Introducing Dark Fire: Devon Distillery’s Award-Winning Aged Spirit
At Devon Distillery, we are proud to introduce Dark Fire, our bold and complex aged spirit born from the very essence of our signature Dappa. Dark Fire represents the pinnacle of our craftsmanship, offering a rich, rounded flavour profile that makes it a standout in the world of fine spirits. Aged in second-fill Pedro Ximenez barrels, this spirit boasts layers of depth and complexity, making it the perfect digestif for those who appreciate quality and sophistication.
Having received prestigious accolades such as a 1-star award from the Great Taste Awards, as well as gold awards from Taste of the West and Food Drink Devon, Dark Fire is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Whether you’re a fan of traditional grappa or someone who enjoys exploring new, innovative spirits, Dark Fire offers an experience that is both familiar and exciting.
From Dappa to Dark Fire: The Journey of a Unique Spirit
Dark Fire begins its journey as Dappa, our signature grape marc spirit, which is distilled from the finest red grape varieties, including Pinot Noir and Rondo, sourced from leading UK vineyards. These cold-climate grapes, known for their robust flavours and high quality, provide the foundation for Dappa’s smooth, fruity profile.
Once distilled, we take our Dappa and place it in second-fill Pedro Ximenez barrels, allowing it to age gracefully. The use of these barrels is key to the spirit’s distinct character. Pedro Ximenez, a rich, sweet sherry made from sun-dried grapes, imparts layers of dried fruit, toffee, and caramel into the spirit, while the second-fill oak barrels ensure that these flavours blend harmoniously with the underlying complexity of Dappa. The result is Dark Fire—a spirit that is both bold and refined, with a luxurious mouthfeel and a smooth, lingering finish.
Aged to Perfection in Pedro Ximenez Oak Barrels
The decision to age Dark Fire in second-fill Pedro Ximenez barrels is central to its character. Oak plays an important role in the aging process of spirits, softening the harsher edges of the distillate while adding rich notes of vanilla, spice, and wood. However, by using second-fill barrels, we ensure that the influence of the oak is balanced, allowing the distinctive sweetness and complexity of Pedro Ximenez to take center stage.
These barrels infuse Dark Fire with a unique richness that sets it apart from other aged spirits. Notes of figs, raisins, and dark chocolate emerge from the aging process, while the delicate influence of Pinot Noir and Rondo grapes gives the spirit a smooth, fruity backbone. The marriage of these elements creates a beautifully rounded spirit that’s perfect for sipping neat or over ice.
A Standout Digestif
As a digestif, Dark Fire shines. Its complex flavour profile, featuring layers of dark fruit, spice, and subtle sweetness, makes it the perfect way to conclude a meal. Whether paired with a dessert like dark chocolate truffles or enjoyed on its own, Dark Fire offers a sophisticated and satisfying experience.
Unlike lighter aperitifs, digestifs are designed to aid digestion and provide a comforting close to a rich meal. Dark Fire’s balance of fruit, oak, and Pedro Ximenez sweetness makes it an ideal candidate for this role. The smoothness imparted by its aging process ensures that each sip is both indulgent and refreshing, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
For those who enjoy spirits with complexity and depth, Dark Fire is a versatile digestif that can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or even in a creative cocktail designed to highlight its unique characteristics.
Award-Winning Craftsmanship
Dark Fire’s exceptional quality has not gone unnoticed. It has earned a 1-star award from the Great Taste Awards, a respected accolade that recognizes outstanding flavour, quality, and craftsmanship. In addition, Dark Fire has won gold awards from Taste of the West and Food Drink Devon, further cementing its status as one of the finest spirits produced in the UK.
These awards are a testament to the care and attention that goes into every bottle of Dark Fire. From selecting the finest grape pomace to carefully aging the spirit in Pedro Ximenez barrels, each step of the process is designed to create a truly memorable experience for the drinker.
Perfect Pairings for Dark Fire
While Dark Fire is perfect on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a range of foods and flavours. Here are a few suggestions for enjoying this award-winning spirit:
- Dark Chocolate: The rich, bittersweet notes of high-quality dark chocolate complement the deep fruit and caramel flavours of Dark Fire.
- Coffee-Based Desserts: Desserts like tiramisu or a coffee mousse pair wonderfully with Dark Fire’s complex sweetness.
- Nutty Cheeses: For a savoury option, try pairing Dark Fire with a cheese like aged Gouda or Parmigiano-Reggiano, which will enhance the spirit’s nutty undertones.
Conclusion: Dark Fire—A Spirit Like No Other
In Dark Fire, we have crafted a spirit that brings together the best of traditional distilling methods and innovative aging techniques. By starting with the rich, fruity base of Dappa and aging it in second-fill Pedro Ximenez barrels, we’ve created a spirit that is both complex and approachable, with layers of flavour that unfold with every sip.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional digestifs or someone looking to explore the world of fine spirits, Dark Fire offers a truly unique experience. Its bold, yet smooth profile, coupled with its award-winning pedigree, makes it a standout in any collection. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or as part of a luxurious cocktail, and savour the essence of Devon Distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
