What did you do before launching Biggins Gin? For almost forty years I have sailed the seas, working on private and commercial yachts. I'm still working on board, but I'm preparing to move ashore. What made you decide to begin producing gin? While working and sailing in the West Indies, I had many opportunities to visit traditional rum distilleries. I found myself captivated by the history of rum and the distillation process. I built my first still using a stainless-steel milk can as the boiler, and the column and condenser were made from copper pipe fittings. It worked, and my love for distillation was born. I have a Certificate in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling. What is the meaning and story behind the Biggins Gin brand name? Biggins is my alter ego, the guy who left the family farm and has had a lifetime of adventures. Biggins is my freewheeling self that I keep in check while being responsible for the safety of the vessel and the crew.
Can you tell us more about your distillery and your still? We are a start-up craft distiller located in Tuscany. We have a beautifully made 208L Muller Aromat still. The Aromat column does not use bubble plates; instead, it features a long spiral for further rectification. The result is a deep and rich flavour profile. Can you tell us more about your distillation process? Every step in the process is important. As we are in Tuscany, we can source juniper and other botanicals from the local area. I prefer not to rush the process and start with an extended maceration period. Our still also has a gin basket for the delicate botanicals. When it is time to run the still, we heat the boiler slowly until the production temperature is reached. We make careful cuts on the heads and tails, and a gin is born. The product is moved to a storage tank for later bottling. Biggin’s Mediterranean Dry Gin incorporates botanicals commonly found in Amaro. Biggin's Yuletide Spirits is on the warm and spicy side, great for frosty weather. Baci Rubati Pink Gin is the most unique gin - the list of botanicals is long, including cacao nibs and vanilla beans. What can visitors experience if they visit your distillery? We offer a gin distillation workshop for small groups. Small groups of guests can operate a 3L pot still and run a distillation cycle.
What are your favourite ways to drink your gins?
Desert Island Gins: Which 3 gins would you take with you and why?
What's next for you and Biggins Gin - any exciting plans? I am exploring the production of low-alcohol versions of Biggins Gin and Baci Rubati. We are currently trying to attract private label customers too, and an Amaro is also in the works. You Might Also Like...
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