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Adnams pays tribute to head distiller

17 October 2024 By Louis Thomas

Southwold-based brewery and distillery Adnams has announced that head distiller John McCarthy suddenly died on Saturday at the age of 55.

McCarthy, who was at Adnams for more than 20 years, initially as part of the engineering team having previously worked as control systems engineer, was chosen to lead the historic brewery’s distillery project in 2009, and was the mind behind the release of its acclaimed Copper House Dry Gin the following year. He was a driving force behind the development of Adnams’ spirits portfolio, which also includes whisky, vodka, and even RTDs.

Adnams CEO Jenny Hanlon said in a statement paying tribute to McCarthy: “John had time for everybody and anybody – no matter how busy he was. He was one of those special people who really left an impression. His expertise and dedication undoubtedly transformed Adnams into a leader in the craft distilling movement. John’s passion for his craft and his belief in the power of community were truly inspiring. He will be deeply missed by all of us.”

“It has been a privilege to work alongside John and to have seen his evolution from engineer to distiller,” added production director Fergus Fitzgerald. “John loved the process and the art of distilling, and we were fortunate that he found that passion with us. John has left us with a wealth of stories and a library of wonderful spirits to toast him with, long into the future.”

Also paying tribute was beer expert Nigel Sadler, who tweeted: “John was a great guy and kindly spent time with me and took me through various aspects of distilling when I was studying for my Institute of Brewing & Distilling distilling exam.”

McCarthy gained his diploma in distilling in 2013. He was also a member of the Gin Guild, the English Whisky Guild and the Worshipful Company of Distillers.

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