The London Distillery Company (TLDC) was established in 2011 in Battersea, London, marking the first new whisky distillery in the city since the closure of Lea Valley Distillery in 1903. TLDC set out with a bold vision to revive London’s whisky heritage, blending tradition with modern craftsmanship.
However, after nearly a decade of operation, the company entered administration in 2020. In 2023, the distillery was acquired by Gleann Mòr Spirits, signaling a new chapter for the brand. In January 2025, Matt McKay was appointed as Managing Director and Whisky Maker, tasked with leading TLDC’s revitalization and returning it to prominence in the whisky world.
Renascence – The Revival Release: A Whisky Steeped in History
TLDC’s comeback is embodied by its first London single malt whisky release, Renascence – The Revival Release. This whisky is crafted from surplus casks produced during TLDC’s initial operational period between 2011 and 2020.
The whisky uses Plumage Archer, a traditional barley variety widely utilized in early 20th-century whisky production. Renascence is aged in refill and first-fill sherry casks, contributing to its complex flavor profile.
A Symphony of Flavors and Aromas
Renascence maintains the original spirit style TLDC was known for before its closure. It is characterized by a vibrant bouquet featuring notes of bush berries, orange oil, fruit cake, spiced molasses, and delicate pastries.
On the palate, it unfolds with stewed aromas of red berries and blackberries, gradually evolving to reveal earthy undertones, toasted oak, dark chocolate, cashew nuts, roasted barley, and floral hints of rose hips and Turkish delight.
Vision and Leadership: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Innovation
Matt McKay reflects on the company’s pioneering spirit:
“The London Distillery Company was ahead of its time — advocating tradition and small batch production long before the wider market was ready to embrace these values. Today, this vision aligns perfectly with the evolving tastes of modern drinkers. Renascence not only marks a new whisky release but rekindles the original creative vision of the distillery.”
He adds, “I am honored to carry on this tradition and shape the next chapter of TLDC. Although we are currently a distillery without walls, our goal is clear: to return to the roots of distilling and re-establish ourselves as a creative force in British whisky.”
Limited Release and Availability
At 58% ABV, Renascence is a limited edition release with only 410 bottles available worldwide. The whisky will be sold exclusively through the renowned spirits and wine merchant Berry Bros & Rudd, starting June 6, 2025, with a recommended retail price of £89 (approximately $120).
A Partnership Rooted in Legacy
Rob Whitehead, Spirits Buyer at Berry Bros & Rudd, expresses his enthusiasm:
“Since hearing about the delicious London Single Malt casks from TLDC resting peacefully under the stewardship of Matt McKay and the Gleann Mòr Spirits team, I have been eager to share them with family, friends, and clients. As Spirits Buyer at Berry Bros & Rudd, it is a privilege to serve as a trusted link between the distillers crafting the finest spirits and the connoisseurs who appreciate them. What better place to explore London’s oldest whisky stock than at the city’s oldest spirits and wine merchant?”
This release marks an exciting moment for TLDC and for whisky enthusiasts seeking a taste of London’s whisky heritage, crafted with passion and respect for tradition. Renascence represents both a tribute to the past and a promise for the future of British whisky.
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