Gin-credible distillery continues to put York on on the map

York’s reputation as a leading gin maker has been bolstered after the city’s eponymous gin company won two Best in England titles at the prestigious World Gin Awards 2021.

York Gin Old Tom – a collaboration with the Michelin-starred Star Inn, Harome, – won the Best English Old Tom title for the second year in a row.

And York Gin Outlaw – inspired by the city’s outlaws, Guy Fawkes, Dick Turpin and ‘Yorkshire Witch’ Mary Bateman – triumphed as Best English Navy Strength.

These two awards show that York Gin is making a serious impression on the international stage crafting world-leading gins – just three years after launching in 2018.

York Gin’s master distiller Harry Cooke said: “It’s a fantastic day for York. When York Gin started out we said we wanted to make wonderful spirits that would make our beautiful city proud – and put York on the world map as a spirits producer.

“Today is a further step in that direction, following the international gold medals our gins have already won.”

Cooked added that with the city already renowned for its “brilliant restaurants, pubs and bars” and following a year that has seen the hospitality industry hit hard it was fantastic for “our city can claim to be a leading producer of world beating gins too”.

Andrew Pern, chef patron of the Star Inn, Harome, who also co-owns York’s Star Inn The City, said: “For the Old Tom to win last year was fantastic. But to win Best English Old Tom Gin for a second time proves we’re all doing something right. Let’s hope it encourages lots of people to come and enjoy all that York and North Yorkshire have to offer – once the restrictions are lifted.”