Aber Falls to create first rye whisky in north Wales

Welsh spirits producer Aber Falls has commenced production of Wales's first rye whisky and launched a new “accessible” range, which includes the distillery's first vodka.

Halewood-owned Aber Falls is north Wales’s first whisky distillery for more than 100 years and has become the first producer to commercially distil rye whisky in the country. The team will add the rye whisky, once mature, as a permanent addition to Aber Falls' whisky portfolio. The distillery has been producing new-make malt spirit since January 2018. James Wright, managing director at Aber Falls, said: “Distilling rye whisky marks a significant milestone in the development of Aber Falls’ future whisky portfolio. Our ambition is to build a portfolio which is fit for the next five, 10, 15, 20 years and to unlock new drinking experiences for consumers. “The addition of a rye whisky allows us to bring into the fold whisky drinkers beginning their journey of experimentation. This versatile liquid is the perfect stepping stone to go onto explore single malts.” The distillery has also launched Breindal, a new range of “accessible” spirits that includes a new Welsh gin and Welsh vodka. Aber Falls Breindal Gin is said to have an aroma of freshly cut grass, accompanied by piney juniper berries and subtle orange flavours. The distillery's Breindal Vodka "leads with a bright, citrus aroma" and has a smooth, creamy finish. Bottled at 37.5% abv and carrying an RRP of £20 (US$26.5) per 700ml bottle, the Breindal spirits are available at Cardiff’s Lab 22 and north Wales’s Dylan’s Restaurants, and wholesalers including Blas ar Fwyd, Joseph Keegan & Sons, Harlech Foodservice and Castell Howell. Wright added: “Since the launch of Aber Falls, we have been committed to inspiring bartenders to create new serves, cocktails and experiences for their customers to enjoy, and the Breindal duo is perfectly placed for this, in which both liquids are incredibly versatile and highly mixable.”