For this feature, we look into wine merchant David McWilliam’s Padstow Distilling. Although relatively young compared to other drinks makers, the company is already garnering significant attention thanks to its small batch of Cornish spirits, which uses local barley farmed on the North Cornwall coastline.

Launched in 2018, Padstow Distilling has become a year-round must-visit destination for gin and vodka lovers exploring the area. The company’s HQ and bar, which is located at 17 Duke Street in Padstow, has evolved into a hub for those on the hunt for a unique and authentic taste of Cornwall.

Amongst its range of award-winning spirits, Padstow Gin is probably the stand-out in Padstow Distilling’s portfolio, as it is a testament to the dedication of David McWilliam and his passionate team.

This hand-distilled gin is only produced in small batches and captures the essence of Cornwall thanks to its use of locally sourced natural ingredients.

Unlike most other drinks makers, Padstow Distilling produces its own grain-based neutral spirit (GNS), using coastal barley, which has been grown and foraged from above the beach at St. George’s Well on the Camel Estuary.

According to the drinks maker, its botanical recipe combines tradition with the beauty of its location and blends juniper, citrus, and pepper with local Alexanders, an ancient coastal plant foraged from the cliffs above the same beach on the western side of the estuary.

Experience more than just the taste
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Padstow Distilling welcomes visitors to its shop and bar on Duke Street.

From here, David and his team run guided walks along the estuary to take in the sights, sounds and scents of this special place – the inspiration for this range of beautiful spirits.

About the Founder
David McWilliam started his career as a 17-year-old wine waiter. Since then, he has made it his mission to create high-quality drinks that come with a sense of history and origin.

David’s deep-rooted passion for Cornwall and his keen interest in exploring new flavours were two of the things that led him to establish Padstow Distilling.

The spirits he and his team create are a reflection of the region’s beauty and bring back the memories of the North Cornwall coastline and the busy streets of Padstow to those who drink them.

Awards
As mentioned at the beginning of this feature, Padstow Distilling’s spirits have quickly garnered global recognition.

The accolades already bestowed on it include its original Padstow Gin’ St. George’s Well’ and Padstow Vodka earning SILVER MEDALs, and Padstow Gin Navy’ Stepper Point’ winning a DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022.

In addition to the above, the Padstow Rose Gin’ Hawker’s Cove’ was also a recipient of a GOLD MEDAL at the same prestigious competition.

Padstow Distilling – Where and how?

For in-person visits, the company’s Headquarters and bar are located at 17 Duke Street in Padstow, PL28 8AB.

Opening Hours: Seven days a week (all year round) from 10 am to 10 pm daily.

Ordering: The prices per a 70cl bottle start at £40 for Padstow Vodka, and the prices for the Padstow gin range start from £48. In addition, the distiller also offers 50cl Limited Edition runs of Spiced Cranberry and Orange Gin and Sloe Gin available from £38.

You can read more information on Padstow Distilling, along with details of its range of spirits, at www.padstowspirits.co.uk.