We’re delighted to reveal the latest issue of our No.3 magazine, which explores the theme of “craft”. In this edition, we meet the coopers of Loch Lomond Distillery, discover how winemakers craft extraordinary expressions in extreme conditions, and explore Piedmont through the photographer’s lens. 

Let me start by painting a specific picture. At Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, the walls are marked with all manner of strange etchings. Names of visitors from bygone centuries, lovers’ initials, circles to protect against witchcraft. Carved into the sandstone, these walls have a unique patina, textured with the passage of time. The oldest markings of all are rudimentary stars and arrows. These are the signatures of the 14th century bricklayers, etched into each block so they could be paid accordingly at the day’s end. 

A simple signature, the maker’s mark. It takes seconds to etch, but the information it contains is vital. Like all graffiti, it is a declaration: I was here. I made this. It speaks to the artisan’s personhood, their presence in the world. The things we create contain a little part of us, preserving our memory for posterity. In this way, craft makes space for a dialogue through time. We pick up the threads of those who have come before us, while speaking directly to future generations. 

The spirit of craft lies at the heart of the latest issue of our No.3 magazine. It is a celebration of creativity and all sorts of labours of love. We raise a glass to makers and craftspeople of all stripes – from winemakers and teamakers to coopers and photographers. We travel to wild frontiers, meeting the producers collaborating creatively with extreme forces. We take a closer look at the everyday objects that live in our homes, the signs that adorn our streets, and in doing so, we reveal the quiet magic that craft lends to our daily lives. 

This is just a brief taste of what lies in this issue. There’s plenty more besides that too, but I wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise.  

Delve into our digital magazine here or pick up a printed copy in our Basingstoke Shop, our Wine Shop at 63 Pall Mall, or our Spirits Shop at No.1 St James’s Street