Orcadian honey and Scottish raspberries used in gin
THE ancient Norse goddess of bees, Beyla, has provided both the name and the inspiration for the fifth addition to Orkney Distilling’s spirits range.
Launched to coincide with World Gin Day on June 8, Kirkjuvagr Beyla is described as an Old Tom-style pink gin which utilises both Orcadian honey, made by bees that are said to visit the distiller’s garden in Kirkwall, and Scottish raspberries.
Naming the gin after the Norse goddess continues the Kirkjuvagr brand’s tradition of celebrating Orkney’s Viking and seafaring heritage.
“Orkney provenance is hugely important to us, across all elements of our business, from the inspiration for our branding to our locally-grown botanicals,” said Orkney Distilling’s managing director, Stephen Kemp.
“In Norse mythology, Beyla was the goddess of bees, with a strong connection to the earth, and we share that bond with the Orkney landscape.
“When we learned that one of our friends, who is a local beekeeper, was producing honey from bees flying a path over, and frequenting our botanical crops, we jumped at the chance to incorporate it into our latest gin.
“It just deepens the significance of the product in terms of how it connects with our brand themes and ideals.
“We also believe customers appreciate the authentic provenance and quality of our ingredients.”
