Employees at Suffolk brewing and hospitality business Adnams are mourning the death of their 55-year-old head distiller. 

John McCarthy - who had been an integral part of the Adnams team for more than 20 years - died suddenly on Saturday.

He was originally an electrical engineer for the company, he grew more interested in the world of brewing and distilling, and went on to study for, and succeed in, his brewing exams.

By 2009 he was chosen to serve as lead engineer to run the new distillery project.

He became known for his innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality, and went on to develop over 30 different gin recipes in the lab ahead of the distillery’s official opening.

He successfully conceived the recipe for Adnams’ best-selling Copper House Dry Gin - released in 2010 - which received many accolades.

He went on to develop an "extensive and varied range of spirits" for the company, said Adnams, winning many prestigious international awards along the way, including Gold Medals in the World Whiskies Awards and Gold Outstanding in the International Wine & Spirits Competition.

Adnams claimed further accolades including World’s Best Gin, World’s Best Vodka and World’s Best Vodka Producer, as well as England’s Best Rye Whisky during his tenure.

He achieved his Diploma in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling and was a member of The Worshipful Company of Distillers, The Gin Guild and The English Whisky Guild.

Adnams chief executive Jenny Hanlon said: “We are all so deeply saddened to learn of John’s death. He was a wonderful friend, mentor, colleague – and an incredibly talented and devoted professional too.

“John had time for everybody and anybody – no matter how busy he was. He was one of those special people who really left an impression.

“His expertise and dedication undoubtedly transformed Adnams into a leader in the craft distilling movement.

“John’s passion for his craft and his belief in the power of community were truly inspiring. He will be deeply missed by all of us.”

Production manager Fergus Fitzgerald said: “It has been a privilege to work alongside John and to have seen his evolution from engineer to distiller.

“John loved the process and the art of distilling, and we were fortunate that he found that passion with us.

“John has left us with a wealth of stories and a library of wonderful spirits to toast him with, long into the future.”

The distiller worked with local grain to produce spirit which was seen as "the essence of Suffolk".  

His legacy will continue through the many distillers he inspired and the exceptional products he created, said the company.

The Adnams family said it sent its heartfelt condolences to John’s family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.