Portobello Road Distillery, nestled in the heart of London's Notting Hill, stands as a testament to the city's enduring love affair with gin. This contemporary distillery has swiftly carved out a niche for itself in the booming gin market with its artisanal approach to gin production, combining traditional techniques with modern innovation.
Establishment and Ethos
Founded by gin aficionados Ged Feltham, Jake Burger, and Paul Lane in 2011, Portobello Road Distillery emerged from the founders' shared passion for gin and its rich history in London. Housed above the iconic 'The Portobello Star' – a historic pub dating back to the 19th century – the distillery is more than just a production site; it's a celebration of London's gin heritage. The distillery is committed to crafting high-quality spirits that pay homage to classic London dry gin while embracing contemporary tastes and styles.
Distinctive Gin Production
Portobello Road Distillery’s flagship product is the Portobello Road No. 171 Gin, named after the address of its birthplace. This gin is a blend of nine botanicals, including juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, and citrus peels, resulting in a classic yet versatile flavour profile. The distillation process is meticulously carried out in small batches, ensuring quality and consistency in each bottle.
The Ginstitute Experience
One of the key attractions of Portobello Road Distillery is 'The Ginstitute', which offers visitors an immersive gin experience. Here, guests can learn about the history of gin in London, explore the nuances of different botanicals, and even create their bespoke bottle of gin. The Ginstitute embodies the distillery's dedication to education and appreciation of gin, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Expanding Product Range
In addition to its signature gin, Portobello Road Distillery has expanded its range to include other spirits and liqueurs, showcasing the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. This includes a navy strength gin, a sloe gin, and limited edition releases that often feature unique botanicals or collaboration with other craft producers.
Commitment to Sustainability
Portobello Road Distillery places a strong emphasis on sustainability, both in its production processes and its choice of packaging materials. The distillery aims to minimise its environmental impact, reflecting a growing trend in the spirits industry towards more sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Awards and Recognition
Since its inception, Portobello Road Distillery has received numerous accolades and awards for its gins, a testament to the quality and innovation of its products. These accolades have helped to establish the distillery as a prominent player in London's competitive gin market.
Global Reach
While deeply rooted in London, Portobello Road Distillery’s gins have found a following beyond the UK. The distillery’s commitment to the traditional art of gin-making, combined with a modern approach, has appealed to international audiences, making it a notable brand in the global spirits market.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Portobello Road Distillery is well-positioned for continued growth and innovation. As the global appetite for craft spirits and unique gin experiences grows, the distillery is poised to expand its influence and continue its tradition of producing high-quality, artisanal gins.