English distillery Witchmark has unveiled a rare glimpse into its future whisky production with the release of just 300 bottles of new make spirit. The Wiltshire-based producer, which filled its first whisky casks in 2024, offers spirits enthusiasts an early taste of what’s aging in its warehouses.
Witchmark Distillery’s Estate-Grown Spirit Shows Promise
The B Corp-certified distillery’s Single Origin New Make Spirit: Distiller’s Cut arrives at 60% ABV and £54. Made entirely from barley grown on the 9,000-acre Fonthill Estate where the distillery sits, the spirit represents Witchmark’s grain-to-glass approach.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
The production process emphasizes local sourcing and careful distillation. Water comes from chalk aquifers beneath Wiltshire’s downs. Fermentation occurs slowly with controlled temperatures to preserve malt flavors. The distillery uses generous cut points during distillation to create what they describe as a light, fruity spirit.
According to the official tasting notes, the new make delivers fresh, clean malty notes on the nose. The palate offers gentle warmth without alcohol prickle, presenting smooth and creamy characteristics with toasted biscuit notes and hints of apple tart. The finish provides long, textural qualities with rich creaminess that lingers.
Witchmark Distillery Charts Path to 2027 Whisky Release
Eddie Large, Co-Founder and Head Distiller, states: “At Witchmark we believe great whisky starts with great raw materials, which is why we’re so proud that our Distiller’s Cut New Make Spirit is crafted from barley grown on the Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire. It’s creamy, smooth, and already full of character, a true reflection of the land and our distilling principles.”
The distillery operates from a 17th-century barn marked with medieval witch marks, which inspired its name. While waiting for its whisky to mature for the required three years, Witchmark produces award-winning gins and a gold medal-winning Single Origin Vodka.
Must Read Stories
The company has assembled an advisory team including James Espey OBE, who launched Johnnie Walker Blue Label, and Alan Rutherford OBE, formerly of Diageo. Master Blender Colin Scott brings 47 years of experience from Chivas Brothers.
The Witchmark Single Origin New Make Spirit: Distiller’s Cut is now available via the distillery website. The release offers whisky enthusiasts an opportunity to taste the base spirit that will eventually become Witchmark’s inaugural single malt in 2027.
