Dunnet distilling champion goes 'above and beyond in business and in life'
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A popular Caithness businessman at the forefront of the food and drink industry has been recognised for helping others in his sector.
Martin Murray of Dunnet Bay Distillers was chosen by the Gin Cooperative for its inaugural Outstanding Contribution to Scottish Gin award.
The Gin Cooperative Awards 2023 saw entries from new and established producers whose gins were assessed and judged by a panel of 72 judges from industry and consumers.
The new prize recognises an individual, business or organisation’s positive contribution to the Scottish gin Industry, and Mr Murray was selected by the Gin Cooperative.
Natalie Reid, from the Gin Cooperative, said: "We’re delighted and thrilled to award the very first Outstanding Contribution to Scottish Gin award to Martin Murray.
“Over the last five years, one name has come up in conversation a lot. And in a really positive way. We have lost count the number of times we’ve heard how Martin has helped others by providing distilling insight or guidance around HMRC regulations, email exchanges about where to find the best Negroni in a certain city or just a general chat about the Scottish gin category.
“As the co-founder of one of the early Highland-based gin brands, Martin, along with his wife and co-founder Claire, acted as a great example of what a remote Scottish distillery could achieve.
“Often leading the way with new export deals and distribution opportunities for the Rock Rose Scottish gin brand, Martin has been at the forefront of the true craft distilling revolution that’s taken shape in Scotland over the last decade.
“Humble and hardworking, whilst balancing family life and growing an international Scottish gin brand - no mean feat at the best of times. But to always leave the door open for advice and helping others in the industry so everyone benefits, really does go above and beyond in business and in life.
“We have benefited from his help, guidance, generosity, kindness and support whenever we’ve needed to pick his brains.”
Dunnet Bay Distillers is currently conserving a 19th-century mill in Castletown which will open as a £4 million whisky distillery and visitor centre next year.
But the firm’s focus for the last nine years has been on its gin products, with its brands exported around the world.
Mr Murray said: “I’m extremely honoured and completely overwhelmed to have been awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Scottish Gin Award. I'm currently in America on a business development trip and the news left me speechless!
“Winning awards for our distillery and spirits always means a lot, but this is really special for me personally, to be recognised and remembered for helping and supporting others in the industry.”
North Point Distillery, based in Thurso, was awarded Bronze in the Scottish Gin of the Year and the London Dry Scottish Gin categories for its Crosskirk Bay Gin. It also received a Silver award in the Old Tom Scottish Gin category.
