Commending excellence across the world of gin

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Gin Magazine Awards 2022, encompassing the Icons of Gin, the World Gin Awards, and the Gin Magazine Hall of Fame.

When we presented our 2021 awards one year ago, it is unlikely that any of us would have imagined we would still be battling our way through the global Covid-19 pandemic. And yet, here we are, having endured another year of uncertainty, instability, and, in some heartbreaking cases, significant loss.

Despite its trials, this past year has also been one of strength, innovation, grit and determination. The gin industry should give itself a collective round of applause for the way it has tackled the many challenges.

As was the case in 2020, the innovation displayed in the past year by both gin makers and those who serve and promote the spirit has been admirable. From the improvement and expansion of virtual visitor experiences to the growing number of ‘ready-to-drink’ options from distilleries, and bars sharing at-home cocktail-making kits and videos, the gin world is finding ever more inventive ways to connect with gin drinkers. This progression and evolution makes it an exciting time to be both a producer and a consumer of gin.

Through our Gin Magazine Awards, we aim to celebrate the cream of the crop across products, people and places.

Our Icons of Gin recognise the very best people and places in the gin industry, from distillers to brand ambassadors and communicators, and from bars to retailers. Without this network of dedicated people and businesses, the brilliant gins being turned out by producers the world over would not be able to reach the audience they deserve.

The World Gin Awards commend innovation and excellence on the part of gin producers, and celebrate the best products around the world in different style categories. Finally, the Hall of Fame recognises those who have made remarkable contributions to the world of gin – this year, four individuals will be welcomed into our hallowed halls.

I would encourage you to join me in raising a glass to this year’s entrants and winners as you peruse our awards content, which starts on page 80.

Inductee No. 10