Broch project and distillery brew up new gin

Dunnet Bay Distillery has teamed up with the Caithness Broch Project to

create a new limited-edition gin.

Broch Rose Gin was launched at the Rock Rose distillery on June 20 with

all profits going to the project.

Based in Thurso, the broch project aims to build a replica of an Iron Age

broch which, it is hoped, will become a major tourist site.

It also works to preserve existing archaeological sites and to create an archaeological trail for tourists and locals to explore Caithness’s past.

Kenneth McElroy, a director of the broch project, says he is delighted with

the new partnership – although he admits he had an old pal to call on to make

it happen.

“I’ve known Martin Murray, who owns the distillery with his wife Claire, for years. So when I had the idea of raising the project’s profile, I got in touch with him," he said.

“He was very supportive of the idea and was keen to get involved. He is also

supportive of the Caithness Broch Project as a whole so he was delighted to get involved.

“His involvement is a huge plus as all profits from the new gin will go straight back to the Caithness Broch Project – an incredible gesture from him.

“We’re always looking for ways to make archaeology more interesting and more accessible to the public. We’ve done so by way of social media and art. So food and drink seemed to be the next step.

“I have to admit I’m not a big gin drinker myself but Martin and I looked to how gin was made in the past. Johnny Horn of Edinburgh University advised us that a number of ingredients such as meadowsweet and heather were found in old drinks and we’ve tried to recreate the past here.”

Mr Murray elaborated more on what connoisseurs can expect from the new drink.

“We’ve created a unique gin made from botanics used by Caithness’ Iron Age ancestors. There will be hints of heather as well as pine buds which really come to the fore. It’s a very cooling drink which leaves a clean finish.

“We’re delighted to support the Caithness Broch Project. The team that run

it are a very passionate bunch and are good ambassadors for the region.

“We are also delighted that all profits after alcohol tax and VAT will go

straight to them. The funds will help the Caithness Broch Project with the fine

work that they do.”