Tougher gin legislation is now a ‘necessity’

Stricter legislation regarding the definition of gin is now a “necessity” in order to differentiate between the juniper-led spirit and flavoured spirits, Hayman Distillers’ managing director has claimed.

Stricter regulations regarding gin are now a “necessity”, says Hayman’s Gin MD

Speaking to The Spirits Business, James Hayman said he thought it was “a shame” that some producers were moving away from traditional-style gins and “verging on flavoured spirits”.

“I feel uncomfortable with a product called gin that isn’t juniper-led,” said Hayman. “It’s a shame that people are moving away from traditional gins and verging on flavoured spirits.

“It’s very confusing for consumers; there’s no subheading reason why it’s different. It’s a shame and quite damaging for the category.

“I think legislation has become a necessity right now.”

EU and US legislation currently defines gin, distilled gin and London Dry gin as being “predominantly juniper tasting”.

London Dry gin can be produced anywhere in the world, but Hayman continued to express his favour for legally defining English gin from other styles.

“I do wish we could categorise English gin, he added. “I would be a great supporter of that.”

Hindering creativity

However, while other producers agree that the industry needs to be careful to ensure consumers are not confused about what constitutes a gin and a flavoured spirit, some are cautious about whether implementing stricter regulations could hinder creativity

“I don’t think we want to be stricter because otherwise it hinders creativity,” said Lizzy Johnson, marketing director for Quintessential Brands whose portfolio includes Greenall’s Gin, Bloom Gin and Berkeley Square Gin. “Consumer flavours and taste profiles are always changing so you can never look into the future and see what they are going to want to drink.”

Johnson went on to explain how it is the collective responsibility of the industry to help educate and guide consumers wherever possible, to ensure they know exactly what they are drinking.

“I wouldn’t want it to be stricter, but clearer,” she added. “That’s very important.”