BrewDog prowls into spirits market with LoneWolf

By Jo Gilbert

Published: 27 April, 2017

Leading craft brewers BrewDog are aiming to take craft distillation to “new levels” with the launch of their first spirits range.

LoneWolf is now on the prowl with two inaugural releases: a vodka and a gin, which are both produced all under one roof in a purpose-built distillery in Ellon, Aberdeenshire.

Head distiller, Steven Kersley, in collaboration with German engineering company, Arnold Holstein, has spearheaded the project, which creates all its spirits on site.

“Our new purpose-built facility takes craft distillation to new levels,” Doug Bairner, LoneWolf MD, said.

“To create a spirit that is pure of bloodline. You need to truly start from scratch, so LoneWolf Vodka and LoneWolf Gin is created entirely under one roof. Every stage is owned and crafted in our Scottish distillery.

“It is commonplace for spirit brands to bulk-buy their base alcohol from a supplier and redistill with their own botanicals. We are custodians of our liquid at every stage of its creation and believe that our exacting processes give the best possible spirit.”

The brand has been in the works for two years.

Production has taken place entirely on-site at the distillery, which boasts the world’s only triple-bubble still and the tallest rectification column of any craft distiller in Europe at 18 metres tall, according to the company.

Plans are also in the works to expand the range to include whiskies and other spirits in the future, as are plans to release a line of tonic and soda which will be specifically paired to the spirits.

The two mixers in the range will be the LoneWolf Tonic, designed to complement LoneWolf Gin through its use of pink grapefruit, and the LoneWolf Mint Soda, to be paired with its Vodka.

“When three-quarters of the most popular pour for gin and vodka is made up of tonic, we can’t understand why no other spirits brands have developed dedicated mixers,” Bairner said of the business decision to pursue mixtures, which has seen signicant growth recently.

“Our mixers accentuate the unique flavour profile of our spirits – allowing us another dimension of control to deliver the best possible drinking experience.”

LoneWolf Vodka and Gin will be available to the on-trade and stocked in BrewDog’s craft beer bars.

It will also be stocked by BrewDog’s online shop with an RRP of £32 for 70cl.

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