The Wharf Story
We are an independent small-batch copper-pot distillery producing a range of exciting spirits and liqueurs from our location in the old market town of Towcester in South Northamptonshire. We are one of England’s smallest whisky distilleries and distil apple brandy from locally sourced apples. We also have a range of single malts, gin, vodka and rum, all crafted by hand to create the highest quality spirits.
Our Passionate Team
Visitors to the distillery can expect personalised experiences, often guided by Laurence himself. These tours delve into the distillery’s history, production methods, and the stories behind each spirit, offering an intimate glimpse into the craftsmanship that defines Wharf Distillery. In essence, the Wharf Distillery team combines technical expertise, creative innovation, and a deep-seated passion for quality, establishing themselves as true experts in the art of spirit-making.
Meet The Team
At the heart of Wharf Distillery is a small but passionate team of artisan makers. With a deep-rooted love for traditional craft and a fearless approach to innovation, this dedicated team handcrafts every spirit from scratch—fermenting, distilling, and bottling with care and precision right here in Towcester, Northamptonshire.From award-winning cider beginnings to becoming one of England’s smallest independent distilleries, the team’s expertise spans decades of fermentation, distillation, and blending. Each member brings a unique blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and local pride—ensuring that every bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and uncompromising quality.
Laurence
Founder & Managing Director
Over four decades, Laurence’s career has journeyed from cartography and biological surveying to IT service management. Yet throughout, he remained fascinated by the craft of alcohol production – a passion that first took shape in 1995 with cider and, by 2012, grew into a full-fledged business. What began with a single spirit has since expanded to whisky and evolved into the diverse portfolio that Wharf Distillery offers today.
Alice
Owner & Director
Alice provides the creative force behind Wharf Distillery as well as managing our bottling and fulfilment capabilities. Alice is a whizz on the social media where her images of the distillery and products bring our Instagram and Facebook pages to life.
Nick
Distiller
Nick joined us on a cider-making course several years ago, and jumped when the opportunity arose to become a part-time distiller. Having joined us in 2019, he now distills everything from our signature Apple Brandy to our award-winning Gins.
Irene
Retired
Sadly for us, Irene has now retired but she has a whole host of fun to look forward to when she moves down to Kent to be near her daughter and the seaside. However, her photo is staying on here to remind us of her perpetually happy face which we shall will miss so much
Lucy
Sales & Admin
The multi-talented Lucy joined us in 2023 and looks after sales and customer services along with some marketing and PR.
Evie
Production & Events
Evie joined us in summer 2024. With a passion for sports (particularly ice related) and an eye for detail she’ll be working part time, helping out around the distillery and at events, whilst studying.
