Gin Bothy eyes overseas growth

An Angus drinks firm is eyeing opportunities abroad as demand for its infused gins increases.

Kim Cameron, who set up the Gin Bothy three years ago, said: “I suppose you could call me an accidental gin maker.”

After spells in food, fashion and the third sector, she took over management of Peel Farm at Lintrathen, Kirriemuir.

It was there she established the Jam Bothy.

After entering the World Jampionships in Perthshire, Kim’s mum suggested adding the byproduct of her mass jammaking – an excess of fruit juice – to gin.

The resulting drink, made with the help of a 17th Century recipe, outsold Kim’s jam and the Gin Bothy was born.

Initially the sole employee, Kim now has two staff and the company produces and sells 1,000 bottles a month.

The venture is UK focused, but Kim said interesting opportunities were opening up in the US and Europe.

“I’m keen to spend some time in the States in 2017, to further develop new opportunities,” she said.

“We have taken orders for Texas, Florida and Colorado, so there is definitely an appetite for what we do over there.”

A regular exhibitor at food events, the firm took out a concession at the Senior Open golf at Carnoustie.

Gin Bothy Gunshot and Mulled Gin have been awarded a Great Taste award by the Guild of Fine Food.

The Gin Bothy’s Kim Cameron made a splash with players and fans alike at the Senior Open.