Looking back, and moving forwards
As we near the end of 2021 we thought we'd take you on a quick trip down memory lane with us, to remember where we were 12 months ago and celebrate the incredible pride we feel at how far we have come, and of our achievements during what has been another year of unknowns and uncertainties for one and all.
When we look back through our photos of the build at Treguddick, it's almost hard to believe that the empty barn that we were standing in just 18 months ago, surrounded by mud and builders supplies is the wonderfully spacious and welcoming building we're in today.
We sweltered for a few brief weeks as Cornwall had a brief heatwave this summer, and we raced against the clock to get the finishing touches done in time to open our doors in October, but being able to welcome all of our visitors, whether they are enjoying one of our distillery and tasting tours, or just popping in to see what everyone has been talking about and enjoy a coffee and cake in our cafe, has made the whole journey worth while.
Whilst the focus may have been on Treguddick with so much going on, our distillery at Great Yeldham Hall has toiled on relentlessly, producing and distilling all of our wonderful spirits and liqueurs throughout the year. Making sure we had enough Christmas Spirit Liqueur for the festive season ahead, and keeping everyone reliably informed as to when our ever popular Limongino would be back on the shelves again!
We held our very first Dr J's dinner club at Treguddick in November, where Dr J cooked up a mouthwatering 5 course menu alongside a plentiful selection of spirits and wine. The atmosphere was just as we wanted it to be. Jovial, friendly, warm and welcoming, and we can't wait to host our next one in early 2022.
On the 7th of December we stayed open late at Treguddick for our Christmas shopping evening. We weren't entirely sure what, or who to expect! But 20 mins after opening the doors the cafe was full to overflowing and we hurriedly searched for more tables and chairs so that the ever growing number of customers could sit and enjoy a festive platter whilst being entertained by Launceston's Popchoir, who raised (our very high roof) with some Christmas tunes and carols. They were marvellous and we will be booking them again for events next year so watch this space!
We have many exciting events planned for 2022 and can't wait to open our doors again on the 3rd of January after a well earned rest and break over Christmas and the New Year. Before we end what has been a fabulously memorable year we thought we'd share with you the highlights of some of our wonderful team here at Treguddick throughout the last 12 months.
Esther. Spirit Ambassador and Treguddick Front of House team member.
'Having worked as a Spirit Ambassador for English Spirit for just over 2 years, I remember coming to Treguddick to pick up stock for an event when it really was still just a barn in a field. To see the transformation has been amazing. I am now also working in the cafe and doing front of house work which I never thought I'd be doing, but I love it!'
Adam. Spirit Ambassador and Groundsman at Treguddick.
'My favourite moment of the last 12 months having been part of the process right from the start, was when we held a staff party the night before we officially opened. I feel like I've been involved in the transformation of Treguddick right from the very beginning, doing a 101 different things and to get everyone together to celebrate our achievements was a great feeling.'
Phil. Visitor Experience Manager at Treguddick.
'The Christmas Shopping evening that we held was an absolutely brilliant night. We were blown away by how many people came, and for me that's when Christmas felt like it had really begun at Treguddick'
2021 was the year that we celebrated ten years of English Spirit. What started as a bit of experiment by a man who had a keen interest in distilling, and started by picking a few grapes off the side of his house to see what he could make from them, has grown into a business that offers the widest choice of scratch distilled spirits and liqueurs in the UK.
Who knows what we'll be celebrating in another 10 years time, but if what we have planned for 2022 is anything to go by, then it's sure to be yet another part of a crazy, wonderful rollercoaster ride of pure fun!
Thank you for your support and custom in the last 12 months. We produce these wonderful products really just so we can share them with you, and spread a little happiness along the way.
From everyone at English Spirit, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.
