Masons of Yorkshire: Crafting Authentic Gin the Proper Way

Today, Masons stands as a shining example of British innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship. They didn’t follow the gin trend—they helped create it. And as the gin boom continues, Masons remains a symbol of what can happen when passion meets purpose.

Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, a small but mighty distillery has been quietly setting the benchmark for British gin since 2013. Masons of Yorkshire, founded by Karl and Cathy Mason, isn't just another name riding the wave of the UK gin boom—it’s a trailblazer that helped spark it.

When the husband-and-wife duo launched their first gin on World Gin Day, 13 June 2013, they had no idea their passion project would become a multi-award-winning brand known far beyond the Yorkshire borders. But what started as an idea scribbled on a notepad—born from Karl's frustration at the lack of flavourful, authentic gins—has grown into one of the UK’s most respected independent distilleries.

From Humble Beginnings to Industry Trailblazers

Masons began life modestly, with just 120 bottles produced from their first copper still. Their early operations were split between Bedale Hall, where the offices were based, and a hired still in Cambridge. But the couple had a clear vision: to create a gin that wasn’t just a gimmick, but something truly rooted in tradition, taste, and quality.

Soon, they moved everything under one roof in Aiskew, transforming an old mechanics’ workshop into a thriving distillery. By 2018, Masons was producing over 250,000 bottles a year and had reached a turnover of £3 million. Their commitment to distilling gin the proper way—using traditional copper alembic stills and the London Dry Gin method—quickly set them apart in a crowded market.

Every batch is made using carefully selected botanicals and Harrogate Spring Water, ensuring a balanced, bold flavour in every drop. There are no artificial additives, no shortcuts—just expertly crafted spirits made in Yorkshire, the right way.

A Journey of Resilience

Despite their rapid success, the journey hasn’t always been smooth. In April 2019, disaster struck when one of the stills exploded, causing a significant fire at the distillery. Thankfully, no one was injured, but the damage was extensive.

Just as they began rebuilding, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Yet, true to their community-first values, Masons pivoted their production to create hand sanitiser, which they donated to RAF Leeming and local businesses across Bedale.

These challenges could have derailed a lesser business—but for Karl and Cathy, adversity only strengthened their resolve. Their unwavering commitment to quality and doing things “The Masons Way” became the cornerstone of their brand identity.

More Than Just Gin

Masons was Yorkshire’s first gin distillery, leading the charge at the dawn of the UK gin renaissance. Their pioneering spirit inspired over 60 other distilleries to launch in the county alone.

But what makes Masons different isn’t just their head start—it’s their refusal to chase trends. In Karl’s words: “A lot of the gins on the market today are just flavoured alcohol, cashing in on the gin boom. We never went pink. We distil with real juniper and botanicals for a pure, authentic taste.”

This dedication has earned them over 180 industry awards, multiple visits from Prime Ministers, and even invitations to Buckingham Palace—all while remaining fiercely independent and proudly Yorkshire.

A Gin for Every Palate

Masons of Yorkshire isn’t about producing just one good gin—it’s about creating a range of spirits that cater to different tastes, without compromising on quality. Here are two examples:

• Tea Edition: A nod to Britain’s favourite brew, this edition offers a drier, more herbal gin, perfect for those who enjoy earthy, refined flavours.

• Fruits of the Tropics Edition: For those who prefer something vibrant and citrus-led, this edition bursts with fruity notes and a refreshing finish.

Each edition is expertly balanced, with every botanical distilled for maximum flavour. Whether you’re a gin purist or someone looking to explore new flavour profiles, there’s a Masons gin for you.

Made the Masons Way

At the heart of everything Masons does is an uncompromising dedication to craft. From the moment botanicals are selected, to each label applied by hand, and every customer query answered, “The Masons Way” is about doing things properly.

Each batch is tested by a dedicated tasting panel to ensure it meets the highest standards. Nothing leaves the distillery unless it’s up to scratch—because quality, for Masons, is non-negotiable.

Beyond the Ordinary

Today, Masons stands as a shining example of British innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship. They didn’t follow the gin trend—they helped create it. And as the gin boom continues, Masons remains a symbol of what can happen when passion meets purpose.

So next time you raise a glass, make it something extraordinary. Make it Masons of Yorkshire—gin as it should be.

Discover more about Masons of Yorkshire and shop their full range of award-winning gins at masonsgin.com

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