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12:00 AM 15th June 2024
lifestyle

Ad Gefrin’s IWSC Wins And Distiller’s Harpers 30 Under 30 Honour

Ad Gefrin Distillery by Day 
Photo:© Sally Ann Norman
Ad Gefrin Distillery by Day Photo:© Sally Ann Norman
In just 12 months since opening to the public, England’s northernmost distillery, Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery, has won three medals in the highly competitive spirits category at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) including the highly contested World Whiskies section. The IWSC follows a rigorous double-blind tasting process conducted by a panel of world-renowned judges with over 50 years of experience.

The wins come hard on the heels of Distiller Fran Jones being recognised in Harpers Wine & Spirit’s prestigious 30 Under 30 List; an accolade that celebrates up-and-coming talent and future leaders within the UK's wine and spirit industry. The list was announced on 20th May at a special presentation during the London Wine Fair, one of the industry's most significant events.

Award-Winning Spirits:

Tácnbora Northumbrian Blended Whisky – Silver Medal 2024 (90 Points)

Tácnbora, meaning "the standard bearer" in Old English is Ad Gefrin's inaugural offering and a signature spirit of ancient hospitality. This evocative blend brings together Irish grain whiskey and Scottish grain and malt whiskies. Aged in ex-bourbon, virgin American oak, and oloroso sherry casks, Tácnbora boasts a distinctive character with a harmonious balance of flavours. Bottled at 42.7%, this whisky reflects the heritage and landscape that inspired Ad Gefrin’s Anglo-Saxon forebears, celebrating the unassailable bond to the Northumbrian Golden Age.


Corenkyn Blended Malt Whisky – Bronze Medal 2024 (89 Points)

This spirit is a special release available exclusively to Ad Gefrin’s founding membership scheme it’s named after, Corenkyn – meaning ‘chosen family’ in Old English. This Northumbrian Blended Whisky combines Scottish, English, Irish, and Swedish malt whiskies, creating a rich and complex profile. Bottled at 46.3%, Corenkyn Blended Malt Whisky offers a captivating nose of vanilla, dried figs, malt, and chocolate, with a palate of clover wax, honey, candied ginger, and dried fruit, and a finish of nutty bran, coconut, and oak. The blend is aged in ex-bourbon casks, embodying the spirit of community and heritage cherished by Ad Gefrin.


Corenkyn members, are embraced at the heart of Ad Gefrin and receive exclusive benefits such as ownership of the inaugural collection, first access to single malts, early bird access to new spirit launches, and exclusive access to cask purchases. Membership also includes bespoke gifts, event invitations, lifelong access to tours, discounts on all purchases and recognition within the distillery’s building.

David Burdus, a proud Corenkyn member, shared his experience:
“I have to say the Corenkyn blend whisky from Ad Gefrin is simply the perfect spirit for friendship and feasting - it’s light with scents of vanilla, honey and cacao, on the tongue comes toffee apple and salted caramel, then there’s the aftertaste of cream soda and hint of a chilli tingle. As an Ad Gefrin Corenkyn, I am more than a member, I am a custodian of liquid history in the making!”


Thirlings Gin – Bronze Medal 2024 (89 Points)

Thirlings Gin, Ad Gefrin’s second spirit to be launched publicly, is a classic dry gin with an Anglo-Saxon heart and Northumbrian soul. Crafted with botanicals that echo the natural surroundings of Northumberland, including heather, pine, elderberry, dill, Irish moss, and sea buckthorn, Thirlings Gin captures the essence of the county from coast to the Cheviot Hills. Bottled at 43.6%, this gin presents a profile heavy on juniper with pine and citrus notes, complemented by hints of cinnamon, spice, and earthy florals. The palate evolves from sweet to green herbal flavours, culminating in a full-bodied finish with citrus, juniper, and a saline twist.



Fran Jone
Fran Jone
Fran Jones Named in Harpers Wine & Spirits 30 Under 30:

Announced at the London Wine Fair, Fran Jones, 28, further established herself as a formidable force in the traditionally male-dominated drinks industry. Her innovative approach and unwavering determination have made her a standout nominee.

With a background in biomedical science from Newcastle University and experience from Three Wren Gin Distillery, Fran has excelled at Ad Gefrin, achieving significant milestones and enriching the distillery’s operations.

Fran expressed her joy, stating:
“I am over the moon to have been recognised by Harpers Wine & Spirit. I’m grateful for the support of my colleagues at Ad Gefrin and looking forward to a bright future here as I continue to develop and grow as a distiller.”


Ad Gefrin

Ad Gefrin's achievements at the IWSC 2024 and Fran Jones' recognition underscore their commitment to crafting spirits that celebrate their rich heritage and the vibrant present, positing them as a distinguished player in the global spirits industry.

Three medals for our first three releases is a great honour and a great starting point, it shows that what we are doing is being well received and gives a great platform to now push on from with future blends and ultimately with our single malt. We are inspired by our past, and respectful of traditional methods, but committed to innovation and creating contemporary spirits that bring people together to share. I couldn’t be more proud that Fran has embraced our passion, and I am sure she will go on from strength to strength supporting myself and the Ad Gefrin team in creating outstanding spirits synonymous with timeless hospitality. Ben Murphy, Director of Distilling at Ad Gefrin

Ad Gefrin - Credit Lazy Grace large
Ad Gefrin - Credit Lazy Grace large
We at the p.ublished group of online newspapers are always ready to try a new whisky that makes its debut on our patch. This Tácnbora, with its strong Northumbrian provenance, was a delight, and we relished it. A blend of malt and grain whiskies, aged in virgin American oak and Oloroso sherry casks, creates this distinctive and palatable spirit.

It is smooth, mellow, and flavorful, with an excellent nose where honey and hints of vanilla come through. Apple and spice flavours characterise the taste, and the distillery notes describe a creamy soda feel that lingers in the mouth. It is delicious. The aftertaste is a delightful accompaniment that lingers on the palate, leaving a sweet honey and fruity taste that is impressive and one to savour.

It compares well to the fine Japanese blends and is a serious contender to match the best of the blends coming on the market. It should definitely be tasted and relished. We can’t wait for the malt to hit the shelves.