I’m David Hunter, partner and Chief Engine Keeper at Chuckle Engine and I’ll be the first to say: there are easier ways to make spirits than the way we do it here in Staffordshire.
But easier doesn’t mean better.
At Chuckle Engine, we’re a small batch craft distillery in Staffordshire, producing premium craft gin, botanical vodka and artisan rum in the UK. And from day one, Sue and I made the decision that if we were going to do this, we’d do it properly - no shortcuts, no compromises.
That’s why we redistil all our spirits with real botanicals.
What Redistillation Means to Me
For me, redistillation isn’t just a process - it’s the beating heart of proper artisan spirit production.
Rather than simply adding flavourings into alcohol (compounding used in lower-cost drinks), we take the time to distil our spirits again with carefully chosen botanicals - juniper, mango, citrus, spices, and whatever mischief we think belongs in the mix. As the spirit runs through the still, it lifts only the finest flavours, leaving behind anything harsh or unbalanced.
What you get at the end is a small batch gin, vodka, or rum that’s:
- Smooth and refined
- Properly balanced
- Full of natural, integrated flavour
That’s what real craft gin UK and botanical vodka UK should taste like.
Why I Refuse to Cut Corners
There’s a quicker route - cold compounding. It’s cheaper, faster, and widely used. But in my view, it’s not how you create the best craft spirits in the UK.
When flavours are just mixed in, they don’t belong there - they sit on top. You get something that might smell bold, but drinks sharp, flat, or artificial. It lacks the depth and smoothness that only proper distillation can deliver.
That’s not what I set out to make, and it’s not what I’d put my name or our reputation on.
Small Batch Spirits, Made Properly in Staffordshire
Being a Staffordshire craft distillery means we stay hands-on. Every batch matters. Every run through the still is watched, adjusted and guided by experience.
Redistillation gives us the control to create spirits that don’t just taste good, they evolve. They open up in the glass. They leave a finish that makes you want to come back for another sip.
So whether you’re looking to:
- Buy gin online UK
- Discover a distinctive botanical vodka
- Or enjoy a characterful artisan rum UK
You’ll notice the difference straight away.
Explore What We Make
Everything we produce follows that same principle—do it right, or don’t do it at all:
- Botanical Vodka (500ml) – A clean, smooth botanical vodka UK, built with subtle layers and a refined finish
- Gin (500ml) – Our version of craft gin UK, properly balanced with bright botanicals and a crisp edge
- Rogue’s Rum (500ml) – A rich yet smooth small batch rum UK, designed with depth and a bit of attitude
Every bottle is crafted in small batches, right here in Staffordshire, with the same care and attention from start to finish.
From My Still to Your Glass
When you buy craft gin, vodka or rum online in the UK, you should know exactly what you’re getting: something made with intention, not convenience.
Redistillation isn’t the easiest path but it’s the one that delivers character, balance and a proper drinking experience. It’s what turns good ingredients into something genuinely special.
For me, that’s what Chuckle Engine is all about - doing things properly, with a bit of personality and just enough mischief to keep it interesting.
David Hunter
Partner & Chief Engine Keeper