London Distillery Company toasts fundraising success

The London Distillery Company Ltd has raised £258,000 towards building a London distillery, and setting up a sales network for their London single malt whiskey.

Established in 2011 by Darren Rook, The London Distillery Company is working on plans to produce a London single malt whisky, the first in over 100 years, and an organic London dry gin.

Money raised will go towards building a distillery and setting up a sales network aimed at independent retailers, department stores, supermarkets, hotels and bars.

Part of the successful fundraising campaign was run by private investor network Envestors and the deal was handled by Rising Stars, the Envestors service focused on early-stage businesses.

“Whisky is making a huge comeback globally as people rediscover a marvellous spirit manufactured in Britain for centuries,” said Rook, former bar and retail manager.

“Add in demand from new markets in the world’s growing economies and we have a terrific opportunity. The key driver is quality and we know we can produce a fabulous dram. Rising Stars was the answer to our prayers as we are in the early stage of a fast-growing business.”

Rook is planning to create a “Premium Cask Club” to enable customers to create their own single malt whisky from start to finish. As an additional revenue stream, the company will “white label” spirits in partnership with retailers and others.