Ad Gefrin, England's most northerly whisky distillery, today, 15th June 2026, announces the release of the Crǣft Series — the first Northumbrian English single malt in modern times. 

Three single casks. Three North East artists. One sealed box.

Ad Gefrin has announced the release of its first Northumbrian Single Malt whisky - a milestone moment for the distillery and the region. The inaugural release, titled Crǣft, introduces a series of exclusive single cask bottlings that offer a first glimpse into the future of Ad Gefrin’s whisky-making journey.

Derived from the Old English word for ‘art’ or ‘skill’, Crǣft is a carefully curated collection of single cask releases, each selected for its individuality, character and distinct expression. Each bottle represents a moment in the life of the spirit as it matures and evolves.

The three casks selected for this first release were identified in October 2025, during a period of sampling and assessment. According to Ad Gefrin’s Director of Distilling, Ben Murphy, a handful of casks stood apart; unexpected in character and unique in personality. “These are ready to be shared,” he said.

In a distinctive creative collaboration, each cask has been paired with an emerging North East artist whose work responds to the character of the whisky. The result is three striking, individual label designs, each telling its own story and reflecting a connection between maker, creator and the Northumbrian landscape.

While Crǣft is not the distillery’s final core expression, it represents an early introduction - a rare opportunity to experience Ad Gefrin’s single malt at a formative stage.

Only a limited number of bottles will be available across the three casks, with purchases restricted to one bottle per person. In keeping with the spirit of discovery, buyers will not know which cask they have secured until they break the seal of the presentation box.

Members of Ad Gefrin’s Corenkyn community will receive exclusive early access to pre-order one bottle from 9am on 25 June, ahead of the public launch. The full release will take place from 10am on 1 August, with bottles available exclusively on site at Ad Gefrin.

Crǣft will not be available to purchase online.

Whisky enthusiasts are encouraged to join the Corenkyn membership to secure early access. Further details, including cask profiles, tasting notes and artist stories, will be shared via the Ad Gefrin website.