The tale begins with two childhood friends, Sam Galsworthy and Fairfax Hall, with a life-long affection for things well made…and Martinis. Before long, they had been introduced to renowned drinks aficionado Jared Brown at a Negroni party (of all places) and before the evening was out he was ready to join them on their mission to create the world’s best London Dry Gin.
In 2008, the founders faced a rather unexpected obstacle at the start of their venture – and it arrived in the form of a historic, British law. An excise act still in effect from 1823 made it impossible for distillers to obtain a licence for a still under 1,800 litres, and their shiny new still was only 300 litres. Yet, with persistent passion, unwavering vision (and some Dutch Courage, no doubt), their petition led to the law being changed in 2008. The gin-aissance was born and the spirit was once again crafted in genuinely small, characterful batches.
The Three Musketeers shared the same vision: to smith an uncompromising London Dry Gin, the way it used to be made, the way it should be made. Patience was key when mastering their craftsmanship, as well as a healthy dose of hard graft and a distinctive flair. On the 14th March 2009, the final recipe was made with our first still, Prudence. ‘Sipsmith’ the gin and the brand was born, inspired by the smithery you can savour with every sip.
