Published on October 11, 2023.
Handcrafted in Kent.
In 2011, Dr Andy Reason and Dr Norman Lewis decided to leave behind the laboratory for another form of experimentation. They followed their passion for craft spirits and open Kent’s first gin distillery in 200 years and bringing a proud tradition of gin making back to their home county. With one eye on the science behind making quality spirits and another on proudly displaying all that their home county of Kent has to offer, they duly created Anno Distillers and began the journey of a lifetime.
Started in Maidstone and now nestled away in the sleepy yet picturesque village of Marden is where the magic happens. While the journey so far has been a story of success, it hasn’t always been plain sailing. In the early days when Andy, Norman and Kim were bubbling with ideas and enthusiasm they had to endure seemingly endless waits, including an arduous 18-month wait for a licence, but the perseverance paid off. As a celebration of this momentous event, they adorned our beloved 300-litre copper pot still with the name ‘Patience’ as a tribute to those challenging times.
Patience stands proudly as the centrepiece at their distillery, gleaming in all her copper beauty, and every one of Anno’s delicious spirits is still made in her to this day. Since those early days they have continued apace to accumulate much praise from both fans and experts alike, culminating in some outstanding recognition at various awards. They are extremely proud of each one they have received, including Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Awards. Unlike many distillers, the founders’ life-long science background gives them a practical understanding of the equipment capabilities, allowing us to make the highest quality products. They utilise their skills to craft products designed for all customer’s pleasure, full of both intense flavours and subtle notes. But perhaps most of all, each and every one of their employees has a real passion for what they do, helping to ensure that each bottle is bursting with their famous flavours.
In March 2020, the world faced a new challenge as COVID-19 moved in and altered all of our lives. Anno were quick to pivot and start producing Anno Alcohol Hand Rub (sanitiser), using their scientific knowledge and equipment to supply a safe and affordable product in a time of need.
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About the author
Chloe Lewis
Chloe looks after all copywriting and proof-reading for Drink Warehouse UK, working with the Marketing team to deliver educational content to all our customers. She has spent many years in the hospitality sector, moving from behind the bar to now helping venues to stock their own. You can find more from Chloe about beer, cider, spirits, wine, non-alcoholic, soft drinks and RTDs all over our blogs, website, social media and Set The Bar magazine.
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