INSIDE SIPSMITH LONDON: IN CONVERSATION WITH KIT CLANCY
As important as they are, London’s most valuable secrets aren’t to be found in its historic gardens, grand galleries or charming back-streets, but in the lives and minds of its citizens. We believe George VI may have been on to something when he proclaimed: “It is not the walls that make the city, but the people who live within them.”
Londoners, in their brilliant variety and dissimilitude, are the lifeblood of this fair metropolis. And, in fast times like these, we’d like to take a moment to celebrate those Londoners still doing things the old-fashioned way. From the fine chocolatier to the walking-stick maker, these are the unsung custodians of heritage: they work tirelessly to ensure the city’s reputation for fine goods and fine service remains without equal across the world. So, the very least we can do is raise a glass to them. Salute!
KIT CLANCY IS A DISTILLER AT SIPSMITH LONDON
Kit, we're dying to know how one can find themselves working in the wonderful world of gin.
I came into the spirits industry the long way around, starting off working with wine where I trained my palate and gained experience in production. After becoming inspired by Sam, Fairfax and Jared’s mission to bring the distilling of gin back to London, I joined as a trainee under the mentorship of our Head Distiller, Oliver Kitson.
How long have you had the pleasure of working at Sipsmith?
It’s very nearly my two year anniversary at Sipsmith and I’ll be sure to celebrate it with a Martini or two!
Take us through your average day.
I’m responsible for the daily running of the distillery and ensuring that only gin of uncompromising quality makes it into our bottles. A typical day begins with getting our three copper stills (Prudence, Patience and Constance) up and running, with the distillation process taking around 9 hours per batch, plus maceration time. The way we make our gin is very hands-on and so we have built up a strong team of distillers to ensure someone is always on hand to tweak something during the process, if required. I also assist Oliver in creating new products and liaising with suppliers: for example discussing harvest reports for the next juniper crop.
Tell us something unique about Sipsmith.
You can come and visit us and sample our gin in the very building in which it’s made!
And what's next for the distillery?
There are always new and exciting gins being created in our Distillery Lab which people can get their hands on through our Sipsmith Sipping Society. Each quarter, we bottle and release our favourite four recent experimental creations. A few of my favourites have included Bonfire Gin and Beekeeper Gin; the former is smoked with cherry wood, and the latter distilled with sage, orange blossom and infused with Bell Heather Honey from our friends at The London Honey Company.
ANYONE FOR A TIPPLE?
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