White Peak Distillery is proud to announce the release of the third generation of Wire Works Necessary Evil Finish, a bold and expressive limited-edition whisky that celebrates provenance, innovation, and local partnership.
Born in the heart of Derbyshire, this release continues the award-winning collaboration between White Peak Distillery and the renowned Thornbridge Brewery. The whisky is created using White Peak’s lightly-peated single malt, initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels before undergoing a distinctive finishing period in casks that previously held Thornbridge’s world-renowned imperial stout, Necessary Evil – winner of the 2024 World’s Best Flavoured Beer at the World Beer Awards.
What makes this release truly unique is the journey of the casks themselves. Originally STR (shaved, toasted, re-charred) ex-red wine casks, they began life with Wire Works whisky, were repurposed to age Thornbridge’s Necessary Evil, and finally returned to the distillery to finish this very release. This circular journey tells a deeper story of Derbyshire craft, connection, and flavour.
Co-founder Max Vaughan shares:
“We’ve had a strong relationship with Thornbridge since we began. We use their spent brewer’s yeast in all our fermentations – collecting it weekly is part of our routine. Necessary Evil Finish brings the story full circle: whisky that begins with Thornbridge yeast, and ends in their stout casks. It’s a beautiful reflection of shared heritage and commitment to quality.”
Tom Lindsey, White Peak’s whisky lead and brand ambassador, adds:
“We allowed this final finish to sit for around eight months, leaving headspace in the cask to encourage subtle oxidation. The result is a wonderfully complex whisky with mellow, fruit-forward and savoury notes.”
The inaugural 2022 release received a Gold medal at the Global World Whisky Masters, and this latest edition continues the series’ growing legacy. Bottled at 51.3% ABV, the 2025 release offers depth, warmth, and bold flavour, staying true to the house character while pushing boundaries.
Release date: 25th July
Availability: From the Distillery and selected UK retailers including Master of Malt and The Whisky Exchange
RRP: £69
Tasting Notes
Overview: Sweet and savoury layers of hazelnuts, dark chocolate, coffee, dates, cranberries, and a gentle wisp of smoke.
Nose: Vanilla fudge, milk chocolate digestives, roasted coffee, crème brûlée, baked apple, marzipan, sage, and strawberry laces.
Palate: Cacao nibs, Black Forest gateaux, cracked pepper, marmite on toast, Seville orange, spearmint, and espresso.
Finish: Rich dark chocolate, murray mints, dark cherries, roasted malt, and soft smoke.
