Rating: 4.8 ★ (233 ratings)
Nestled in the Old Depot on Cheney Lane, Fielden Whisky offers a remarkable taste of England's agricultural heart. This isn't just any spirit; it's a testament to a deep connection with the land, crafted from heritage grains grown across 15 English farms using restorative farming techniques. Their signature Fielden Rye Whisky, a blend of 90% maslin (a traditional mix of rye and wheat) and 10% malted barley, is double-distilled and matured in American oak and select ex-wine casks. Expect a complex character with notes of brambles, wildflowers, fresh sourdough, vanilla caramel, and a hint of black pepper and spearmint.
Though production has recently shifted to Yorkshire to allow for expansion, the spirit of its Oxford origins and commitment to biodiversity remains. The move signals a focus on growing their innovative farming movement, which eschews chemicals and tillage to promote wildlife and soil health. While the Cheney Lane distillery in South Park is no longer active for tours, having been decommissioned, the brand continues its mission with a new core rye whisky and plans for future releases. Enthusiasts can still seek out Fielden's unique bottlings, which often feature distinct harvest characteristics, reflecting the nuances of each growing season.
Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday: Closed; Sunday: Closed
+44 1865 767918
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I attended this tour solo, as I've been visiting distilleries up and down the country being a big whisky geek/drinker/collector, and Oxford Artisan Distillery was next on the list. I showed up randomly unannounced, and was pleasantly surprised that Sarah managed to fit me in for a tour, despite being understaffed that day.
The tour was extremely thorough, and Sarah actually overran on the time, which shows they take their time to answer all questions and pay attention to all of their customers.
It was so interesting tasting each of the whiskies they crafted, all whilst learning so much about the history of farming grains, and what their goals and objectives were moving forward. It really is incredible what they're doing at this distillery, and without adding any spoilers for those yet to do the tour, I'd just like to say that you really HAVE to experience this tour if you're a whisky fan.
The entire team at the distillery were so friendly and welcoming, and they all have such open minds about the world of whisk(e)y, and don't blindly just drink their own whisky and call it the best, like many other distilleries I've been to. They're a team of people who genuinely love to drink all types of spirits from all over the world, so they really know their stuff, and we had some really great chats!
Of the 22 different distilleries I've been to, this really has to be the most eye opening and most enjoyable tour I've been on. I can't wait to come back for another tour once the distillery has expanded and see what exciting changes they make to the place. Thanks again for a thoroughly enjoyable day of whisky tasting, education and great, in depth chats about whisky!