It’s good news for gin and whiskey drinkers and Downton Abbey fans alike this week as Harrogate Tipple signs off an agreement with Boutique Bar Brands to act as its exclusive distributor for the UK.
Under the new deal, the North Yorkshire company’s range of spirits – including its licensed Downton Abbey gin and whiskey collection – will be able to extend its reach in on-trade, off-trade, and online as well as in premium outlets, as a part of Boutique Bar Brands’ portfolio of drinks.
Until now, the range had been available within Booths, Fenwicks, and in a number of independent outlets. BBB works with over 45 wholesalers across the UK, and currently represents three distilleries – The London Distillery Company, Greensand Ridge, and Gleann Morr.
Established four years ago by Steven and Sally Green, supported by internationally renowned distiller Tom Nichol, Harrogate Tipple has already established a loyal following. Housed in a converted barn close to the Ripley Castle Estate near Harrogate, it has an ethos of local provenance with many of its botanicals grown in the estate’s kitchen gardens and Victorian hothouse as well as using the spa town’s famous spring water.
Co-founder of Harrogate Tipple, Steven Green, said: “This partnership is our first distribution deal and marks another important step in our development. BBB has a fantastic reputation in the industry; it only represents the very best brands that have a story to tell.
“We will be able to benefit from this leading drinks agency’s extensive knowledge and contacts, particularly in on-trade premium outlets, enabling us to extend our reach.”
Philip Harding, co-founder of BBB, added: “BBB has more recently been moving into providing a distribution service to drinks brands which have already built a certain level of business within the UK, as opposed to our traditional agency retainer model. When Harrogate Tipple approached us, they impressed the team with their growth over the past few years and their ambition to push onto the next level.
“We believe that the match of Harrogate Tipple’s unique offering, supported by BBB’s network, sales team and reach, will be a great combination, enabling it to become a nationally recognised brand. The Downton Abbey range of spirits is also a very interesting addition to our portfolio, and we are excited to see how far we can take this.”
Harrogate Tipple’s current range includes Premium Harrogate Gin, Gooseberry Harrogate Gin and Blueberry Harrogate Gin; Premium Harrogate Rum; Downton Abbey Premium Gin and Downton Abbey Finest Blended Whisky.
