In the heart of the Lake District, just a short drive from the Scottish borders, The Lakes Distillery is redefining the future of English whisky. With the launch of Signature, a sherry-led single malt, marking a new chapter in its evolution, one shaped by premium craftsmanship, a pioneering mindset, and the influence of ex-Macallan whiskymaker Sarah Burgess.
Founded in 2011, The Lakes Distillery has never hidden its ambition to challenge the norms of whisky-making. While many look north of the border for tradition, this English distillery has long been focused on innovation. Over the past decade, it has released a string of limited expressions, drawing increasing acclaim, including global recognition when Whiskymaker’s Reserve No. 4 was named World’s Best Single Malt at the 2022 World Whiskies Awards.
But with Signature, The Lakes makes its first permanent addition to the core range, a whisky that encapsulates both the distillery’s history and its future direction. Crafted under the guidance of Sarah Burgess, who joined from The Macallan in 2023, Signature reflects a refined evolution in style. It is deeply influenced by élevage, a technique more commonly associated with winemaking and Cognac. Rather than leaving whisky to age passively in cask, élevage demands continual intervention, moving casks, blending across styles, and optimising flavour through hands-on maturation.
Signature is bottled at 47% ABV and presented in The Lakes’ distinctive packaging, complete with water-inspired detailing that reflects the surrounding natural beauty. The whisky itself is rich, layered, and unmistakably shaped by the distillery’s house style: elegant, sherry-driven, and meticulously crafted.
This launch also comes during a significant period of transformation. In 2024, The Lakes Distillery joined the Nyetimber Group, the renowned English sparkling wine producer. Both brands are aligned in their pursuit of quality and sustainability.
From circular production practices to renewable energy, sustainability is now embedded in The Lakes’ long-term vision. It’s a strategy that resonates with today’s discerning consumer. Signature is more than just a new bottle on the shelf. It’s a statement of intent. The Lakes Distillery is positioning itself not as a follower of tradition but as a leader of a new generation of whisky makers, one that draws inspiration from wine and dares to push boundaries.
The Lakes Distillery Signature Single Malt Whisky is available now from: lakesdistillery.com
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