Shakespeare Distillery has expanded its business in the town centre and opened a brand-new experiences space which will create an additional 6 jobs. The independent artisan spirit producer has taken a long-term lease at No 1 High Street in Stratford-upon-Avon which houses their retail shop on the ground floor.
Initially seen as a pop-up shop, Shakespeare Distillery has converted two additional floors above the retail premises into a Rum School and Tasting room named ‘Judith’s’. It is due to the success of the Distillery Tours and Gin School at their premises in Drayton Manor Drive, Stratford-upon-Avon that Shakespeare Distillery have added a second site to fulfil that demand.
No 1 High Street occupies a fantastic retail and iconic location and was once home to Judith Shakespeare, daughter of William Shakespeare. Shakespeare Distillery products are of course inspired by the Tudor period, which is ingrained in the history of the town. The cellar within the building is said to have been part of an early gaol known for a period from c1470 as The Cage.
Judith’s opened last weekend to coincide with Stratford-upon-Avon Food Festival which took place from 30 September – 2 October. During the festival Judith’s opened to members of the public so they could explore the new space. The team were on hand providing samples and ran a series of free mini cocktail classes for all to enjoy.
Shakespeare Distillery have also launched a new Limited-Edition Pink Gin to celebrate the opening of Judith’s. Judith’s Premium Pink Gincombines pink peppercorns and hibiscus with refreshing citrus and the natural sweetness of raspberries and blackberries. After distillation the gin is steeped in fresh raspberries to create a beautifully natural pink gin. In Tudor times pink meant ‘the pinnacle of perfection’. It is recommended that the Gin is served with Elderflower Tonic or Light Indian Tonic Water, ice and a slice of lemon.
Peter Monks, Director at Shakespeare Distillery said
“Stratford-upon-Avon is once again a busy and vibrant town after the pandemic and so now presents the perfect opportunity for us to expand our business. Having a tasting room in town will make it easier for our customers to try our products and it also gives residents the opportunity to visit with their friends and family. We look forward to starting an exciting new chapter, not only for the Distillery but for this historic building!”
Shakespeare Distillery have been successfully distilling Gin for the last six years on their own premises and began distilling their own brand of British Rum in 2021 creating a White Rum named ‘Jester’ and a Spiced Rum to add to their portfolio of premium, handcrafted products. Whilst the gin boom in the UK continues there are signs that the rum market is starting to grow at a faster rate. Shakespeare Distillery are one of a small handful of UK distilleries to create their rum onsite and there are only a small number of Rum Schools in the UK.
Gin Tasting at Judith’s will be open every weekend at 2pm and 4pm. Please find more information and how to book at https://shakespearedistillery.com/experiences/gin-tasting-at-judiths/
For more information about Shakespeare Distillery please visit http://www.shakespearedistillery.com/