The East London Liquor Company, situated in the heart of London's historic distilling district, has resurrected a spirit of production that once thrived in its vicinity. This distillery, located in an old glue factory in Bow Wharf, is part of a renaissance for London's craft spirits, proudly bringing spirit manufacturing back to London’s East End after more than a century.
Founded by Alex Wolpert in 2014, the East London Liquor Company (ELLC) stands as a testament to quality, locally produced spirits, with a portfolio that includes handcrafted gin, vodka, rum, and an array of other spirits. What sets ELLC apart is their commitment to exceptional quality at prices that ensure its products are accessible to a wide audience.
The production process at ELLC is transparent and grounded in tradition. They use custom-designed Arnold Holstein copper stills, which are on display for visitors to view, showcasing the care and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. The company takes pride in sourcing the best ingredients; their gins, for example, boast botanicals from around the world, while their vodka is made from 100% British wheat.
ELLC’s range of gins includes a variety of profiles, from their flagship London Dry with notes of juniper, grapefruit and cardamom to more adventurous offerings that feature local botanicals. Their barrel-aged gins add a twist to the traditional ageing in various casks to impart depth and complexity.
Their rums also receive accolades, distilled from molasses and aged in ex-bourbon and red wine casks, contributing to the nuanced flavours. Moreover, ELLC has ventured into whisky production, laying down casks that promise to bring London-made whiskies back to the forefront.
The company’s ethos extends beyond its spirits; ELLC is also known for their sustainability efforts. They aim to minimise waste and reduce their environmental impact wherever possible, ensuring their production processes are as eco-friendly as they can be.
For those curious to explore the world of craft spirits, the East London Liquor Company offers a visitor experience that includes tours and tastings. These events provide an immersive dive into the art of distilling, allowing guests to sample the spirits and gain insight into the meticulous process of creating them.
ELLC’s location also features a restaurant and bar, where patrons can enjoy cocktails crafted with the company's spirits, further ingratiating the community with the vibrant culture of London's East End. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike can gather to enjoy the craftsmanship of fine spirits in a convivial atmosphere.