Bimber Distillery is a renowned whisky distillery located in London, England, celebrated for its artisanal approach to crafting spirits. The name "Bimber" derives from the Polish word for moonshine, reflecting the founders' heritage and their dedication to traditional distillation techniques. Founded by Darius and Ewelina, who immigrated to London from Poland in 2003, Bimber Distillery began as a small venture in West London before evolving into a respected producer of single malt whisky, gin, and other spirits.

Whisky Production

The heart of Bimber's operations lies in its meticulous whisky production, modeled closely on Scottish traditions. The distillery sources its barley primarily from a local farm in Hampshire, chosen for its optimal maritime climate, conducive to barley cultivation. Varieties such as Concerto and Laureate are selected for their high extract and fermentability, contributing to the complexity of Bimber's whisky profiles.

Malted barley is obtained from Warminster Maltings, the oldest malthouse in the UK, where it undergoes natural germination and drying processes on traditional malting floors. This hands-on approach allows each batch of barley to develop its distinct characteristics before being transported to the distillery.

The mashing process at Bimber involves converting barley starch into sugars through a careful blending of grist and hot water. The resulting "wort" is transferred to wooden washbacks made from American oak, where it undergoes a prolonged fermentation period of seven days. This extended fermentation, along with a specially developed yeast strain, contributes to the light, fruity character of Bimber's whisky.

Distillation at Bimber occurs in two small copper pot stills—Doris and Astraeus—which are heated directly with fire, a method chosen for its ability to maximize copper contact and refine the spirit. The wash still, Doris, produces a slightly fruity "low wine," which is then distilled a second time in Astraeus to produce a more concentrated spirit. Only the "heart" of the distillate, characterized by its purity and richness, is retained for maturation.

Bimber's maturation process takes place in a variety of casks, including American oak and European sherry casks, as well as fresh Virgin Oak casks. The distillery's onsite cooperage ensures that each cask is meticulously inspected, repaired, and prepared to enhance the whisky's flavor profile. The use of smaller casks allows for increased wood interaction, resulting in a diverse range of whiskies with unique tasting notes.

Gin Production

In addition to whisky, Bimber Distillery produces distinctive gins that highlight unique botanicals and flavors. The Da Hong Pao Tea Gin features the rare Da Hong Pao tea, known for its earthy and floral notes, while the Kumquat Gin combines citrus fruits with classic juniper, offering a tart and sweet profile. Both gins exemplify Bimber's commitment to craftsmanship and innovation in the spirits industry.

History and Legacy

Bimber Distillery's roots trace back three generations to Poland, where Darius's grandfather distilled schnapps during the communist era. This familial tradition inspired Darius and Ewelina to pursue their passion for distilling in London, culminating in the establishment of Bimber Distillery in 2015. Since its inception, Bimber has garnered acclaim for its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and the art of whisky making.

Visitor Experience

Bimber Distillery welcomes visitors to explore its production facilities through various guided tours, including tastings of Bimber's vodka, gin, rum, and whisky offerings. The "Distillery Experience" provides insights into Bimber's production techniques, while the "Whisky Connoisseur Experience" offers a deeper dive into the maturation and tasting of Bimber's single malt whiskies.

Conclusion

Bimber Distillery stands as a testament to the founders' vision and commitment to producing exceptional spirits rooted in tradition and innovation. With a focus on quality ingredients, meticulous craftsmanship, and a passion for distillation, Bimber continues to captivate enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with its distinctive range of whiskies, gins, and spirits.