White Peak Distillery

Established in 2016, White Peak Distillery is the home of Wire Works Whisky, the first full-scale, craft distillery in Derbyshire and the Peak District. Founded by local couple Max and Claire Vaughan, the Distillery is located in the Derwent Valley, celebrating the area’s rich industrial and entrepreneurial heritage.

The Distillery is operated by a small, passionate team, who have created internationally renowned spirits that have put Derbyshire and English single malt on the world stage. The Distillery’s core product is Wire Works Whisky, the region’s first single malt whisky, alongside which is a range of Shining Cliff Gins and White Peak Rum. Wire Works Whisky is now available through a Core Provenance range of Caduro, Bourbon Barrel, and Port Cask, complemented each year with limited edition releases. Proving that world-class spirits can come from a small Derbyshire team, Wire Works Bourbon Barrel was named Best World Whisky at the 2025 Online Scotch Whisky Awards, and Whisky of The Year 2026 by The Whisky Exchange.

All spirits are available at the on-site Distillery shop and via an online store (www.whitepeakdstillery.co.uk), and are stocked by trade partners (retailers, pubs, bars and restaurants) across Derbyshire and beyond.

White Peak Distillery also offers a range of visitor experiences, with weekly tours running on-site throughout the year. As one of the top-rated things to do in Derbyshire (Tripadvisor: 1,000+ reviews average 5.0 stars), the tours offer an insight into the distilling process and the history of the site. Visitors are guided through the working areas by one of the distilling team and can experience first-hand the sound and smell of the whisky-making process. Every tour concludes in the cosy tasting room, with a range of spirits available to be sampled.

For Max and Claire, the goal was always to build a distillery in the area where they grew up and establish a new community and legacy at the former Johnson & Nephew Wire Works. Establishing the region’s first distillery honours the past and future of the local maker in the Derwent Valley.

As we approach ten years in business, we remain committed to the belief that we’re stronger together. Being part of the Bondholder community continues to be an important part of our local network and shared success. The support of the Bondholder community has always helped us amplify our voice and champion what Derbyshire can achieve.

Our dream today is the same as it was when we founded the region’s first whisky distillery — to root our products and experiences firmly in Derbyshire’s unique heritage. This is the place we grew up, a region we care deeply about. With its rich brewing history and long-standing tradition of craftsmanship. We’re proud to play our part in carrying that legacy forward.