Introducing Ellers Farm Distillery
Ellers Farm Distillery is an award-winning, certified B Corp® distillery located in the heart of North Yorkshire. The project is all about blending quality craft with an unwavering commitment to the balance of people, planet, and profit. At its core lies a dedication to restoring and protecting the environment while ensuring that every spirit produced—whether it’s the renowned vodka, gin, or other fine spirits—carries the heritage of Yorkshire. This is no ordinary distillery; it’s a place where sustainability meets creative craftsmanship, and the passion for excellence originates from humble beginnings in an abandoned orchard.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
The innovative approach of Ellers Farm Distillery presents numerous benefits that are hard to ignore. The following key figures and facts encapsulate what makes this project stand out:
- Certified B Corp® with an impressive bcorp score of 81.5.
- State-of-the-art production capacity capable of reaching up to a million bottles of vodka a year.
- Originally built on the foundation of an old Dutch barn, showcasing the rich agricultural legacy of Yorkshire.
- Notable partnerships, including an extraordinary whisky collaboration with Theakston Brewery—one of the oldest brewing institutions in the region.
- A dynamic leadership journey, highlighted by global superstar Ricky Gervais joining as co-owner, signaling creative leadership and a focus on global brand awareness.
The Journey from Orchard to Award-Winning Vodka
This distillery’s story begins in the most unassuming way imaginable. In 2014, founder Chris Fraser discovered an abandoned orchard at the bottom of his garden in North Yorkshire, where apples fell and went to waste. It was in this casual, almost serendipitous moment that the idea to transform raw ingredients into something brilliant was born. Starting with a hobby of homemade cider-making, the journey soon evolved into producing about 350 litres of cider—a small spark that eventually ignited a passion for crafting legendary vodka. As the process unfolded, a lightbulb moment occurred when Chris discovered an obscure apple vodka in New York. That unexpected inspiration led to experiments with a tiny pot still at home, paving the way for what would become the iconic Dutch Barn Vodka.
Innovative Collaborations and Expansion
Innovation thrives at Ellers Farm Distillery, with each stage of growth punctuated by exciting pivots and bold collaborations. Following the upgrade of equipment and refinement of the recipe to perfection, the distillery moved into a larger space by discovering an old Dutch barn outside York. This move wasn’t just about space—it was the birth of Dutch Barn Vodka, an ode to Yorkshire’s rich agricultural heritage and a testament to sustainable perfection. The establishment of a new, innovative distillery in January 2022 marked a significant milestone, complete with custom-built equipment handcrafted in Italy, which is a true nod to the quality and precision behind every bottle produced.
Sustainable Practices and Future Visions
The essence of the project lies in its sustainability, a theme interwoven throughout its entire journey. Ellers Farm Distillery’s commitment to the planet is underscored by its decision to plant 361 apple trees in February 2023. With 28 different apple tree varieties, including 12 that originate in Yorkshire, the plan is to one day harvest these apples to craft products while also absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere—a thoughtful, long-term environmental strategy. It’s a move that reflects more than just practical sustainability; it’s a promise to future generations and the world of honest, ethical production in the beverages industry.
Creative Milestones and Brand Evolution
The evolution of Ellers Farm Distillery is punctuated by creative milestones that demonstrate both growth and ingenuity. From launching Dutch Barn Vodka as ‘The Original Orchard Vodka’ in March 2022 to partnering with a storied brand like Theakston Brewery in June 2022 for a unique single malt English whisky, the project has continually pushed the envelope. Each step, whether it be in upgrading equipment or expanding the production capacity, acts as a building block towards a larger narrative that marries tradition with modern innovation. The journey is dynamic, sometimes marked by pauses that allow reflection before leaping ahead with new ideas, much like a natural, flowing conversation filled with moments of excitement and anticipation.
Project Impact – Linking to SDGs
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Emphasizing the integration of advanced custom-built equipment and innovative production processes.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Highlighted by the strategic planning behind using locally sourced apples and sustainable practices in product development.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Taking serious steps to reduce carbon emissions through initiatives such as tree planting and responsible resource management.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Contributing positively to the environment by revitalizing orchards and planting diverse apple trees native to the region.
Global Outreach and Creative Leadership
The recent addition of Ricky Gervais as a co-owner in November 2023 marks a turning point in Ellers Farm Distillery’s journey, injecting a dose of creative leadership into the mix. This celebrity association not only elevates the distillery’s global presence but also aligns perfectly with its ethical and sustainable vision. Gervais’ involvement brings a vibrant energy and innovative marketing approach that echoes the distillery’s dynamic and ever-evolving spirit. His decision to join the venture was rooted in a desire to support a business that is deeply entrenched in sustainability and creative excellence—thus ensuring that the story of Ellers Farm Distillery continues to resonate on both a local and global stage.
