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Adnams head distiller John McCarthy dies
By Melita KielyJohn McCarthy, head distiller at English producer Adnams, died suddenly on 12 October at the age of 55.

Adnams, based in Southwold in Suffolk, England, paid tribute to McCarthy, who was praised as an “integral part of our Adnams team”.
McCarthy spent more than 20 years at Adnams. His tenure originally began as an electrical engineer for the company. As his interest in brewing and distilling grew, he went on to study and successfully pass his brewing exams.
In 2009, he was selected to be the lead engineer in Adnams’ new distillery project. His efforts include developing more than 30 gin recipes in the lab ahead of the distillery’s official opening, and he became known for his “innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality”, the distillery said.
McCarthy continued to develop a range of spirits for Adnams, which have collected a number of international awards.
He achieved his diploma in distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, and was a member of The Worshipful Company of Distillers, The Gin Guild and The English Whisky Guild.
Jenny Hanlon, Adnams CEO, said: “We are so deeply saddened to learn of John’s death. He was a wonderful friend, mentor, colleague – and an incredibly talented and devoted professional too.
“John had time for everybody and anybody – no matter how busy he was. He was one of those special people who really left an impression.
“His expertise and dedication undoubtedly transformed Adnams into a leader in the craft distilling movement. John’s passion for his craft and his belief in the power of community were truly inspiring. He will be deeply missed by all of us.”
Fergus Fitzgerald, production director, added: “It has been a privilege to work alongside John and to have seen his evolution from engineer to distiller.
“John loved the process and the art of distilling, and we were fortunate that he found that passion with us. John has left us with a wealth of stories and a library of wonderful spirits to toast him with, long into the future.”
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