Summerhall Distillery, East Lothian Travel Guide

Origins and Founding Vision

Summerhall Distillery was born from the shared passion of two friends, Matt Gammel and Marcus Pickering, who inherited a secret gin recipe dating back to 1947. Despite having no prior distilling experience, they built the distillery themselves from scratch in 2013 within the old dog kennels of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. This marked the first exclusive gin distillery established in Edinburgh for over 150 years, reviving a historic tradition in the city.

Historic and Cultural Setting

The distillery is nestled in Summerhall, an arts and events complex that was formerly the University of Edinburgh’s veterinary school. The site is steeped in history, featuring Edwardian Baroque architecture and a rich legacy of educational and cultural use. Today, Summerhall is a vibrant hub for the arts, hosting galleries, theaters, workshops, and festivals, creating a unique atmosphere that blends creativity with craftsmanship.

Craftsmanship and Innovation

Summerhall Distillery operates two 500-litre traditional Portuguese alembic copper stills, named Emily and Gertrude, which have been retrofitted to use hot water baths for heating. This inventive approach reflects the founders’ engineering backgrounds and commitment to quality. The distillery produces a diverse range of spirits, including multiple award-winning gins, cask-aged Scottish gins, flavored gins, rum, and blended and single malt whiskies, continuously innovating while respecting tradition.

Signature Products and Partnerships

Pickering’s Gin, the distillery’s flagship brand, is crafted from the original 1947 recipe, blending fragrant spices and fresh citrus fruits. The Navy Strength Gin, bottled at 57.1% and topped with a distinctive bearskin cap, became the official gin of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Summerhall Distillery has also formed prestigious partnerships with Cunard Cruise Lines and the Royal Yacht Britannia, producing bespoke expressions for their fleets, reflecting a blend of heritage and modernity.

Community and Visitor Experience

Situated within the lively Summerhall arts venue, the distillery is part of a close-knit community that includes a brewery and a bar offering Pickering’s Gin on tap. Visitors can experience the distillery’s unique character, learn about the distilling process, and enjoy tastings that celebrate Edinburgh’s rich spirits heritage. The founders’ story of determination and creativity adds an inspiring narrative to every visit.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

Over a decade since its founding, Summerhall Distillery has grown from a kitchen-table dream into a globally recognized brand. The team’s adaptability was evident during the pandemic when they pivoted to producing hand sanitizer for frontline workers. Looking ahead, the distillery continues to expand its offerings, including the launch of a blended Scotch whisky and plans for new spirits, maintaining its role as a dynamic force in Scotland’s distilling landscape.