Adnams announced sudden death of its head distiller
18th October 2024
A Suffolk-based brewery, Adnams, has just announced the passing of its head distiller, John McCarthy.
The company said that Mr McCarthy, who had been an integral part of the Adnams team for more than 20 years, died suddenly on Saturday 12th October.
Originally an electrical engineer for the company, the 55 year-old man grew more interested in the world of brewing and distilling and went on to study for, and succeed in, his brewing exams.
By 2009, he was chosen to serve as lead engineer to run the new distillery project.
He became known for his innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality, and went on to develop over 30 different gin recipes in the lab ahead of the distillery’s official opening.
The Adnams team said that Mr McCarthy was the one who so successfully conceived the recipe for the brewery’s best-selling Copper House Dry Gin, which was released in 2010 and has gone on to achieve countless accolades.
Leader in craft distilling movement
Mr McCarthy went on to develop an extensive and varied range of spirits for Adnams, winning many prestigious international awards along the way, including gold medals in the World Whiskies Awards and gold outstanding in the International Wine & Spirits Competition, the company confirmed.
He helped Adnams claim the further accolades of world’s best gin, world’s best vodka and world’s best vodka producer, as well as England’s best rye whisky.
Mr McCarthy achieved his Diploma in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling and was a member of The Worshipful Company of Distillers, The Gin Guild and The English Whisky Guild.
Jenny Hanlon, Adnams CEO, said: “We are all so deeply saddened to learn of John’s death. He was a wonderful friend, mentor, colleague – and an incredibly talented and devoted professional too.
“John had time for everybody and anybody – no matter how busy he was. He was one of those special people who really left an impression.
“His expertise and dedication undoubtedly transformed Adnams into a leader in the craft distilling movement. John’s passion for his craft and his belief in the power of community were truly inspiring. He will be deeply missed by all of us.”
Fergus Fitzgerald, production director, added: “It has been a privilege to work alongside John and to have seen his evolution from engineer to distiller.
“John loved the process and the art of distilling, and we were fortunate that he found that passion with us. John has left us with a wealth of stories and a library of wonderful spirits to toast him with, long into the future.”
Throughout his career, McCarthy championed the approach of working with local grain to produce spirit, which celebrated the essence of Suffolk and was uniquely Adnams.
His legacy will continue through the many distillers he inspired and the exceptional products he created.
The Adnams family extends its heartfelt condolences to John’s family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him, the company said.
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