and digestives on the palate. The final result is a wonderfully balanced and rich whisky that is utterly moreish – testament to the care and craft that
goes into every bottle.
Bottled at 46% abv, non-chill filtered and natural in colour, The English Sherry Cask is a no age statement whisky that is part of the distillery’s core range, which includes The English Original and The English Smokey (both RRP £47.50, 70cl bottle). To sample the winning liquid for yourself, you can purchase The English Sherry Cask, from retailers House of Malt, Bottle Apostle, The Spirit Specialist, The Whisky World, or directly from the distillery itself via www.englishwisky.co.uk.
Congratulations to the full team at The English Distillery. A well-deserved award and recognition for your craftsmanship.