Hensol Castle Distillery has announced a series of record-breaking achievements for the first six months of its financial year, underscoring its growing status as one of Wales’s most successful spirits producers.
The business achieved an AA grade in its latest BRCGS re-audit — the highest possible certification — recognising world-class standards in product safety, quality and traceability.
The distillery also expanded its supermarket partnerships, with new listings driving growth across Wales and the UK. Its premium Hensol Castle Vodka launched in Tesco stores across Wales for the first time this year, while a new distribution agreement with Molson Coors will support national on-trade expansion.
During the first half of 2025, Hensol Castle Distillery delivered record contract bottling volumes of 1.3 million bottles, fulfilling orders for several blue-chip drinks companies. The company also confirmed that profits for the period were significantly ahead of forecasts.
The results highlight the distillery’s dual focus on contract manufacturing and premium own-brand production, with operational excellence and quality assurance driving both revenue streams.
“Whilst the challenges facing the hospitality industry are widely reported, we are delighted to continue building market share and distribution for our own spirits brand,” said Chris Leeke, Managing Director.
“We are also proud to have earned the trust of respected national brands to produce their spirits on their behalf. Our success in the past six months is a testament to our passionate and knowledgeable team, whose dedication continues to drive our growth.”
The business’s partnership with Molson Coors marks a significant step in its on-trade strategy, with the brewer’s Regional Director Martin Anderson welcoming the collaboration: “We’re excited to add Hensol Castle to our on-trade distribution portfolio. Our teams are enthusiastic about bringing the brand’s unique Welsh offering to more customers across the UK.”
Meanwhile, the company’s whisky production programme continues to mature. Hensol Castle confirmed that its first whisky release is planned for the second half of 2026, with several special-edition cask finishes already in development.
The distillery’s visitor experience continues to thrive, attracting thousands of guests annually and contributing to the region’s growing food and drink tourism sector.
In 2025, Hensol Castle Distillery once again secured the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award and was named Tourism and Hospitality Business of the Year at The Vale Business Awards — both for the second consecutive year.
As Hensol Castle Distillery continues to invest in new product innovation and infrastructure, it remains committed to upholding exceptional quality, sustainability and customer confidence.
“Our focus is on continuous improvement — from the integrity of our production standards to the partnerships we build,” said Leeke. “We’re determined to make Hensol Castle a brand Wales can be proud of.”
