Northumberland whisky distillery’s first single malt sells out in double quick time

The Crǣft Series, the first Northumbrian English single malt in modern times, was launched at a special event at Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery in Wooler.

In anticipation of a core single malt - and whilst the spirit continues to mature - Ad Gefrin released three single casks which sold out in just over four hours.

To mark the occasion, Ad Gefrin commissioned three North East artists to create the artwork for the three bottle designs: Voirrey Taylor for the Bourbon cask, Luke McTaggart for the American Single Malt Cask, and Sarah Calavera for the American Single Malt finished in a Sherry Hogshead.

Ben Murphy, head distiller at Ad Gefrin, said: “This has been such an emotional and proud milestone for Ad Gefrin and me. To be able to present such unique and flavourful individual casks that are just over three years old means that we are on the right track.

"To be able to celebrate this by also showcasing such talented artists underlines the art and craft of whisky making and the creative talent we have in the region. I’m really excited to select our next three casks and meet the artists who will bring their labels to life.”

The Crǣft Series is the first in a planned series of a possible 12 single cask releases, with the next launch planned before the end of 2026.

Ad Gefrin has announced an open call for artists in their search to commission local creatives to design the artwork for the next Crǣft Series launch.

Artists must be under 35 years old or emerging and working in the North East of England. They can practice in any medium but the final artwork must be capable of digitising to create the bottle label. To find out more and express interest, email [email protected].

The Crǣft Series launch was part of the Lammas Gaderung - an annual celebration of Northumbria’s rich food, produce and spirit - and the Festival of Archaeology at Yeavering, the ancient royal site that inspired Ad Gefrin.