We’ve noticed the chillier mornings in the distillery and are thankful for the fire under the still to warm us through. It’s been a busy month, so here’s an update of all we’ve been up to in the last few weeks. 

October in the Distillery

We’re thrilled to announce that our Distillery Shop is now open! Attached to the side of our distillery and open to the public, the Distillery Shop will be open on Thursdays and Fridays 11am-4pm and Saturdays 1pm-2:30pm. You can read more about our Distillery Shop here

Our Whisky Tasting Experiences are back in full swing, it’s been wonderful welcoming so many people back to learn more about our story and to taste our single malt whisky. We even welcome four-legged friends, so if you’re interested to learn more about Devon’s only whisky distillery, book your place today via our website here

October is all about preparing for Christmas. We’ve been buying plenty of bottles, packaging and boxes to see us through the busy gifting period and ensuring we have plenty of stock. 

If you’re a stockist looking to stock Dartmoor Whisky for Christmas, then please get in touch with our wonderful new Sales Manager Anita on: anita@dartmoorwhiskydistillery.co.uk.

October in the Fields 

Our farmer Tim Cox has been planting the winter barley in the fields near Drewsteignton on Dartmoor this month. We make our whisky using one of the oldest varieties of barley – Maris Otter, which is highly favoured amongst brewers and distillers for its glorious malty taste. 

In two weeks time, the seeds will have sprouted and then the full crop will be harvested at the end of July, or the beginning of August next year. 

Despite the challenges for farmers this year, there have reportedly been some pleasant surprises in both yield and quality and, amidst the setback, the calibre of the crop has been noted as better than prior years. As it stands, the resulting drinks made from the 2021 barley harvest could be some of the best yet.

October on Dartmoor 

It’s that time of year again, woolly jumpers, real ale and pub dinners by the fire. We love Autumn on Dartmoor. 

Every season has its highlights, but somehow the slowing of the pace of life, the incredible leaf colours and those magical misty mornings of October just can’t be beaten. 

We love early morning walks on the moor, with the dew glistening on cobwebs, auburn leaves hanging low over the river, and red berries and huge ferns putting on a spectacular show. Deep in the woodland, we love looking out for the fantastic display of fungi that appears this time of year. From chicken of the woods to puffballs and ceps, there are some delicious species to be found. Do make sure you are 100% sure of the species before eating anything. 

This month you’ll find us in The Chagford Inn enjoying a roast by the fire, or in The Rugglestone Inn tucking to a Beef & Ale Pie, before heading on a walk and scrambling on the tors.