Whisky veterans collaborate on Wolfcraig Gin

Master blenders Richard Paterson OBE and Ian MacMillan have united at the helm of Wolfcraig Distillers to launch a special gin.

Wolfcraig Gin has been described as having notes of juniper, orange peel, vibrant lemon and cassia on the palate. The expression has been infused with 17 botanicals, including raspberry and wild thyme.

The bespoke silver bottle design is textured to reflect wolf’s fur, paying homage to the Wolfcraig legend.

Ahead of the gin’s release, Wolfcraig director Jamie Lunn said: “Anyone in the whisky world will understand what a big deal Richard and Ian bringing their decades of experience into creating their own original premium gin is.

“There are a lot of gins in the market but we expect there to be a lot of curiosity around what two of the most respected names in the whisky world can do with their first collaboration in gin. This is just the start of Wolfcraig's journey.

“It is exciting to have our Wolfcraig Gin as part of our original portfolio to set the bar for our products in the drinks space, and we are looking forward to receiving feedback on our juniper-led sophisticated gin as people choose Wolfcraig as their drink of choice coming into the summer months.”

Paterson retains legendary status within the drinks industry, largely on account of his Whyte & Mackay career where he has served a master blender since 1975, and at The Dalmore Distillery. He was included in the Queen’s honour list in 2021.

MacMillan, meanwhile, has over 40 years experience and has created many recognised single malts for the likes of Bunnahabhain, Tobermory and Deanston.

Macmillan added: “Our gin has been designed to impress even the most discerning gin drinkers. Whether paired traditionally with citrus fruit or part of a classic short cocktail, we are really excited about gin lovers exploring its different expressions for the first time through the summer

“I’m known as a bit of a traditionalist and this is a true pot still distilled premium gin, created by observing the time-honoured methods – this is a unique formulation of botanicals which complement each other in a way that can only be achieved through this most authentic method.

“It was important to Richard and I that our first gin collaboration was high-quality but versatile so it could be enjoyed by everyone from seasoned gin drinkers to casual consumers.”

Wolfcraig Gin is available to buy from their website, priced at £39.95 bottle. The brand will continue releases in this collection later in 2023, with more information found here.

21 June 2023 - Bradley Weir