What is Bimber?
Bimber is traditional Polish craft moonshine. At AK Distillery we make it smooth, with no burn and no harsh alcohol aftertaste, so you can actually enjoy your drink. No more harsh vodka, no more heavy mixers.
Where bimber comes from
"Bimber" is the word Poles use for a home-style distilled spirit. Its best-known roots are in the Podlasie region of north-eastern Poland, where it has been made since the 19th century. Generations have poured it at weddings, family gatherings and celebrations.
In English, bimber is usually translated as "moonshine". The idea is similar, but the story is Polish rather than American.
Bimber, made legally in Britain
Traditional bimber was often made at home and without a licence. AK Distillery is different. We're a licensed UK distillery in Stalybridge, Greater Manchester, founded by Agnieszka Gryszka and Krzysztof Nazarow, and we're the UK's first distillery making only bimber. Our bimber is sold to adults aged 18 and over only.
What makes AK bimber different
- Smooth: made to be sipped, not dreaded.
- No burn: no harsh kick at the back of the throat.
- No harsh aftertaste: the flavour stays clean from start to finish.
- Made to be enjoyed: lovely neat, chilled or over ice, with no heavy mixers needed.
The AK range and its strengths
- Traditional Bimber: 60% ABV
- Premium Line: 45% ABV
- 1st Anniversary Manuka & Saffron: 40% ABV
- Flavoured bimber at 30% ABV, including Roasted Hazelnut, Tiramisu, Pistachio, Peach, Passion Fruit, Kiwi, Irish, White Chocolate, Raspberry and limited editions like Hibiscus.
New to bimber? A flavoured bottle is an easy place to start, and our White Chocolate holds a Great Taste 2-star award.
How to serve bimber
Try it chilled from the freezer in a small glass, over ice, or in a simple cocktail. See our bimber cocktails for ideas, or find us at a market for a free miniature tasting.
Common questions
What is bimber?
Bimber is the traditional Polish name for a home-style distilled spirit, often called Polish moonshine in English. AK Distillery makes a legal, licensed, modern craft version in Stalybridge, Greater Manchester.
Is bimber the same as moonshine?
Bimber is the Polish word for it. English speakers usually translate bimber as moonshine, but bimber carries its own Polish tradition rather than the American prohibition story.
Is AK Distillery bimber legal in the UK?
Yes. AK Distillery is a licensed UK producer, and our bimber is made and sold legally, to adults aged 18 and over only.
How strong is AK bimber?
Traditional Bimber is 60% ABV, the Premium Line is 45% ABV, the 1st Anniversary Manuka & Saffron is 40% ABV and our flavoured bimber is 30% ABV.
How should I drink bimber?
Our flavoured bimber is made to be enjoyed neat, chilled or over ice, or in a simple cocktail. You don't need heavy mixers to cover the taste.
Please enjoy responsibly. 18+ only.