Benromach to break with whisky tradition and release a gin

Benromach Distillery, owned by Scotch bottler Gordon & MacPhail, has unveiled plans to break with its whisky heritage and release a gin which is expected to hit the shelves this summer.

Named after the distillery’s distinctive doors, the release of Red Door Gin is part of the company’s long-term strategic growth plans, according to its managing director Ewen Mackintosh.

Following a six-figure investment, the distillery is refurbishing a former malt barn and installing a new gin still and visitor centre on site.

Based in Forres, Moray, the new centre is expected to bring an additional 10,000 visitors to the site annually. The distillery already attracts around 13,000 visitors a year.

Ewen Mackintosh commented: “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”.

“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”.

The London Dry gin will be made in “small batches” with dominant notes of juniper and infused with local botanicals.

The distillery had hinted at its growth plans at the beginning of this year, announcing that it was expanding its whisky warehousing facilities following a 27% uptick in sales.