Beefeater’s Desmond Payne to retire after nearly 60 years in gin
The MBE-awarded distiller behind Beefeater 24 and the brand’s flavoured gins will retire later this year after almost six decades in the trade.
Beefeater has announced that its master distiller Emeritus, Desmond Payne MBE, will officially retire later this year, bringing to a close an almost 60-year career in the gin industry.
Payne, widely regarded as the most experienced gin distiller in the world, spent three decades leading the Beefeater brand, playing a central role in shaping its modern identity while safeguarding its historic London Dry recipe.
Six decades at the still
During his tenure, Payne oversaw Beefeater’s rise to become the world’s most awarded gin, with a portfolio that balances heritage and innovation. He was responsible for the creation of Beefeater 24, a super-premium gin featuring Japanese and Chinese teas, as well as a series of flavoured expressions including Beefeater Pink Strawberry and Beefeater Blood Orange.
Throughout his career, Payne remained custodian of the original recipe created by founder James Burrough, ensuring consistency and quality while expanding the brand’s global appeal.
Reflecting on his retirement, Payne said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to be the guardian of Beefeater Gin and see the brand thrive over these last three decades. But all good things must come to an end, and it is time for me to retire and pass the baton onto the next generation.”
Partner Content
He added that his role had been “more than a job”, describing it as a chance to follow his passion while respecting the craftsmanship of those before him. Payne also expressed confidence in the current distilling team, noting that “Adam and the rest of the distilling team will continue to champion Beefeater, creating only the highest quality liquids deserving of the Beefeater name”.
An industry-wide legacy
Payne’s career has been recognised with numerous honours. He was awarded an MBE by the late Queen Elizabeth II, received the IWSC Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and The Gin Guild’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.
Murielle Dessenis, Global VP Marketing Gins at Beefeater, paid tribute to Payne’s contribution, describing him as a “revered and trusted custodian of the Beefeater brand”. She added that while the moment brought “gratitude, pride and a touch of sadness”, there was also “excitement for what the future will hold”.
Passing the baton
Payne stepped into the Master Distiller Emeritus role three years ago, at which point Adam Cocker became Head Distiller. Cocker will continue to lead Beefeater’s distilling team, guarding the original recipe while developing new innovations for the brand.
Beefeater is part of the global portfolio of Pernod Ricard.
Related news
Brisbane Airport opens brewery, distillery and beer garden
