Overview: Spirit of Birmingham has established itself as one of more than 70 whisky distilleries operating across England, located in South Yardley. Founded by Anthony and Joanie Dillon, the double garage distillery released a single cask single malt in March after self-funding construction without generational wealth.
The Full Story
The Dillons realized Birmingham lacked a whisky distillery despite its brewing history. They started reading and researching around the idea but found a minimum of £2m was typically needed to build a distillery, which they did not have. When Covid hit, they wanted to see if it was possible to build a distillery self-funded and built the distillery in a double garage at the end of their garden.
Joanie Dillon admitted that what is produced in England is a fraction of what is produced in Scotland. The idea for the business came after the pair realized Birmingham did not have a whisky distillery. They are two kids from Acocks Green whose parents came over from Ireland in the late 60s, bringing stubbornness and that you can do it if you try.
Production & Profile
The single cask single malt released in March requires patience as the spirit had to mature for at least three years before it could legally be called whisky. Anthony Dillon admitted it is not the cleverest business plan when you pick a product that you have to sit on for at least three years.
Concerns were raised regarding GI requirements, specifically a proposal requiring copper pot stills which would affect distilleries using stainless steel equipment like Spirit of Birmingham. English Whisky Guild notes alcohol is being exported to other countries.
Brand & Industry History
The application for a Protected Geographical Indication (GI) for English whisky is currently being considered by the government. Supporters claim the move will help protect English whisky’s reputation and identity, similar to how Cornish pasties are protected. With more than 70 producers across England, the English Whisky Guild added their alcohol was now being exported to other countries.
What This Means
An application for a Protected Geographical Indication (GI) for English whisky is currently being considered by the government. Ministers were considering all the evidence gathered during the statutory assessment process before making a decision and they aimed to announce the outcome in due course. Despite the uncertainty, producers like the Dillons remain optimistic about the future of the sector.
Consumer Takeaway
This bottle offers a single cask single malt from a self-funded garage operation in Birmingham. The spirit must mature for at least three years before legally being called whisky, reflecting the patience required when producing whisky.
Source: Read the original article
