The London Distillery Company (TLDC) says its become the first to successfully distil whiskey in the nation’s capital for more than 100 years, with the launch of its super-premium Rye Whiskey LV-1767 Edition, of which there are only 251 bottles released.
Aged in new English oak barrels, the 4-year-old, twice distilled whiskey is made from 100% rye. Boasting an attractive dark, oaky, burnt toffee liquid at 54.3% ABV, this handcrafted whiskey pays tribute to London’s whiskey production of yesteryear.
An independent craft distilling business based on the ‘Beer Mile’ near Tower Bridge, TLDC was originally founded in 1807 and re-established in 2011. Modern day TLDC has created its Rye Whiskey LV-1767 Edition in recognition of the last company to successfully produce whiskey in London – Lea Valley Distillery.
With the Latin motto ‘De Nobis Fabula Narratur’, meaning “their story is our story” (often used when comparing any current situation to a past story or historical event), TLDC Rye Whiskey LV-1767 Edition has the distinction of being the first whiskey to be distilled in London since the Lea Valley (LV) Distillery (Est. 1767) ceased production in the early 1900s.
TLDC Rye Whiskey LV-1767 Edition boasts a chocolate and roasted coffee aroma, with banana and pear notes following. On the palate it offers intriguing, natural taste tones of rich cinnamon and stewed peaches to complement the peppery beeswax note from the oak. In addition, there are hints of macadamia and some light lemon verbena notes. The finish is a lingering white pepper spice and dark cherry. Recommended best served neat, or with an ice-cube or touch of water to bring out the aromas.
Matt McGivern, Head of Distilling and Operations at TLDC, told Luxury Lifestyle Magazine: “Everyone at the London Distillery Company are so honoured to be re-establishing the distillation of whiskey in London after so many years; when I joined the business the first product I tasted was the Rye unaged and I knew it was special – the team have treated the cask like a precious jewel, and now the hard work of TLDC teams past and present come to bear with the Rye Whiskey LV-1767 Edition and I couldn’t be prouder.
“In new English oak casks the liquid has matured quickly into a beautifully deep and sumptuous drop, with powerful notes from start to finish. We’ve allowed a few highly regarded experts to reaffirm our belief that this is a special liquid and to confirm that this product is truly deserving to be called London’s first Whiskey in a generation.”
For more information or to purchase The London Distillery Company Rye Whiskey LV-1767 Edition, visit londondistillery.com/products/rye-whiskey. Also available to purchase from November at Fortnum & Mason, and other select retailers and whiskey specialists. RRP £251, 70cl.
