Women in Distilling: A Tribute to Craft and Collaboration
The world of distilling has long been a space dominated by tradition, precision, and passion. While it has historically been male-driven, women are making significant strides, shaping the craft with their expertise, creativity, and dedication. One such inspiring figure is Debra Spence from Conrad Distilling, whose generosity in sharing her knowledge and time recently made a profound impact on my own journey.
Spending time in the distillery with Debra was an experience filled with discovery and shared passion. Her insight into the art of distilling reinforced the idea that making great spirits is not just about following a process, it’s about understanding the delicate balance of ingredients, patience, and intuition. Her expertise in botanical selection and refinement was instrumental in deepening my appreciation for the craft.
Our Oriental Gin is a testament to this philosophy. This spirit is built on bold and distinctive botanicals, each carefully balanced to create a refined and memorable drinking experience. The challenge in perfecting this gin lay in understanding how the intensity of certain botanicals could either enhance or overpower the final flavour. The key to success? Harmony. By choosing to place some of our more delicate botanicals in the gin basket rather than directly into the pot, we achieved a level of refinement that truly elevated the final product. The result is a gin that stands as my personal favourite, a reflection of careful craftsmanship and thoughtful distillation.
Distilling is more than just a science; it is an art form made richer through collaboration and shared wisdom. I am incredibly grateful to Debra for her time, expertise, and camaraderie. The world of distilling is special because of individuals like her, those who are willing to share, teach, and inspire. Here’s to the women in distilling who continue to push boundaries and craft spirits that leave a lasting impression.
Cheers to the craft and the community that makes it thrive!
