Drink of the month: English whisky

With 40 active distilleries spanning the country and production rapidly expanding, English whisky is booming – the result of a revival that started in 2003 with the creation of Hicks and Healeys in Cornwall (prior to this the last English whisky distillery closed its doors in 1905). In the years since, a wave of maverick distillers have created whiskies using innovative, diverse techniques and materials, from classic single malts to spicy rye whiskies.

The English Whisky Guild launched this year to enhance awareness of English whisky and showcase its quality and diversity. The guild, which currently has 15 members, is also working to define the technical standards for what constitutes English whisky (its northern neighbour, Scotch whisky, is governed by a strict set of rules covering areas such as ingredients and ageing), as well as supporting producers, focussing on sustainability and creating platforms and spaces for people to enjoy English whisky. englishwhiskyguild.com

Try it: The English Whisky Co is an industry pioneer and the establishment of its St George’s Distillery in 2006 signalled the renaissance of English whisky. It recently released what it claims is the oldest English whisky publicly available for sale – a 15-yearold single malt. Matured in oloroso sherry casks, it has aromas of dried fruits, alongside opulent flavours of cherries, chocolate and figs. Retailing at £295, it’s definitely a special occasion purchase but the rest of the distillery’s excellent offering comes in a range of price points. We love the creamy, smooth and highly drinkable The Norfolk Parched Single Grain Whisky (£49/70cl, englishwhisky.co.uk).

Check out more English whiskies at

Omagazine.com.