WHAT’S said to be the Isle of Mull’s first new distillery in over two centuries has been launched after the firm behind Whitetail Gin moved its production in-house.
Whitetail Spirits was aided in the endeavour with support from Business Gateway Argyll and Bute, which helped the producer access funding for its expansion plans, enabling the company to purchase essential equipment and move its distilling operation to the owner’s family estate at Tiroran on Mull.
A new still will allow the firm to produce 250 bottles a day as well as smaller bottles and new expressions; it is also set to launch a range of five liqueurs that will also be produced at the new facility.
Launched in 2017, the 47% ABV Whitetail Gin, which is named after the white-tailed eagles that nest around Tiroran, had previously been produced in London by Thames Distillers and is made using botanicals sourced from the family estate, including sea kelp from the loch, heather and winter savoury.
Jamie Munro, founder of Whitetail Spirits, said: “The funding support provided through Business Gateway gave us the incentive to proceed with the investment required to purchase our micro-still and grow our business.
“Thanks to their support, we are looking forward to increasing and diversifying our product range.
“More generally, we are excited to established Mull’s first on-island distillery in over 200 years and move our production from London back to our family home.”
Angela Vernel, business adviser at Business Gateway, said: “Whitetail’s expansion is a great indicator of the strength of demand for Scottish gin, both in the UK and worldwide.
“Jamie had already tapped successfully into this market but by recognising Business Gateway could help him with funding options for his growth business, he has been able to expand production.”
