CopperPot Distilleries - Meet the Makers

Get to know the stories and team behind CopperPot Distilleries in St. Leonards-on-Sea in East Sussex. We caught up with founder Dionne Tester to find out more about their gins and the distillery, how it all started, Dionne's 'Desert Island' gins, and the plans for the future.

What did you do before establishing CopperPot Distilleries?

I was as secondary science teacher with a creative flare.

What made you decide to produce gins?
After going on a gin tour I realised that it is all science-based and that there is in fact an art to getting the correct balance. I then found the 'Gin Craze’ of the 1700s to be an interesting period of time of history - hence the bowler man in our logo. I was inspired to take gin back to a time where its skill was appreciated.

What is the story behind the CopperPot Distilleries brand name?

Copper pots are what make great gin so great - the copper removes the sulphates making it smoother and more enjoyable.

Can you tell us more about your distillery and yours still?

We wanted to go as traditional as possible and with the most copper possible to make a smooth gin. We started with a 2L still (Belle), then a 10L still (Ami), and then a 60L still (Missy). Missy got her name as when she first arrived and was built she had missing parts!

Can you tell us more about your distillation process?

All the botanicals are put into the still with the spirit and are pulled through very very slowly, allowing as much reflux back into the still as possible. This is all focused around making the spirit as smooth as possible.

Is your distillery open to the public for tours?

We are looking to open for distillery tours with tastings and a Gin School in the middle of 2025.

What is your ambition for CopperPot Distilleries in the years to come?

To be the local pouring option in most pubs and to have people coming to Hastings to see and experience the distillery.​

What are your favourite ways to drink your gins?

Over ice with a Mediterranean Tonic, a slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary 

Desert Island Gins: Which 3 gins would you take with you and why?

• Harley House Gin
• Tarquin's Gin
• Roku Gin 

Two premium gins which are smooth with great flavour profiles, and one that comes from a different base - because variety is the spice of life.

What's next for you and CopperPot Distilleries - any exciting plans?
To have a bigger distillery that is working to supply lots of establishments and people with great gin, and to open our doors to the public and teach people about the greatness of gin and the art of making it.

You Might Also Like...

• Review: The Gin Guide's tasting notes and review of CopperPot Distilleries Gin.
• Buy Online: Direct from CopperPot Distilleries.