MSP Raises a Glass to Scottish Gin

Ahead of the opening of Pickering’s first ever dedicated gin and seafood bar in Beijing - on Saturday 21 July 2018 - Gordon Macdonald MSP visited Pickering’s Gin distillery to hail the success of the Scottish Gin.

The brand-new venue, which will be located in the popular Chaoyang District of Beijing, showcases Pickering’s gins alongside fresh Scottish seafood. The bar is part of a long-term export strategy for the award-winning Edinburgh distillery, with plans to open Pickering’s Gin and Seafood Bars in many of the major cities in China.

Amongst many drinks that will be available in the Beijing bar is the Pickering’s Oak Aged Gin. A unique, hand crafted, gin which is aged in whisky casks in the Pickering’s distillery – the first exclusive gin distillery to be established in the Capital for over 150 years. The Deputy Convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross-Party Group on Scotch Whisky, Gordon Macdonald, was particularly pleased to see this different way to experience both gin and whisky, and said that it shows “the versatility and possibilities of both spirits”.

The Pickering’s Gin Distillery Tour - recently named Best Visitor Attraction in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife at Visit Scotland’s Thistle Awards - have upgraded their bottling line in order to prepare for increased export demand from both China and the USA. The four-year old distillery has also extended improvements to their visitor experience, expecting increased tourism from the brands increased popularity abroad.

Commenting SNP MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, Gordon Macdonald, said, “This is another brilliant example of the successful reputation of Scotland as a brand and the world’s increasing taste for Scottish food and drink, which is at an all-time high.

“The opening of Pickering’s gin and seafood bar in Beijing also shows the strength of Scotland’s trade links with China, the world’s largest economy.

“It is our unique history and natural environment, alongside the provenance and quality of Scottish food and drink that give us an edge on the global market. Given the new direct flights between Edinburgh and Beijing by Hainan Airlines, our Chinese-Scottish trade relations can only get better.”

Matt Gammell, Head Distiller and Co-founder sees the bar as a stepping stone for both Pickering’s Gin and Scottish produce to take hold in China. Commenting, Gammell said, “The gin industry is in its infancy in China but brand Scotland is very strong presence in the market with the popularity of single malts. Through our partners Panda Brew, we were given the opportunity to introduce our products alongside quality Scottish seafood and give a truly unique experience. We hope that it will become a new landmark in Beijing for both locals and expats alike looking for a great G&T in one of the nicest areas, Sanlitun.”