One of the UK’s leading names in the fast-growing English whisky scene has reinforced its position at the forefront of the category, as Cotswolds Distillery secured three major honours at the English Whisky Awards 2026.
The distillery’s Signature Single Malt Whisky was awarded both Best English Whisky and Best Value English Whisky, while the distillery itself was named Best Whisky Distillery – a clean sweep that reflects both product quality and visitor experience.
For a brand that has played a central role in the revival of English whisky over the past decade, the recognition marks another milestone in its rapid rise from regional producer to internationally recognised name.
Founded in 2014 by Dan Szor, the distillery was among the early pioneers of modern English single malt production. Its flagship whisky, launched in 2017, was the first of its kind to be distilled in the Cotswolds and has since become one of the best-selling English single malts worldwide.
The award-winning expression is crafted using locally grown barley and matured in a combination of STR (shaved, toasted and re-charred) ex-red wine casks and first-fill ex-bourbon barrels. The result is a distinctive profile defined by honeyed sweetness, citrus brightness and rich red fruit notes – a style that has helped broaden the appeal of English whisky to a wider audience.
Speaking following the awards, Szor described the recognition as a reflection of the team’s long-standing ambition to create a world-class whisky that remains accessible. He highlighted the balance between quality and value as a core principle of the brand, alongside a commitment to craftsmanship.
Beyond the whisky itself, the Best Whisky Distillery accolade also recognises the wider experience offered at the Cotswolds site. Located near Shipston-on-Stour, the distillery has evolved into a major visitor destination, welcoming more than 100,000 guests annually across its main site and satellite locations. Judges noted its strong brand identity, welcoming atmosphere and high-quality visitor offering.
The English Whisky Awards, which are independently run and community-led, were established to celebrate the growing momentum behind English whisky production. As the category continues to gain international attention, producers like Cotswolds Distillery are increasingly setting benchmarks for both quality and innovation.
Sustainability has also become a defining feature of the distillery’s operations. Recent investments include a wetlands ecological treatment system designed to naturally process wastewater while supporting biodiversity and reducing environmental impact – part of a broader commitment to responsible production.
With more than 100 global awards across its portfolio and continued recognition for both its products and people, Cotswolds Distillery’s latest success underscores a wider shift: English whisky is no longer emerging – it is establishing itself.
