Highclere Castle Gin raises stakes in US
This year, Highclere Castle Gin is expanding its distribution in the US and preparing to launch a new expression.
Highclere Castle Gin is made with botanicals from the Highclere Castle estate, also known as the set of the TV show Downton Abbey.
This year, the brand is continuing its expansion throughout the US and beyond, marking a ‘significant’ milestone for its growth and market presence.
Since spring 2025, Highclere Castle Gin has expanded into 28 US states.
As part of the growth plan, the gin has made advancements with new placements, expanded retail partnerships, and strategic personnel hires, all of which aim to reinforce its commitment to quality, visibility, and demand in key markets.
Highclere Castle Gin is also launching a new expression, Peach Rose.
The new gin is distilled using essential oils from the Lady Carnarvon rose, which blooms in the castle’s gardens, and is infused with peaches grown on the estate.
Peach Rose is said to honour Highclere’s rich horticultural heritage while providing a modern twist for today’s luxury cocktail enthusiasts.
The new expression will be available in select US markets later this year.
Expansion
On 6 May at Wine & Spirits Guild of America’s annual conference in Long Island, New York, the founder and CEO of Highclere Castle Gin, Adam von Gootkin, delivered the keynote address, speaking to more than 40 retailers currently representing the brand in 200 stores across the country.
Von Gootkin shared insights into the brand’s DNA, transatlantic appeal, and the innovative market strategies that continue to distinguish Highclere Castle Gin in the luxury spirits category.
Highclere Castle Gin announced strategic partnerships in two new states: Missouri with Brown Derby and Randall’s, and Minnesota with Haskell’s, an 11-store chain.
The brand also expanded its distribution in Texas beyond Specs, with new Goody Goody and Twin Liquors listings.
Additionally, Highclere has invested in new listings in Florida, now available in more than 80 ABC Fine Wine & Spirits locations and 11 Total Wine & More stores.
The brand also relaunched in California through 21 Total Wine & More locations.
Highclere Castle Gin is set to launch with the LCBO in Ontario, Canada, this autumn.
Furthermore, the brand will enter the Latin American market with its debut in Nicaragua later this year, expanding its global presence to 11 markets.
Beyond its brick-and-mortar growth, Highclere Castle Gin maintains a strategic partnership with Viking Cruises, where it is the featured gin on 85 luxury vessels.
New hires to drive growth
Highclere Castle Gin has also expanded its national team with experienced industry professionals to support growth.
In Florida, Lisa McGill, a former Connecticut Distributors employee, is said to bring deep industry and product knowledge and a track record of brand-building success.
The brand has also welcomed Chris Gheen and Kelly Morgan from Constellation Brands to the team. Gheen will present Highclere Castle Gin in California, and Morgan is tasked to look after the US national accounts.
The company projects that it will sell 22,000 cases by the end of 2025, representing a 17% increase globally compared with 2024.
E-commerce delivery will be available throughout the US, the UK, and the EU, which is expected to boost consumer demand and enhance the brand’s standing in the premium spirits category.
Additionally, the upcoming release of the third and final Downton Abbey film in September 2025 is anticipated to further increase consumer interest and sales with the gin’s ties to Highclere Castle, the movie’s filming location.
Currently, the company is valued at US$40 million, with a Series B capital raise nearing completion.
“Our focus has always been on authenticity, quality, and experience,” said Von Gootkin. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the resonance of our story and spirit across the US and internationally. We’re just getting started.”
Earlier this year, the brand partnered with artist Hunt Slonem to create a limited edition bottling, auctioned in support of St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.
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