Think Gin 2017 Awards: Winners announced

By Jo Gilbert

Published: 10 March, 2017

This week Harpers' held its third Think Gin event to celebrate the growth of this versatile, yet undeniably British spirit.

As we demonstrated at the event, gin boasts a stellar track record in 2016, accounting for the majority of all Christmas spirits' growth, full-year double-digit growth across the on and off-trade (in value and volume - WSTA figures), and racking up £474 million in exports (+12% on 2015) according to HMRC.

Tastings, masterclasses and discussions all appeared on Think Gin's agenda, with the aim of mapping out gin's future and planning where this dynamic category is heading next.

But equally important was celebrating the success of those gin advocates who have worked tirelessly over the year to make the category what it is today.

That's why Think Gin 2017 culminated in our annual awards, where we celebrated the efforts of individuals and companies, voted by the trade for the trade.

Without further ado, here are the winners:

Best Independent Gin Bar sponsored by Hi-Spirits

Winner: The Oliver Conquest

The winner of the Best Independent Gin Bar is a gin oasis which was opened in 2010 by a passionate wife and husband team.

Initially listing around 50 gins, this collection has now grown to 340 labels, including their very own gin made in partnership with the team at the Gin Foundry.

Best Independent Gin Retailer sponsored by 10 Degrees C

Winner: Gerry's Wines & Spirits

Independents are tapping into the wonderful array of craft spirits, offering increasingly adventurous and exciting ranges.

One such merchant is Gerry's Wines & Spirits who stand out for championing the category with passionate sales techniques and overall drive.

Best Gin Bar with Multiple Sites Sponsored by Marussia

Winner: Mr Fogg's

The creative minds behind the wonderful gin-fused Tipsy Tea Special took home this year's accolade for Best Multiple Gin Bar.

Think Gin 2017 Winners Think Gin 2017

Best Multiple Sites Gin Retailer sponsored by Hayman's Gin

Winner: Waitrose

It's been an exciting year for gin in the off-trade, as the number of gin shoppers increased by 500,000 at Christmas compared to the previous year.

This year, Waitrose stood out for its efforts to seize a bigger share of this growing and lucrative market.

Best Gin Wholesaler sponsored by Fever-Tree

Winner: Speciality Drinks

With many 100s of gins in its portfolio, including many old and rare labels, Speciality Drinks has a list that is second to none.

It's top-notch selection covers every label and style on the market, and has garnered a reputation for going the extra mile.

Gin Communicator sponsored by Maverick Drinks

Winner: Leon Dalloway

Leon Dalloway was awarded the Gin Communicator of the year for his contribution to educating consumers and members of the trade, helping to keep the spotlight firmly on gin.

Lifetime Achievement award

Winner: Christopher Hayman

Born into the fourth generation of a distilling family, Hayman is one of the UKs leading experts on gin.

During 50 years at the forefront of the industry, he has acted as chairman of the UK Gin and Vodka Association, played a major role in spirits education by helping to set up the WSET Award Spirits Certificate, become Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers and founded the Gin Guild.

Think Gin 2017 Panel discussion at Think Gin