FROM making gin in her Grandad’s garden annexe to now opening up a brand-new venture in the heart of Andover, Kate Griffin has had a remarkable five years.

On Friday the founder of Wessex Spirits marked the official opening of the company’s new home, The Gin Palace, in the town centre.

When the old Lamb Inn became available Kate jumped at the chance and asked Tim Abraham from The Andover Tap if the business wanted to come under the same roof, after getting the keys in September last year the 17th Century building was given the love and care it so desperately needed. It began welcoming customers in November.

Kate previously had a tasting room, which fitted around eight people, in her former premises, but she was running out of space as bespoke gin became more popular.

The Gin Palace has four tasting rooms and a unique events space for up to 30 people. It is open for pre-booked tasting events, community groups and corporate bookings. Production of the gins has also moved to The Gin Palace.

Wessex Spirits is celebrating its fifth birthday, with Kate currently making eight of her own gins and 20 for other people to sell.

Former teacher Kate said: “It is amazing, I can’t believe it really. I didn’t really have a plan when I started, I was just going to see how it went but I’m so happy here.

“To be under the same roof as The Andover Tap is great, the businesses work so well together.”

The official opening was supported by local MP Kit Malthouse, Cllr Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council and Ange Moon, chair of Andover BID, along with dozens of guests who have been invited to a tour of the premises and a free taster evening.

Steve Godwin, BID manager said: “We are so delighted that Kate and Tim have been able to launch and open this exciting and new local enterprise after months of preparation. Through a union fostered in Andover BID’s shared shop during 2021, Wessex Spirits and The Andover Tap have come together in this lovely old town centre building to launch a new business. It’s a bit different for Andover in as much as one half of the historic building specialising in a variety of flavoured gins with gin tasting whilst the other half house’s Andover Tap with its range of locally produced speciality craft beers, most of which are locally sourced. BID is encouraging quality businesses to invest in the town.”