Selection of Scottish gins at 56 North

The gin market is currently booming with sales expected to reach over £1.3 billion by 2020. The worldwide demand for gin has dramatically increased each year where 40 million bottles of branded gin was purchased within the UK last year.

Despite gin being primarily known as a traditional British drink – 70% of the UK’s gin is actually produced in Scotland. The tourism industry has significantly helped to raise Scotland’s gin profile, showcasing our incredible distilleries and exquisite gin bars, attracting more and more visitors to enjoy the wonderful spirit and its heritage.

Originally, gin was discovered as a herbal medicine produced from juniper berries which was used to treat a variety of medical issues such as kidney and stomach illnesses. Now, consuming the spirit in moderation can provide many health benefits – calming joint pain, aiding digestion, and even help you live longer!

Although whisky has dominated the Scottish spirit industry for years, Scotch whisky distillers have been producing their own gin since 2010. From the tip of the Highlands and Islands where brands such as Caorunn and The Botanist are produced, down to the array of gin brands produced in Edinburgh, Scotland is proud to play a major role in craft gin distilling.

Embarking on a gin tour is a fresh, insightful way to explore how the spirit is produced which is becoming more and more popular as the gin market prospers. Edinburgh Gin has been developing award – winning, premium gins for seven years, and has two fantastic distilleries situated in the heart of Edinburgh. The Distillery & Visitor Centre, located in the West end of Edinburgh, welcomes guests to discover Edinburgh’s gin heritage and is ranked in the top 20 Edinburgh Visitor Attractions. Open 7 days a week, be sure to book a marvellous gin tour whilst in Edinburgh.

Located at Summerhall in Edinburgh, Pickering’s Gin distillery uses 9 botanicals to hand- craft their award- winning, premium gin. Hosting one hour guided tours and tastings three days a week at fantastic value for money, it is an attraction which must be experienced. In addition, Summerhall is home to the annual Edinburgh Juniper Festival which takes place every June, promoting a range of gin brands.

There is an abundance of gin bars in Edinburgh where no matter if you are a gin ‘novice’ or ‘connoisseur’, there is a place that will suit you. 56 North, an intimate cocktail bar situated in Edinburgh’s old town offers over 200 types of gin for you to enjoy, with a friendly team of staff who can make personal recommendations for you. Delivering excellent gin masterclasses, you can discover and learn something new too. In addition, One Square at the Sheraton has a collection of more than sixty gins and even boasts their own distinctive ‘One Square Gin’ in collaboration with Pickering’s Gin. Used in a variety of speciality cocktails or complimenting a usual G&T, you must visit One Square during your stay in Edinburgh. The Jolly Botanist, near Haymarket, West End, is an award-winning gin bar and dining room. The gin bar opened in 2015 and has been a clear success with gin fans ever since. With a Victorian style décor, the bar has a very unique image and is a delight to sit back and relax whilst enjoying all the gins on offer.

The Ben Doran Guest House is just a few minutes from Edinburgh City Centre, located on the main bus route and is a fantastic location to stay whilst experiencing Edinburgh’s true gin heritage. Book direct for the best rates and special offers.