Firkin Gin
Travel Distilled tells you all about the Firkin Gin Distillery in Edinburgh including its history, location and whether you can visit Firkin Gin.
Quick Answer
Firkin Gin is a Scottish craft gin brand created by Gleann Mòr Spirits Company in Leith, Edinburgh. It is known for ageing gin in whisky casks, producing unique expressions like Firkin Islay, Firkin Sherry, and Firkin Yuletide. While Firkin Gin has a production base in Leith, it does not currently offer distillery tours.
Firkin Gin Overview
Firkin Gin is one of Scotland’s most innovative gin producers, blending the traditions of whisky maturation with the botanically rich world of gin. Established by the Gleann Mòr Spirits Company, Firkin Gin has carved out a niche by ageing London Dry-style gin in whisky casks, creating a hybrid spirit that appeals to both gin and whisky enthusiasts.
This approach sets Firkin apart from many other Scottish gin makers, who typically focus on botanicals alone. The result is a portfolio of gins that are complex, layered, and distinctly Scottish.
Firkin Gin Location
Map (c) Google Maps
Firkin Gin is produced in Edinburgh, Scotland, specifically at the Leith Stillroom. Leith, historically a bustling port area, has become a hub for craft spirits and breweries, making it a fitting home for Firkin Gin. The maritime heritage of Leith complements the brand’s adventurous spirit, while Edinburgh’s reputation as a centre for innovation in distilling provides the perfect backdrop.
Firkin Gin History
The Gleann Mòr Spirits Company, the parent of Firkin Gin, was founded with a passion for both whisky and gin. The team wondered what would happen if gin were influenced by whisky casks, and their experiments led to the creation of Firkin Gin. The first batches were aged in American oak casks, imparting notes of vanilla, caramel, and sweet oak. Encouraged by the success of these early trials, the company expanded into using ex-Lagavulin, port, and sherry casks.
Firkin Gin quickly gained recognition for its originality. Unlike traditional gins, which rely solely on botanicals, Firkin Gin’s character evolves during cask ageing. This process not only changes the flavour but also alters the colour, giving some expressions a golden hue. Over time, Firkin Gin has developed a wide range of releases, each with its own identity, while maintaining the brand’s core philosophy of innovation and quality.
Signature Releases
Firkin Gin offers a diverse portfolio of expressions, each showcasing the impact of different cask finishes and botanicals. Some of the most notable include:
- Firkin Gin: The classic London Dry-style gin, bottled straight from the still without cask ageing.
- Firkin Cask Aged Islay Finish Gin: Rested in Islay whisky barrels, this gin carries smoky notes reminiscent of peated Scotch.
- Firkin Cask Aged Port Finish Gin: Aged in port casks, offering rich, fruity undertones.
- Firkin Cask Aged Sherry Finish Gin: Matured in sherry casks, delivering nutty, sweet, and complex flavours.
- Firkin 1000 Day Cask Aged Finish Gin: A rare release aged for nearly three years, showcasing deep oak influence.
- Firkin Try Me Naked! Gin: A “naked” version with no cask ageing, highlighting the pure botanicals.
- Firkin Yuletide Old Tom Gin: A festive release with cinnamon, nutmeg, and holiday spices.
- Firkin Rosie Gin: A floral expression with rose notes.
- Firkin Blue Gin: A vibrant, colourful gin with a twist on the traditional recipe.
These releases demonstrate Firkin’s commitment to experimentation, with each cask finish adding a new dimension to the gin.
Touring Firkin Gin Distillery
Unlike some larger Scottish gin distilleries, Firkin Gin does not currently operate a visitor centre or offer public tours. The brand is focused on production and distribution rather than tourism. This means there is no dedicated shop, café or bar at the distillery site
However, Firkin Gin is widely available through online retailers such as Master of Malt and in specialist shops across Scotland and beyond. Enthusiasts can explore the range by purchasing bottles directly rather than visiting a physical distillery.
Contact Details
For inquiries, purchases, or collaborations, Firkin Gin can be reached at:
Address: Firkin Gin, 22 Jane Street, Edinburgh EH6 5HD, United Kingdom
Phone: Not publicly listed; contact via email recommended
Email: hello@gmspirits.com
Website: firkingin.co.uk
Final Thoughts
Firkin Gin is a fascinating example of Scotland’s ability to innovate within its distilling heritage. By marrying gin with whisky cask ageing, the brand has created a portfolio of spirits that stand out in a crowded market. While it does not currently offer tours or a visitor centre, Firkin Gin remains a must-try for gin (and whisky) enthusiasts seeking something different.
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