In a world dominated by mass production, small-batch spirits have carved out a dedicated following among those who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and authenticity. But what makes them so special? And why are craft spirits more expensive than their mass-produced counterparts? Let us guide you through and explain the reasons why small-batch spirits, Like our hereat The Shropshire Distillery, are worth every penny.
The Craft Distilling Difference
Unlike large-scale distilleries that churn out spirits in vast quantities, small-batch distilleries focus on quality over volume. At The Shropshire Distillery, we use a one-shot distillation method, ensuring that every bottle captures the purest expression of our carefully selected botanicals. This method requires more time, precision, and skill—but the result is a spirit with unmatched depth and character and keeping to our honesty and transparency values.
No Shortcuts, Just Quality
Large distilleries often resort to cost-saving methods in the production of their spirits, which are subsequently diluted with raw alcohol to extend their distillate. Meanwhile, small-batch distilleries, including The Shropshire Distillery, prioritise quality over quantity and focus on handcrafting each batch with precision and care..
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Handcrafted in small quantities – Each batch is carefully monitored, guaranteeing consistency and quality.
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Purity in every bottle – We distill using a one-shot method, meaning the final spirit isn’t altered after distillation, and only purified water, whihc we purify onsite, is used to blend our distillates to bottling strength.
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Alchemy in action – Craft distillers treat spirit-making as an art form, balancing botanicals and ingredients to create something truly special.
The True Cost of Craft Spirits
A common question is, “Why do craft spirits cost more?” The answer lies in the scale of production, duty, tax, and the commitment to using the best ingredients.
1. Duty Increases and Lack of Support for Small Producers
The recent UK alcohol duty increase, in August 2024 and again on 1st February 2025 has made craft spirits even more expensive. Unlike breweries, small craft distilleries do not benefit from Small Producers Relief, meaning we pay the same duty and tax rate as large spirits companies despite operating on a much smaller scale. You can read more about the impact of UK duty changes on the industry here.
For small-batch producers like us, this means that even though we operate with significantly smaller production runs, we still face the same high duty and tax as global brands that produce in bulk.
2. Cost of Ingredients and Production
The difference in quality between craft and mass-produced spirits often comes down to ingredients and production methods. Here’s what sets us apart:
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Smaller ingredient orders = higher costs – Large brands buy in bulk, which reduces their cost per unit. As a small producer, we buy the finest botanicals and base spirits in smaller quantities, meaning our costs are naturally higher.
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Time-intensive distillation – Our process involves slow distillation to ensure quality, unlike mass-market brands that prioritise speed over craftsmanship.
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Ethical sourcing – Many craft distilleries, including The Shropshire Distillery, are committed to ethical and sustainable sourcing, which can also increase costs.
The Magic of Small-Batch Spirits
One of the biggest advantages of small-batch distilling is the ability to innovate and experiment. We’re not constrained by corporate production schedules or strict global recipes, allowing us to push boundaries with unique botanical combinations and distillation techniques.
At The Shropshire Distillery, every batch is meticulously crafted by our team, ensuring that each bottle tells a story of skill, passion, and dedication. The result? An experience that’s far superior to anything mass-produced.
Why Small-Batch Spirits Are Worth It
1. Exceptional Taste and Complexity
Small-batch spirits deliver richer, more complex flavours compared to their mass-produced counterparts. This is because:
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We use high-quality ingredients instead of artificial flavourings.
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We distill with precision, ensuring only the best cuts make it into the final product.
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We blend slowly and allow our spirits to rest properly, developing their full character.
2. Supporting Independent Businesses
Choosing a craft spirit over a mainstream brand means you’re supporting a small business that genuinely cares about its product. Unlike corporate brands, we’re passionate about every aspect of production—from sourcing botanicals to designing our labels. Your purchase directly supports local jobs and helps sustain the craft distilling industry.
3. Limited Editions and Unique Releases
Unlike big brands that produce the same product year after year, small-batch distilleries create limited edition releases that bring something new and exciting to the market. These unique spirits are often inspired by seasonal ingredients, new distillation techniques, or collaborations with other artisan producers.
Understanding the One-Shot Method
Many mass producers use multi-shot distillation, where a concentrated gin or spirit is later diluted to reach its final alcohol content. While this method reduces production cost, it can dilute the depth of flavour.
At The Shropshire Distillery, we use a one-shot distillation process, which means:
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The final spirit comes straight from the still with nothing added post distillation except for purified water.
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We do not use any artificial colours or flavourings
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Every batch is crafted with precise care, ensuring consistency and only using a single shot of botanicals for the distillation.
The Rising Popularity of Craft Spirits
Consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about what’s in their glass. According to recent studies, more people are seeking out high-quality, small-batch spirits that offer a premium drinking experience. You can read about the craft spirits boom in the UK here.
Craft Spirits vs. Mass-Produced: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Small-Batch Spirits | Mass-Produced Spirits |
|---|---|---|
| Distillation Method | One-shot, slow process | Multi-shot, rapid production |
| Ingredients | Fresh/dried, high-quality | Often bulk-bought, lower grade |
| Batch Size | Limited, handcrafted | Mass production |
| Flavour Profile | Rich, complex, unique | Standardised, often less flavour |
| Sustainability | Ethically sourced, quality, local ingredients | Often driven by cost-cutting |
| Pricing | Higher due to quality | Lower due to mass scale |
How to Find the Best Craft Spirits
If you’re looking to explore the world of craft spirits, here are some tips:
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Check for transparency – Small distilleries take pride in sharing their equipment and production process. Visit their websites or distilleries to learn about how they make their spirits and if they have a still! Some claim to produce their own products when they are actually made by the larger distilleries - known as contract distilling.
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Look for awards – Many craft spirits earn recognition at international competitions, cementing their quality in the spirits world.
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Support local distilleries – Visiting a distillery, like The Shropshire Distillery, is a great way to experience small-batch craftsmanship firsthand .
Conclusion
Small-batch spirits are more than just a drink—they’re an experience. Crafted with transparency, passion, precision, and premium ingredients, they offer a depth of flavour and authenticity that mass-produced spirits simply can’t match. While craft spirits may come with a higher price tag, their superior quality, hands on production, and sheer artistry make them well worth the investment.
Next time you’re choosing a bottle, ask yourself: do you want something mass-produced, or do you want to savour a spirit crafted with heart and passion?
For those looking to explore small-batch distillation firsthand, why not book a visit to The Shropshire Distillery and discover the difference for yourself?
