Our Story

IT STARTED WITH A G&T

It began with three words: What you drinking? Jen replied: gin and tonic. On that cold, wet February evening in Manchester, Seb and Jen talked for hours about their hopes and dreams, about travelling, food, and of course, their mutual love of gin.

Two years later, ready to open their own bar, Jen and Seb discovered small-batch gin distillation which ignited the spark that is now Manchester Gin. From their dining room, Seb and Jen started distilling gin 60 litres at a time. Hoping to make 800 bottles a year, they distilled through the night and bottled, labelled and sold by day. 

They went on to make 25,000 bottles from their dining room, which won a Gold at the Spirit Masters for micro-distillery. Now, just three years later, owned 50/50 between Seb and Jen, the Spirit of Manchester Distillery is a state-of-the-art distillery capable of producing a million bottles a year.

INSPIRED BY THE CITY IT’S MADE IN

Manchester Gin has been internationally recognised by the most prestigious spirits competitions around the world. But while we’re proud to have taken our gin around the world, Manchester will always be our home and inspiration.

We couldn’t be prouder to call this incredible city our home. The local support we’ve received from day one has been a huge contributor to our success. The city’s industrial heritage, rich culture, and fierce love of independent businesses is something we love and are proud to be a part of. 

In the Spirit of Manchester Distillery, we hope to give back to the city we love. We’ve chosen local suppliers, have created jobs for local people, and launched apprenticeships across all areas of the business. The bee on our logo is a tribute to Manchester’s work ethic and inclusive, hive mentality.

THE SPIRIT OF MANCHESTER DISTILLERY

In 2019, we launched our brand new distillery, bar and restaurant. Occupying six railway arches under the historic centre of the city, Manchester Central, we’ve built a state-of-the-art distillery where you can come and see our gin being made.

We wanted to create a fully immersive experience, so we invite you to drink, dine and distill with us. Whether you want to drink gin, make it, or see how it’s made, the Spirit of Manchester Distillery welcomes visitors to experience Manchester Gin where it’s made.

Find out more about the distillery and book your place on a gin tour, tasting or gin-making experience.

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