The Leader is continuing to put the spotlight on local independent traders, producers and high street heroes across Wrexham and Flintshire.

If you know of or are a business that goes above and beyond, or has a great story to tell, we want to hear from you, and celebrate our local traders and producers. You can let us know via our Q&A or email claire.pierce@newsquest.co.uk for more details.

The Leader:

HOT WOOD DISTILLERY, Coedpoeth

It was a background in science and seeing life in the gin market, that resulted in a new business venture for Stephen Booth, who runs Hot Wood Distillery from his home in Coedpoeth.

Stephen explains: "I had a traditional educational route of A-Levels followed by a Bsc (Hons) in Anatomical Sciences from Glasgow Uni. However, most of my professional career was in veterinary pharmaceuticals, mainly working with parasiticides and animal vaccines.

"My educational background is mainly science and it struck me that distilling encompasses all three subjects of biology, chemistry and physics.

"Also, from looking at the market it was not only clear that there's a viable market but also that it's not just a fad, it had some longevity."

We find out more…

What does the business do/make/sell?

I make a London dry gin - Hot Wood Gin a true craft product, even producing base alcohol from scratch. Distillation is performed using quality botanicals and bottling and labelling is all done by hand. I am the sole proprietor.

Our gin is a true craft product. We ferment the base alcohol ourselves and infuse eight different botanicals into it - each bottle is given the attention it deserves. It's smooth on the palette and has a distinct juniper flavour with a citrus undertone.

Everything that can be done by hand is done by hand, from sourcing and mixing the botanicals to filling the bottles, labelling and packaging.

The Leader:

What is your most memorable or proudest moment in business?

Achieving full licensing status at the beginning of the process. Also, achieving a very commendable score is the annual Gin Guide tasting process.

Any strange requests?

I've received several requests for a tour of the distillery. Not strange in itself but my licenses are for a residential setting, so a tour would mean a walk around my house and a cuppa! Also, during such unprecedented times, I've had several requests for hand sanitiser. Fortunately, I've been able to oblige.

Anything else we should know?

I produce Hot Wood gin in small batches, enabling me to ensure the highest quality and produce a truly craft product. I am licensed to sell to both trade and retail within local government and HMRC law.

• Hot Wood Distillery

www.hotwooddistillery.co.uk