Mackintosh Gin is a product of James and Deborah's dedication and passion. It comes from Angus, a region in Scotland with a rich history of Vikings, Romans, Picts, and Celts. This area, known as 'The birthplace of Scotland', is where their gin journey began.
James grew up in Dundee, exploring the Sidlaws. Deborah spent her youth in Perth, wandering through Kinnoull Hill. They fell in love early and eventually settled in rural Angus. This location, with stunning landscapes and exceptional food and drink, was ideal for them.
Origins
The couple's love for gin led them into the gin world. They attended festivals, masterclasses, and tastings. The idea to make their own gin came after their collection grew to 50 bottles. What started as a playful thought at a gin festival became serious. They launched Mackintosh Gin in October 2018.
Family is key to the Mackintosh brand. Their three daughters helped develop the brand. The logo, the 'Lover’s' Knot', is inspired by a 9th-century Pictish stone from Meigle. This symbol represents the seasons' cycle and Mother Earth's power.
Mackintosh Gin
The gin's journey started in 2016 at a gin festival. It has since won awards, including Scottish Gin of the Year in 2020 and 2021. The ethos is quality over quantity, focusing on superior gins.
The couple commits to ethical practices that benefit people, animals, and the environment. They aim to set a positive example.
Deborah, a co-founder and Mental Health Nurse, loves cooking and relaxing at Hydro Hotels. James, a Veteran, photographer, and entrepreneur, enjoys motorcycle rides and dancing with Deborah.
Award-winning Spirits
Since 2018, they have produced their gin at Distillutions Distillery in Arbroath, under Lewis Scothern. Financial limits led them to share Lewis's space, where they learned and participated in the process.
Their gin is made in small batches in a 200-litre still. focussing on high-quality ingredients. They oversee everything from weighing botanicals to the eight-hour distillation process. They use only the "heart" of the distillation for its refined flavours. After letting the gin mellow, it's bottled at the distillery.
Their single-shot distillation method ensures quality and flavour. They don't chill filter their gin to maintain taste, even if it becomes cloudy when cold. The result is a smooth, flavour-rich gin that leaves you wanting more.