A Norwich-based gin company has been named the best in the nation at a prestigious industry awards ceremony.

Gyre & Gimble won the UK Gin Producer Trophy at The IWSC (International Wine and Spirits Competition) 2023 at the Roundhouse in London on Thursday, October 19. 

Craig Allison and Rory Smith opened the Gyre & Gimble gin distillery and cocktail bar in Norwich's Charing Cross in November 2019.

Norwich Evening News: Cherry, Coastal and London Dry Gin from Gyre and Gimble Picture: Sonya DuncanCherry, Coastal and London Dry Gin from Gyre and Gimble Picture: Sonya Duncan (Image: Newsquest)

This was recently named the best bar in Norfolk at the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2023. 

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The three main gins available to buy are Coastal, with notes of samphire and lavender, Cherry and the Double Juniper London Dry.

The business grew in June 2022 when they launched a gin academy and bottle shop in the Royal Arcade.

In August this year, the pair took on The Walpole Arms pub in Itteringham, near Aylsham. 

Mr Allison said: "The IWSC is the world's largest and most influential spirits competition.

Norwich Evening News: Owners of Gyre and Gimble Craig Allison and Rory Smith at the opening of their gin academy in the Royal ArcadeOwners of Gyre and Gimble Craig Allison and Rory Smith at the opening of their gin academy in the Royal Arcade (Image: Archant)

"To be awarded the overall UK Gin Producer of the Year is a huge feat and a real testament to the whole team."

Christelle Guibert, CEO of the IWSC, said: "The IWSC is delighted to see Gyre & Gimble take home our UK Gin Producer Trophy, following a unanimous vote by our expert judges. 

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"The IWSC judges were greatly impressed by the brand’s award-winning gins.

Norwich Evening News: L-R Kellie Sheridan, general manager, Sam Rush, head chef, and Craig Allison, co-owner of Walpole Arms and Gyre and Gimble Picture: Sonya DuncanL-R Kellie Sheridan, general manager, Sam Rush, head chef, and Craig Allison, co-owner of Walpole Arms and Gyre and Gimble Picture: Sonya Duncan (Image: Newsquest)

"They challenge the traditional flavours of gin, showcasing the brand’s thirst for innovation.

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"Gyre & Gimble’s commitment to sustainability is also commendable, they are a great example for others across the gin industry.”

Over the next year, Mr Allison and Mr Smith are looking to relocate the gin distillery from Norwich to a converted outbuilding at the site of their new pub in Itteringham to meet demand. 

Visit gyreandgimble.co.uk to see the full range and the gin experiences available.