Wensleydale Spirit Co was established in 2018 and its owner is now retiring and looking for someone to take over
Wensleydale Spirit Co(Image: Christie & Co)
An award winning Yorkshire Dales distillery has gone on the market.
The Wensleydale Spirit Co, located in the Yorkshire Dales, is going up for sale. The distillery was set up in 2018 by Chris Taplin, and it operates out of a restored 19th Century engine and cargo shed along the Wensleydale Railway Platform in Leyburn, North Yorkshire.
It produces “high-quality spirits, including London dry gins, flavoured vodkas, and spiced rum”.
In 2023, a new bar area was added for visitors, allowing people to enjoy the full range of drinks on offer. The business also hosts a number of experiences like tasting events and the “Gin Train Experience” in partnership with Wensleydale Railway. The Signature Gin from the distillery was awarded a silver medal at the World Spirits Competition, in the USA.
Now, Chris Taplin is retiring from the business, and is looking for new ownership. Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, have been instructed to sell the distillery. A spokesman said: “The distillery’s established reputation and unique setting offer potential to enhance the visitor experience further through broadening the range of events, tastings and potentially introducing a catering outlet.”
Chris said: “Building this business from scratch and sharing our spirits and experiences with so many people has been an incredible journey for me.
“After seven years, I feel it’s the right time to step back, explore new adventures, and pass the business on to someone who shares my passion for quality and can take it even further. There’s huge potential for growth, and I’m excited to see what the next owner can achieve.”
Steve Riley, Business Agent – Retail at Christie & Co, who is managing the sale, added: “The Wensleydale Spirit Co represents a rare opportunity to acquire a well-established and award-winning distillery in one of Yorkshire’s most picturesque settings.
“With its strong brand, loyal customer base, and scope to expand both the visitor experience and product range, it offers exciting potential for a new owner to build on the success already achieved. We’re delighted to bring this unique business to market.”
The Wensleydale Spirit Co is being sold with a leasehold price of £65,000, plus SAV, plus Fixtures and Fittings. You can find out more here.
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