Downton Distillery
Downton Distillery was established in 2019 by Hugh Anderson. The distillery was originally based in a 14th Century former carriage shed at Downton Manor in Wiltshire, a former home of Sir Walter Raleigh, before moving locally in 2021 to a former carpentry shed on the Domaine Hugo Vineyard on the Wiltshire and Hampshire border. Their flagship Explorer's Gin is made in 100 bottle batches and is inspired by the ‘Golden Age of Exploration’ in the 15th-17th centuries, when European ships travelled around the world discovering new countries and trading routes. Downton Distillery regularly supports and collaborates with modern day explorers and adventurers, as well as being dedicated to sustainability and involvement in rewilding projects. 

Explorer's Gin (44% ABV)

  • Botanicals: 15 botanicals including juniper, angelica seed, Western Red Cedar, lemon, orange, grapefruit, pink peppercorn, Szechuan pepper, verbena, fennel, liquorice. Base Spirit: Wheat.
  • Serving Suggestion: Gin & Tonic with a garnish of Orange or Red Grapefruit, or in a Negroni, Gin-Gin Mule, or Red Snapper.
  • Tasting Notes: Aromas of piney juniper, citrus, fennel and herbal notes. Juniper and mixed citrus on the palate, with peppery spice and earthy undertones. A finish of lingering herbal notes and liquorices, with a kick of warming Szechuan pepper.
The Gin Guide Review: Explorer's Gin harmoniously brings together classic gin characteristics with a contemporary twist. Familiar juniper, mixed citrus and liquorice are joined by Western Red Cedar which enhances the pine notes, fennel which adds a herbal element, and a kick of warming pepper spice that emerges through the lingering finish. It's a gin with complexity and depth and that is engaging through having clearly identifiable characteristics and stages along the flavour journey. With Tonic Water, juniper and citrus peel notes are elevated alongside verbena and lingering fennel for a characterful G&T. - Paul Jackson, 2020

Also available from Downton Distillery

  • Explorer's Gin Eco-Refill Pouches (2L or 5L)
  • Chardonnay Vodka (40% ABV)
  • Hazelnut Vodka (40% ABV)

Meet the Maker

"Our beautiful bottle tells the story of the ‘Golden Era of Discovery’ where Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh established new trade routes, that eventually allowed Britain to become a maritime sea power. From these trade routes Raleigh brought back tobacco and potatoes from America. The navigation lines, the rose compass and the blue ocean colour reflect this spirit of adventure." - Hugh Anderson, Founder & Distiller

Behind the Scenes

In August 2023, The Gin Guide had the pleasure of visiting Downton Distillery to catch up with Hugh, to get to know all about the history and stories behind the distillery, to hear all about the plans for the future, to take in the stunning scenery, and to enjoy learning all about the still, production processes, and botanicals. Read on for a sneak peek of the distillery or book a Tour & Tasting or Foraging Course to visit in person.
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For more Hampshire gins and distilleries in Hampshire, visit our Hampshire Gin Guide.
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