Island Soul, English Spirit
At English Spirit, we’ve always believed that great things take time - and sometimes, great things also take a tropical breeze, acres of sugar cane, and just the right dash of island magic. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Independent Distillers Barbados: a bold, beautiful distillery crafting spirits with heart and heritage. This isn’t just another distillery, this is one of the first new distilleries to open in Barbados in nearly three decades.
It’s been a long time coming, but we’re here to do justice to the island’s illustrious distilling heritage with something fresh, handcrafted, and unapologetically flavourful.
Welcome to Kendall Hill: Where Spirit Meets Soul
Nestled within seventy lush acres of Barbados’ own sugar cane fields, the Kendall Hill Signal Station is now home to Barbadian Spirits - our bold new line of spirits and liqueurs that capture the essence of this remarkable island. This historic spot, once used to signal ships and safeguard the coast, now watches over a different kind of treasure: beautifully crafted spirits distilled using time-honoured techniques and the finest local ingredients.
At the heart of our operation? Gleaming 200-litre copper pot alembic and column stills, where the Caribbean sun meets old-world craftsmanship. Here, we handcraft every drop with care and curiosity, infusing each spirit with personality, provenance, and a touch of rebellion.
Rooted in the Island, Refined by Experts
We believe that the finest spirits begin with the finest ingredients. That’s why our vodka and gin are made from Barbadian sugar cane, not mass-produced grain spirit. Our approach is simple: start with a better base and let the natural beauty of the island do the talking. We infuse our gins with local botanicals, sourcing flavours that reflect the richness of Barbados - from earthy roots to fragrant blooms and citrus-kissed spices. No shortcuts. No compromise.
Behind this spirited venture is a partnership that bridges tradition and innovation. On one hand, we have Peter Odle, a pillar of Caribbean hospitality and tourism, whose decades-long dedication to elevating indigenous businesses is nothing short of legendary. Peter brings deep roots, deep knowledge, and (thankfully) a deep drinks cabinet.
On the other, Dr John Walters, the mad genius of English distilling and founder of English Spirit. A former biochemist who swapped lab coats for tasting glasses, Dr John now crafts the UK’s widest range of spirits from scratch - and he’s bringing the same uncompromising standards to our Barbadian offerings. From sugar cane vodka to gin infused with island botanicals, every spirit has his signature care - and flair.
Introducing Spitfire Spirits: From Island to Icon
Among the first treasures to emerge from Kendall Hill are two flagship creations that perfectly embody the spirit of our new home: Spitfire Vodka and Spitfire Gin.
Spitfire Vodka
A classic vodka reimagined with Barbadian soul. Distilled from 100% Barbadian sugar cane, Spitfire Vodka is an effortlessly silky, clean and creamy delight - soft on the palate with a subtle hint of golden sugar that whispers of its island roots. Whether enjoyed straight from the freezer, swirled over ice with a citrus slice, or used to elevate your favourite cocktail, this vodka delivers sophistication with sunshine in every sip.
Spitfire Gin
A classic London Dry Gin, elegantly embellished with the finesse of Barbados. Spitfire Gin is where tradition meets tropical charm: crisp juniper and hauntingly fragrant coriander take flight into a grove of citrus, before descending into the warm embrace of exotic island botanicals. Aromatic, perfumed, and proudly rooted in place, it’s a gin that captures the best of both worlds.
Serve it over ice, with a slice of lemon, two pink peppercorns, and your favourite tonic or lemonade for a G&T that’s anything but ordinary.
Something Worth Waiting For
Independent Distillers Barbados isn’t just a new venture; it’s a love letter to the island and its potential to produce truly exceptional spirits. We're here to shake up expectations, challenge convention, and - most importantly - create spirits that taste like sunshine in a glass.
Whether you’re sipping Spitfire Vodka under a palm tree or sharing a Spitfire Gin & Tonic with friends at home, one thing’s for certain: you’re tasting something entirely unique, entirely Barbadian - and entirely worth the wait.
Raise a glass to the next chapter in Caribbean craft distilling. It’s been decades in the making, and we’re just getting started.
Cheers to the spirit of Barbados, reborn.
Dr J
