Spirit specialists will distil their expertise in city

Conference: University brings drinks event north of border for first time

“Gin-dustry” experts from across the globe are to meet in Dundee next week to discuss the drink’s booming fortunes.

Abertay University will host the cream of the distilling world for a three-day exploration of the continuing rise of Scotland’s craft gin market and other spirit success stories.

The Lallemand’s Alcohol School Distilled Spirits Conference is being held north of the border for the first time.

Delegates from countries as far-flung as Barbados, Sweden, Canada, Italy, Bulgaria, France, Serbia and Latvia will share ideas on best practice, as well as discussing issues and trends across the sector

Professor Graeme Walker, of Abertay’s division of food and drink, said the arrival of such a high-profile conference in Scotland was a strong measure of the strength of the country’s distilled spirits industry.

He said: “Scotland has understandably always been the key international player when it comes to whisky. However, it is pleasing to see that reputation now extending out to other products such as gin and vodka.

“Our food innovation at Abertay project works closely with a wide range of new and established businesses to help create, refine and market a host of products, so it is fantastic for us to be able to host such a prestigious gathering.”

Attendees will hear from Abertay PHD student and entrepreneur Kirsty Black, whose Arbikie distillery in Angus has won multiple awards for its varied products.

Workshops will also discuss the science of raw distilling materials, led by Douglas Murray of drinks firm Diageo, mash preparation for whisky with Steve Wright of Spiritech and craft distilling with Annie Hill of Heriot-watt University.

A recent report showed 70% of the UK’S gin was now distilled north of the border, while the number of distilleries in the UK rose to 131 in the last year.

In Scotland 35 craft distilleries have opened in the last three years, offering more than 100 variations of “mother’s ruin”.

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It is pleasing to see Scotland’s reputation now extending out to other products such as gin and vodka

Professor Graeme Walker of Abertay University is looking forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to Dundee.