This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
News
Beefeater master distiller honoured with award
Beefeater 24 creator Desmond Payne received a Lifetime Achievement Award at The Gin Guild’s Annual Autumn Installation for his “outstanding work and success”.
Left to right: Martin Riley, Desmond Payne and Nicholas Cook
Payne is only the third person to be bestowed with the award, which was presented to him by master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, Allan Cheesman, and The Gin Guild’s new grand rectifier, Martin Riley.
Payne began his career in gin in 1967 with Seager Evans & Co, the Wine Merchants and Gin Distillers.
He progressed through the industry to become master distiller at Beefeater in 2005 and created Beefeater 24 in 2008.
No fewer than 21 industry experts were inducted as new members of The Gin Guild, including distillers, producers, suppliers and brand owners hailing from the UK, Canada, Spain, Mexico, Germany, Holland, Liechtenstein, Norway and the first warden member from the US.
“As always, it’s incredibly positive to see so many new members welcomed into The Gin Guild, especially as we’re seeing a real variety in those that are expressing a fascination with gin and wanting to be part of this exciting movement, both UK and internationally,” said Nicholas Cook, director general of The Gin Guild.
Martin Riley was also welcomed as The Gin Guild’s new grand rectifier and will hold the post for the next two years.
Riley has been involved in the spirits industry for his entire career, most notably working as chief marketing officer for Pernod Ricard Group from 2009.
“I am extremely proud to have been selected as grand rectifier at this year’s installation,” commented Martin Riley, the new grand rectifier of The Gin Guild. “After spending a considerable time working on gin brands throughout my career, I look forward to making my contribution and helping to build on the momentum of The Gin Guild.
“These are great days for gin. The members of The Gin Guild are helping to create excitement for the category through their expertise, energy and enthusiasm, in the UK and throughout the world.”