In 2020 we reported that only three new Scottish gin distilleries opened - a drop of almost 84 per cent, but online sales were up.
In 2021, there were fewer new Scottish gin brands launched but the number of gins released was up, as co-founder of the Gin Cooperative, Natalie Reid explained.
“The picture from 2021 in terms of new brands and new gins shows that although there were less new Scottish Gin brands launched in 2021 - down 37% from 2020 with 11 new brands - the number of Scottish Gins released in 2021 was up by 13% from 2020 with 117 new Scottish Gins.
"Established Scottish Gin brands introduced new Scottish Gin expressions, including some special edition and limited edition gins along with expanding their range of gins with some core gin styles including Old Tom’s and Cask Aged gins.
"London Dry style of gin saw the biggest number of gins making up 37% of the new gins released.
"The number of new distilleries producing Scottish Gin remained the same as 2020 with three new distilleries opening their doors and producing Scottish Gin, although there are a number of new distilleries who will be producing Scottish Gin in the first few months of 2022."
The overall picture seems to be one of established brands adding to their portfolio of Scottish Gins, and offering more choice to the consumer.
Despite Brexit and Covid-19, the Scottish gin scene is still going strong.
Gin also appears to be catching up with Scotch in terms of distilleries as 2021 saw 114 distilleries producing gin in Scotland, around 16 less than whisky.
To find out more about the gin distilleries and shop gins, visit The Gin Cooperative website.
