In the heart of the scenic Lea Valley, the Lea Valley Gin Distillery has carved its niche as an artisanal beacon, handcrafting exceptional gins in limited batches. This ensures that every bottle encapsulates the pure essence of dedication, producing some of the most refined spirits in the industry.
Established in 2020, the distillery has a fascinating origin. The founders relocated to the lower Lea Valley in 2019, only to confront the challenges of the ensuing pandemic. Instead of being overwhelmed, they found solace in the valley's rich history and diverse leisure activities. With ample time on hand and driven by fervent passion, they embarked on a journey to master the art of distillation, aspiring to create a gin that would not only compete with other small-batch distilleries but also celebrate the essence of the Lea Valley. What began as a side project to divert from the global crisis, metamorphosed into a pursuit of excellence, delivering sumptuous gin flavours via the single-shot distillation method.
Nine months after its inception, the distillery reached a significant milestone, producing its first bottles that met its impeccable standards. The decision to name it 'The Lea Valley Gin Distillery' was intuitive, a tribute to the valley's awe-inspiring natural beauty, the legacy left by the Victorians, and the blend of modern recreational, cultural, and sporting establishments that punctuate the landscape.
The distillery takes pride in its meticulously curated botanical recipe, paying homage to the Lea Valley. Eleven select botanical ingredients, including juniper, angelica root, and coriander, amongst others, form the backbone of their gins. These botanicals are steeped in a neutral grain spirit for up to 48 hours before distillation, ensuring the extraction of their full, natural flavours.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of their operations. With initiatives like using 100% recyclable bottles and labels, composting post-distillation botanicals, and ongoing efforts to make their packaging eco-friendly, they’re making strides towards a more sustainable future.
Today, the Lea Valley Gin Distillery is synonymous with a love for gin, exemplified by their products like the aromatic Lemongrass and Lavender Gin and the robust “Navvy” (not a typo!) Strength Gin, inspired by the hardworking Navigational engineers of yore. As they continue their journey, they promise innovation, maintaining their commitment to quality, and a nod to the legacy and beauty of the Lea Valley.