As most will know by now, we hate the spotlight. Instead we prefer to work away quietly, here in rural Callander, creating true craft spirit with world-first flavour profiles. Just minding our own business. So, you can imagine how disappointing it is to be informed we’ve been nominated for yet another award!

Why is it always us?
This time it’s the Scottish Rural Awards that have come knocking. The irony is that if we hadn’t chosen to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city life, this unwanted attention would have just passed us by. Damned if you do, damned if you don’t.

But why does everybody love our gin so much? There are loads of others out there. What makes ours so good? Yes, we use all-natural ingredients, hand-charge our still, and carefully distil innnovative flavours into each small batch. But is that really so special? Guess so…

Proud rural roots
Ok, ok, you got us! We’re totally thrilled to be nominated for another award. And while we hail from quiet Callander, we could not be prouder or happier to help shine the spotlight on our rural home.

This year we have been shortlisted for the ‘Rural Enterprise & Innovation Award’. With our innovative gin range, including four world-first flavours, we felt like this category was right up our street (or single track road), and we are delighted that others think so too.

The Scottish Rural Awards
Now in their 4th year, The Scottish Rural Awards are widely recognised as the ultimate benchmark of excellence in Scotland’s countryside – a celebration of the enterprise, innovation, dedication and community spirit of those who live in rural Scotland. Something everyone at McQueen is immeasurably proud to be a part of.

All that is left to do now is cross our fingers, while quietly cursing the fact we’ll need to build another shelf if we win.

Sláinte