James Mason joins Cotswolds Distillery

James Mason, formerly of LVMH and most recently head of sales at Nyetimber has joined the Cotswolds Distillery as its global head of sales.

Mason replaces John Jeffrey in the role, and will be responsible for key UK accounts and exports with immediate effect.

James holds degrees from the University of Oxford and INSEAD. Prior to Nyetimber he had a career at Moet Hennessy holding management roles in sales strategy and international business development.

Daniel Szor, founder and CEO of the Cotswolds Distillery, says: “We’re very excited to have James joining us in this key role, particularly with the launch of our Cotswolds Single Malt now less than a year away. James has great experience in the premium drinks sector and this will help build on the already-strong growth of our exciting brand”.

Mason comments: “The tremendous success of the Cotswolds Distillery’s first product, Cotswolds Dry Gin, is clear evidence of the traction this fantastic brand has developed in a very short time – it is also testament to the continued interest in premium spirits with real authenticity and terroir. I am delighted to become part of the team and am looking forward to further expanding the brand both domestically and also internationally”

The Cotswolds Distillery began production on its North Cotswolds site in September 2014 and already has an award-winning product – Cotswolds Dry Gin – now on sale nationally and in over 15 countries.

The distillery has become a local attraction, offering tours and tastings daily, and has been receiving nearly 20,000 visitors a year. It represents an investment of £5 million, much of which was by the founder, through local investors and also through its highly-successful “Angels’ Share” crowdfunding round earlier this year.

21 October 2016 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, editorial assistant