Jess Tomlinson's thirst for an unusual career landed her the role of the UK's youngest female head distiller at the age of 25 in 2014.
Today, Jess, now 28 and still working at craft distiller Durham Distillery, has launched another unique gin recipe with a Strawberry and Pink Pepper liqueur.
“There is nothing I won't have a go at making – it's a combination of two things I love, chemistry and creative art, with an end product you can consume. I think this is why I love creating gin!” says Jess, the mastermind behind a range of quality spirits launched by Durham Distillery.
Jess prides herself on the traditional process the distillery uses and describes her favourite aspect of the job as watching the first drips of gin pour off the still in the morning. Utilising a 400 litre copper pot called Lily, this method has long been used to create the highest quality gin while ensuring the preservation of its botanical ingredients. And named after owner Jon Chadwick's first born, it keeps up with the age-old tradition followed by distillers across the world.
Starting her journey from a five year Masters in Chemistry Jess quickly moved onto a one year Masters in Brewing and Distilling, landing herself a job in a lab along the way.
In 2014 she joined the team at Durham Distillery, making her a stand-out figure for UK statistics. And what better time for a new figurehead in the Gin-dustry than now? The Office of National Statistics have recently claimed that Brit's are drinking so much gin that it now belongs in the calculations towards a 'typical weekly shop'*.
“I love designing and producing new product lines – our vodka and most recently our Strawberry and Pink Pepper Liqueur were both my creations. The amazing feedback we get from customers is a massive motivator for me, it's great to hear people love what we make!” she says.
With a real thirst for everything spirit based, Jess recommends trying gin neat to totally appreciate the blend of flavours. And if you have to mix it, make it a quality tonic!
And as for her future plans?
“I see myself continuing to make great gin and vodka. Durham Distillery is all about educating and exciting customers and working with local organisations. We want to build on being a great place local people want to work and I've got so many exciting recipes to create and share, I feel I'm only just beginning.”
Looks like it's time to up the ante Jess! You are truly a gin-spiration.
