Summerhall Distillery: Edinburgh’s Pioneering Gin Heritage

Reviving Edinburgh’s Gin Legacy

Summerhall Distillery stands as a landmark in Edinburgh’s spirits scene, reopening a chapter that had been dormant for more than a century and a half. Founded in 2014 by lifelong friends Matt Gammel and Marcus Pickering, the distillery was born from a passion for gin and a serendipitous discovery of a 1947 gin recipe passed down through Marcus’s family. This recipe inspired the creation of Pickering’s Gin, a brand that quickly gained acclaim for its smooth, aromatic profile blending fragrant spices and fresh citrus fruits reminiscent of the Raj era.

From Dog Kennels to Distilling Excellence

The distillery’s home is as unique as its spirits. Situated within the historic Summerhall Arts complex—formerly the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies—the distillery occupies the old dog kennels, ingeniously transformed by Matt and Marcus themselves. Their engineering backgrounds proved invaluable in retrofitting two 500-litre traditional Portuguese alembic stills, affectionately named Emily and Gertrude, which use innovative water bath heating. This blend of craftsmanship and creativity has allowed Summerhall to produce a diverse range of spirits, including gin, rum, and blended and single malt whiskies.

A Hub of Creativity and Community

Summerhall is more than a distillery; it is embedded in a thriving arts and cultural hub. The site hosts galleries, theaters, studios, and eateries, fostering a vibrant atmosphere that spills into the distillery’s ethos. Adjacent to the distillery is The Royal Dick bar, where visitors can enjoy Pickering’s Gin on tap, directly piped from the production facility. This connection between production and community exemplifies Summerhall’s commitment to inclusivity and local engagement.

Innovations and Partnerships

Since its inception, Summerhall Distillery has been at the forefront of innovation. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the team pivoted to produce over 200,000 litres of hand sanitiser to support frontline workers. The distillery also boasts prestigious collaborations, such as creating the official gin for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and bespoke gins for Cunard Cruise Line’s flagship vessels. These partnerships underscore the distillery’s reputation for quality and its deep ties to Scottish heritage.

The Spirit of Pickering’s Gin

Pickering’s Gin itself is a testament to tradition meeting modernity. Its recipe, hidden for decades, was revived and refined to suit contemporary palates while maintaining its original character. The distillery’s range includes the iconic Navy Strength Gin, bottled at 57.1% ABV and adorned with a bearskin cap, and a variety of cask-aged and flavored expressions. Each bottle reflects the founders’ dedication to quality and storytelling through spirits.

Visiting Summerhall Distillery Today

Visitors to Summerhall Distillery can immerse themselves in the story of Edinburgh’s gin revival. The distillery offers a glimpse into the artisanal process, the history behind its spirits, and the vibrant cultural scene surrounding it. Whether sampling their award-winning gins or exploring the artistic venues nearby, guests experience a unique fusion of heritage, innovation, and community spirit in one of Edinburgh’s most dynamic neighborhoods.