Dunnet Bay

Gin Production:

Dunnet Bay Distillery is known for its production of handcrafted gin. In addition to classic gin, which includes botanicals such as seaweed, lemon shrub, licorice salt, sea buckthorn, and rose root along with traditional botanicals, the distillery also produces an Old Tom Gin and Rock Rose Pink Grapefruit Gin.

Production Process:

The distillation process at Dunnet Bay Distillery takes place on a copper still with a capacity of 500 liters. The botanicals are placed in an aroma basket next to the still, and as the alcohol vapor rises, it picks up the aromas of the botanicals. The distillery initially started with one pot still named ‘Elizabeth,’ named after Queen Elizabeth. Due to the success and demand for thaeir gin, they added a second pot still named ‘Margaret,’ after the production manager’s mother.

History:

The founders of Dunnet Bay Distillery, Claire and Martin Murray, had a long-standing desire to produce high-quality handcrafted gin. However, they initially faced challenges due to legislation that required a still with a capacity of at least 1,800 liters, which they couldn’t afford. After two years of negotiations, they were able to start with their first pot still, ‘Elizabeth.’ Their goal was to sell 10,000 bottles in the first year, but they exceeded this target in the first quarter alone with 9,000 bottles. This success allowed them to expand their production and add the second pot still, ‘Margaret.’ Today, the distillery produces several gin varieties and vodka.

Visitor Centre:

Dunnet Bay Distillery offers a 1.5-hour distillery tour for visitors, taking them through the distillery to learn about the production process. It is recommended to register for the tour in advance through the distillery’s website.

Visitor information:

Martin & Claire Murray
Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd
Dunnet, Caithness KW14 8XD
Tel: +44(0)1847-851287
Email: info@dunnetbaydistillers.co.uk