Sipping History: 14th-Century Recipes for Monastic Booze Take New Form in Craft Gin
A collaboration between a cathedral and a local distillery gives way to a craft gin inspired by historic recipes 14th-century monks used to make botanical spirits. (Photo: Durham Cathedral)
The United Kingdom’s Durham Cathedral has partnered up with Durham Distillery to unveil its latest offering: Monks’ Gin. Inspired by the historical spirit-making practices of monks residing in the cathedral during the 14th and 15th centuries, this craft gin pays homage to the past while supporting the conservation of Durham Cathedral today.
“We’re delighted to have been able to make this product just in time for Christmas,” said Head of Enterprise at Durham Cathedral Hannah Ellis, per the cathedral’s website. “The team working on it have taken inspiration from this historic place and the monks who once lived here to develop something truly unique.”
“We’re sure it will be a popular addition to the cathedral shop this season as it makes an ideal gift – it’s quirky, fun and rooted in the history of Durham Cathedral.”
In the initial phase of the project, researchers conducted thorough investigations using archival records from the cathedral’s library. According to the team behind the gin, they aimed to unveil the botanicals employed by monks during the 14th and 15th centuries in their on-site distillery, known as the “Gin Still.” The resulting history-inspired creation boasts flavors of pear, citrus, pepper and cinnamon.
One of the original manuscripts used by researchers to help formulate Durham Cathedral’s Monks’ Gin. (Photo: Durham Cathedral)
“Knowing that there was a distillery onsite and that the Monks would have distilled their own alcohol, as well as having records of their ingredients and recipes, was an opportunity to celebrate this part of the cathedral’s history,” Ellis added.
The former monastic distillery once occupied the space where the cathedral’s infirmary is now situated. Today, the Education Centre stands in the location, hosting hundreds of schoolchildren and their teachers annually.
Sales generated from the new gin will help the conservation endeavors of Durham Cathedral. Purchasers will also receive a recipe card, courtesy of Durham Distillery, featuring a cocktail recipe and a gin and tonic combination tailored to complement the characteristics of Monks’ Gin.
Priced at £20 for a 20-cl bottle and £50 for a 70-cl bottle, Monks’ Gin is available exclusively at the Durham Cathedral shop.
“The community around the cathedral and the Shrine of St Cuthbert may be different to the times of the Monks, but is no less vibrant and meaningful,” shared Managing Director and Founder of Durham Distillery Jon Chadwick.
“This is one of the most rewarding projects we have ever worked on, and we are incredibly proud to be a small part of the life of the cathedral.”
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