First British vodka distilled from grapes

Chilgrove Spirits will launch Chilgrove Vodka in October. This special edition, neutral vodka will be the first UK vodka to be distilled from a grape alcohol base. As with Chilgrove Gin (launched in Summer 2014), there is no grape flavour, but its production makes it extremely smooth, with an elegant crisp character.

Pre-orders for batch no.1 of Chilgrove Vodka are being taken now via wholesalers. There are only 3,500 individually numbered bottles. It is 40%ABV, and the guide retail price will be £29 to £35 for a 70cl bottle.

The bottle design for Chilgrove Vodka is in keeping with that of Chilgrove Gin, with an elegant streamlined angular bottle, a weighty, quality feel and a black diamond label. The back label features serving suggestions such as a Vodka Collins, Vodka Martini and Bloody Mary.

Chilgrove Vodka marries crystal clear natural mineral water, filtered through the chalky Sussex Downs which surround the hamlet of Chilgrove, together with a neutral spirit distilled from grapes. Charles Maxwell, master distiller for Chilgrove Vodka, adds his tasting notes: “Chilgrove Vodka is clean and soft on the nose with just a hint of fruit. On the palate it is smooth and soft with very slight earthy notes. It has a good long smooth lingering finish. A superior vodka!”

Christopher Beaumont-Hutchings, co-founder of Chilgrove Spirits, says: “The success of our first product Chilgrove Gin has led to this early launch of our second ‘gloriously English’ Chilgrove spirit - Chilgrove Vodka. Trade experts and discerning consumers have been fascinated by its production using grape distilled alcohol, and appreciate how this improves the resulting spirit. The benefits of using the grape base in Chilgrove Vodka can be enjoyed in a simple vodka and tonic mix, and in the coming months we will be perfecting our ‘gloriously English’ signature cocktails and working closely with bars and pubs to trial their own”.  

4 September 2015 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor