Celebrating Authenticity: The First 'Actually Made In' Distillers Meet in Manchester

Actually Made In / Actually In Person

Introduction to Actually Made In Distillers Meet in Manchester

Last week, we set off for the heart of Manchester for the first-ever 'Actually Made In' distillers meet, hosted by the founders of Manchester Gin, Jen and Seb, at their incredible Spirit of Manchester Distillery. To our surprise, upon arrival in Manchester, we were greeted with beautiful blue skies and spectacular sunshine, perfect for sipping gin!

The Spirit of Manchester Distillery: A Historic Venue

Nestled in the historic Grade II* listed railway arches on Watson Street, Deansgate, sits The Spirit of Manchester Distillery, a fully operational distillery producing a range of award-winning spirits, including recent ventures into whisky. The quirky venue also hosts a Gin School and numerous other experiences that take place under the grandeur of the distillery's largest still, Wonder Wend. Adjoined to the distillery is their beautiful cocktail bar and restaurant, Three Little Words, the setting for the afternoon's event.

Warm Welcome by Seb and Introduction to Fellow Distillers

On arrival, we were greeted by Seb, who quickly whipped us up a delicious Manchester Gin & Tonic and introduced us to our fellow 'Actually Made In' distilleries and distillers.

Actually Made In Campaign: Promoting Authenticity in Distilling

The Actually Made In campaign is an initiative set up to highlight and promote distilleries that produce their products where they say they do, ensuring authenticity and transparency in the industry. Founded by Manchester Gin, Tarquin’s Cornish Gin, Masons of Yorkshire, and Brighton Gin, the campaign aims to support local distilleries, celebrate genuine craftsmanship, and encourage consumers to appreciate and trust the origins of their favourite spirits.

Inspiring Introduction from Jen and Seb

The afternoon began with a light-hearted introduction from Jen and Seb, setting the tone for a warm and engaging event. After a quick hello from all the distillers, it was evident that the passion for genuine craftsmanship was a shared value among everyone present. Over 170 distilleries have applied to be part of the campaign, demonstrating the wide-reaching impact and appeal of the Actually Made In initiative. Distilleries from as far away as New Zealand and other distant corners of the world have shown interest in joining, eager to align themselves with a movement that champions authenticity and transparency in the industry.

Tour of The Spirit of Manchester Distillery

After a quick tour of The Spirit of Manchester Distillery and an exclusive sample of their upcoming whisky, we settled in to sample some more gin. Each distillery was invited to bring a bottle of their own spirit and given the opportunity to talk a little about it.

Masons of Yorkshire: Pioneers of the Actually Made In Initiative

First up, we heard from Karl of Masons of Yorkshire, one of the pioneers of the Actually Made In initiative. He and his wife, Cathy, set up the business in 2013 with a mission to create a truly exceptional gin that reflects the essence of Yorkshire… or Yorkshire Tea, should we say. Karl liked the idea of a dry gin, but the kind of dry you get when drinking black tea, and thus ‘Masons Tea Edition’ was born. A lovely aromatic and spiced gin, lifted by notes of lemon and leading to a long dry, black tea finish. We were also treated to Cathy’s favourite from the Mason product catalogue - Pink Grapefruit & Cucumber Gin. A refreshing tipple bursting with flavour, it offers immediate notes of cooling cucumber contrasted with the punchy, vibrant notes of pink grapefruit, balanced with juniper. A perfect summer drink.

Nelson’s Timur Gin: A Unique Creation

Next up was our very own Megan, Nelson’s Marketing & Social Media Manager. Of course, she brought along our very special Timur Gin, a one-of-a-kind creation and our unique selling point, which got us introductions with master chef Michel Roux Jr and Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt. Made using the Timur berry, a relative of the Szechuan Pepper, its citrusy fragrance features hints of pink grapefruit and soft floral notes that intensify upon tasting. You are immediately met with a sophisticated citrus-like tang, mild peppery heat, and a mouth-numbing sensation courtesy of the Timur pepper. The flavours then mellow to reveal our signature 27-botanical recipe, more formally known as Nelson’s London Dry No.7. It was a huge hit with all the distillers, who expressed their interest in using the ingredient.

Inventors Gin: A Tribute to Victorian Engineering

Last up was the husband and wife team of Inventors Gin, Steven and Andrea Lockhart. Steven, an engineer and inventor, was and still is fascinated with Victorian engineering and was inspired to design his very own copper still. Originally started as a hobby in 2019, the business has gone from strength to strength but still resides in the family garage and is considered one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland. Their recipe draws inspiration from the beautiful landscape that surrounds them, incorporating Ayrshire nettle and heather root, to home-smoked pink pepper and red chilli in reflection of the fiery Industrial Revolution. The gin is smooth with a warming peppery kick.

Sampling and Networking: A Memorable Evening

Once the talks had concluded, everyone was invited to sample one another's spirits with instructions not to drink your own. It was a great way to try the spirits as you would normally enjoy your drink. We were also treated to delicious canapés and nibbles to soak up the alcohol, and the rest of the evening was spent mingling and getting to know one another.

To keep the Actually Made In initiative at the forefront, The Spirit of Manchester Distillery have established National Distillery Day, celebrated every year on the first Friday of August. This day is dedicated to showcasing distilleries that genuinely produce their spirits on-site, emphasising authenticity and transparency within the industry. In honour of this occasion, The Spirit of Manchester Distillery will offer free guided tours and spirit-tasting sessions, giving people the opportunity to go behind the scenes and experience the craftsmanship firsthand.

Conclusion: Celebrating Authenticity and Craftsmanship

The 'Actually Made In' distillers meet was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of authenticity and genuine craftsmanship in the spirits industry. As the sun set over Manchester, we left with new friends, exciting ideas, and a renewed appreciation for the passion that goes into creating truly exceptional spirits. Here's to the next gathering and the continued celebration of all things actually made in!