British tailor launches spirits brand Drapers

A British tailor is turning his hand to designing spirits with new British brand Drapers.

The brand launched this month with two products: a rhubarb, cardamom and orange-flavoured pink gin and a smoked oak and vanilla-flavoured spiced rum.

Drapers was co-founded by Matthew Wignall, who launched a tailor-come-gin-bar in Leeds called Tailors in 2018, and Jamila Juma-Ware, proprietress at Tailors Speakeasy.

Wignall said he took inspiration from his background in bespoke tailoring for the Drapers spirits, paying close attention to “the structure and design of the brand” and incorporating “the essence of British craftsmanship”.

“We’ve combined our passion for textiles, design and travel with our love of authentic food and drink experiences to be able to bottle a sensational experience,” he said. “Each bottle is designed with the latest fabric trends in mind and conforms a bold presence on any shelf.”

Juma-Ware added: “We wanted to create a collection of spirits which are designed for the senses, from their visual appeal, through to the intense aroma, silky texture and exceptional taste.”

Drapers Rhubarb, Cardamom and Orange Gin is distilled in Yorkshire with 17 botanicals including local rhubarb, mint, chamomile and elderflower.

Meanwhile, Drapers Smoked Oak and Vanilla Spiced Rum is distilled using imported Caribbean molasses with botanicals including ginger, cinnamon and black pepper.

Both are bottled at 40% ABV and are available online via www.drapersengland.com and through independent wine and spirit retailers across the north east of England.