For the 10th time in Brands Report history Tanqueray has been named the bestselling gin. Since 2013 Diageo’s flagship gin hasn’t left the top two and this year it was the number one choice in 30% of our polled bars – almost twice that of both Beefeater and Bombay. Gin’s role in many classic cocktails makes it one of the most competitive of all…

Payne has spent 30 years at the helm of Beefeater, having stepped into the master distiller emeritus role three years ago, as Adam Cocker took on the role of head distiller.  “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…

The Dewar’s owner is trailing the use of a robotic sensing kit, resembling a dog, at its John Dewar & Sons maturation site near Glasgow. The kit is developed by the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) at its Digital Process Manufacturing Centre (DPMC) in Irvine, supported by the Scotch Whisky Research Institute (SWRI). “Craftmanship and heritage remains at the heart of our…

Hyslop retires after more than 40 years in Scotch whisky, and will continue to support the business as master blender emeritus, working on Chivas Brothers’ prestige whiskies and representing its brands around the world.    “For me, the joy of whisky making lies in pushing boundaries – uncovering new flavours and expressions that invite new audiences in, whilst staying true to Scotch’s legacy.

The brands include Cargo Cult rums, Ouzo of Plomari, a premium anise spirit from Plomari on the island of Lesvos, and Sūpāsawā, a premium sour mix.  “This portfolio expansion underlines our ambition to build one of the most diverse and progressive collections of spirits and drinks brands in the UK market. Each partner brings a strong sense of provenance and relevance, enhancing our…

Russell & Stellar will lead market prioritisation, export strategy and distributor matchmaking. The focus will be on countries where James Gin already sees strong brand relevance and where category dynamics support sustainable growth. “What sets James Gin apart is not just the story, it’s the substance. The flavours are bold. The voice is clear. And the global following is massive – and…

In February 2023, Woodford Reserve announced Elizabeth McCall as its third master distiller, taking over from Chris Morris who helped launch the bourbon back in 1996. The late 20th century was a particularly slow period for the American whiskey category and almost 30 years on, at the infancy of McCall’s reign, the sector is experiencing a similar climate. “I know the timing doesn’t look good,…