Hambly Lavender Farm Wins Gold for Dutch Mill Lavender Essential Oil

Some things on the farm happen slowly.

Lavender takes time to mature. Distillation takes patience. And learning how to consistently produce exceptional essential oil takes years of careful observation, refinement, and a willingness to keep learning with every harvest.

That’s part of why this recognition means so much to us.

Hambly Lavender Farm is proud to share that co-founder and head distiller Milton Hambly was awarded a Gold Medal at the 10th Annual International Lavender Oil & Culinary Competition for the farm’s Dutch Mill Lavender Essential Oil.

Even more meaningful: this was Hambly’s very first competition entry.

Over the last four years, Milton has immersed himself in the art and science of lavender distillation — refining techniques batch by batch, season by season, while learning how subtle shifts in harvest timing, moisture, temperature, and distillation methods can completely shape the final oil.

Every bottle is distilled on the farm using a traditional copper alembic still, a time-honored method known for producing exceptionally clean, vibrant aromatics.

The process begins with fresh-cut Dutch Mill lavender harvested at peak bloom from the family farm in San Miguel, California. The lavender goes directly into the still — never stored, never outsourced, and never diluted.

The result is a 100% pure essential oil with a soft, floral, full-bodied aroma that has become a longtime favorite among visitors to the farm.

“Winning gold on our very first entry feels incredibly meaningful,” said Milton Hambly. “We’ve always believed that staying hands-on through every part of the process matters — from the way the lavender is grown to the way it’s harvested, distilled, and bottled. This award feels like recognition for that care.”

Hambly Lavender Farm grows its lavender pesticide-free and harvests much of it by hand before distilling and bottling essential oil entirely on-site. Nothing leaves the property until it’s ready for customers, allowing the farm to maintain complete control over freshness, quality, and traceability from field to bottle.

For co-founder Gina Hambly, the recognition reflects something deeper than a single product.

“This award shines a light on Milton’s craft, but also on the integrity behind everything we make,” she said. “Our essential oil isn’t just lavender. It reflects this land, the work behind the scenes, and the feeling we hope people experience when they bring a little of the farm home with them.”

The medal-winning Dutch Mill Lavender Essential Oil is available online and at the farm store during lavender season, while supplies last.

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