The Highland Liquor Company from Ullapool, Ross-shire were named winners of the Distilling Product of the Year – White Spirits category as food and drink businesses from across the country came together at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2024.
On the night Seven Crofts Fisherman’s Strength Gin, handcrafted by the Highland Liquor Co team at their distillery in Ullapool, won through against still competition from Buck and Birch’s – BIRCH Premium Botanical Vodka, Isle Of Barra Distillers – Barra Atlantic Gin and North Uist Distillery’s – Downpour Scottish Dry Gin to claim the top spot.
Founded by Helen Chalmers and Robert Hicks, The Highland Liquor Company has grown to create exceptional handmade award-winning spirits in its Northwest Highland home, including the recent addition of a Gold medal, won at the Bartenders Brand Awards (BBA’s) in March of this year and previously the Best New Launch Design at the World Gin Awards 2020.
Robert created the distillery’s first gin Seven Crofts in 2019.
This was later followed by Seven Crofts Fisherman’s Strength, a navy-strength gin, which launched in October 2020, becoming the second iteration in the Highland Liquor Co’s portfolio.
Bottled at 57%, this navy-strength gin is crafted in small batches and delivers a flavour profile that’s juniper-led, with notes of ripe blueberry, cracked black pepper, pink pepper, and a touch of spicy coriander with woody background notes.
Making it the perfect accompaniment to fish and seafood, ideally enjoyed in a martini or classic gin and tonic with a twist of orange.
Robert Hicks co-owner of the Highland Liquor Company said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to have been recognised at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards as Distilling Product of the Year – in the White Spirits category.
“This reaffirms that we have crafted a quality product that resonates with those who take the time to savour its complex and subtle flavour profile.
“Provenance and collaboration are key tenets of what we are about at the Highland Liquor Co, which we hope will stand us in good stead as we explore future possibilities that winning this award will hopefully unlock.’’
Adding:
“Events like this are so important for businesses in Scotland to band together and showcase our fantastic and vibrant industry and help inspire collaboration and innovation across the sector.”
Hosted by author, TV personality and renowned chef, Simon Rimmer, the awards ceremony at The Doubletree was attended by over 500 people from across the industry and the wider community.
Iain Baxter, Chief Executive at Scotland Food & Drink, said:
“The Excellence Awards truly highlight the breadth and diversity within Scotland’s food and drink sector, showcasing a thriving industry that continues to evolve at an exciting pace.
“The quality of this year’s submissions speaks to the resilience and innovation driving our sector forward and we want to offer our heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s winners and finalists.”
The annual awards, which recognise the highest quality produce as well as the leading individuals, suppliers, and companies, come in the wake of the announcement of the Scottish food and drink sector reaching a record high value, contributing £14.8bn to the Scottish economy.
The awards are organised by Scotland Food & Drink in partnership with headline sponsor Asda.
For the full line-up of finalists, please click HERE
