Gin is to be distilled for the first time at The Benromach Distillery in Forres. The new gin will be called Red Door Gin, after the distillery’s distinctive red doors, and will be available later this summer.
Ewen Mackintosh, (Pictured) Benromach’s Managing Director, explains, “Announcing our intention to distil gin is part of our long-term plan to grow our business beyond whisky into new spirit categories.
“We have been closely monitoring the success of the gin market for several years and, with growth predicted to continue, we feel confident that we can bring a unique and exciting new product to spirits drinkers eager for a brand with heritage and authenticity.
“As a company with international routes to markets already in place, we are looking forward to working with our existing trade customers to add Red Door Gin to the portfolio of Benromach whisky expressions they currently offer.
“Distilling gin is a clear progression for our business and will allow our existing consumers to explore a different spirit category. We will also be engaging with new consumers who are looking for the reassurance that their gin has been lovingly handmade by our dedicated team of distillers.”
As one of the most popular visitor attractions in Forres, the distillery already attracts more than 13,000 visitors annually and now work is underway at the site to refurbish the former malt barn with the installation of a new gin still and visitor experience to tell the story of Red Door Gin and the personalities who craft it. The company expect the new gin visitor experience to draw an additional 10,000 visitors a year.
Ewen Mackintosh continued, “By creating a gin distillery and visitor experience, we are investing significantly in the town. We’re proud of our role in the local community and the part we continue to play in attracting visitors to Forres. We hope this will bring a further boost to tourism in the local area.”
Red Door Gin will be handmade by distillers on site. The small-batch London gin will have a heart of the finest juniper, infused with locally influenced botanicals.