awards

September 22, 2021

Posted in All, awards

Lumber Distillers 137 Gin range has been recognised with a 3-star and 2-star award for their Berkshire Dry and London Dry gin by Great Taste, the largest and most trusted food and drink awards on the planet. Out of 5,383 products worldwide to receive a Great Taste 1-, 2- or 3-star accolade on Tuesday 21 September, the 137 gins will now be able to display the unmistakable black and gold logo, a stamp of excellence that is recognised by retailers and consumers alike.

The annual awards scheme, administered by the Guild of Fine Food in the UK and judged blind by a panel of 355 judges, attracts more than 14,000 entries and less than 2 per cent of those were awarded the top, three-star rating. Only a handful of gin distillers were recognized with a 3-star across the UK, placing Lumber Distillers at the top of the league table.

This is the third year in a row that Lumber Distillers have been recognised by Great Taste.

Commenting on the 3-star Berkshire Dry, the judges said:

“We loved the intense aroma of this gin, which had a fresh zestiness as well as slightly violet-like floral hints. Taste-wise we loved the zing of the ginger notes, with dark chocolate and biscuit essences but with a buzzy prickliness of pepper spice and a sweet citrus note. The layers of complexity and lingering finish were really impressive. With the tonic, the taste is much sweeter, with more emphasis on a ginger-chocolate-orange flavour. We prefer it as a sipping gin as we find it very clever. Very drinkable”.

“We found a very attractive floral nose and would perhaps have liked more juniper. The palate is very smooth and the alcohol is well integrated with flavours of coriander and violet. We thought it needed more gin character despite being an excellent spirit”.

“The palate instantly captures the aromatic essence of grain of paradise, undercut by citrus. This divided opinion somewhat, with some unsure about the flavour profile, others (lovers of grain of paradise) finding it admirable in its capture of the spice. Again, some felt the ABV to be a touch high, contributing to slight lack of balance, harmony and subtlety – integration, in essence. It does work beautifully with tonic, however. The finish bears some of those woody notes”.

“A really alluring ginger biscuit nose – gentle, warming, and long, nutmeg and cinnamon on the finish. Complex, intriguing and made with love and panache”.

The London Dry was awarded a 2-star. Feedback included:

“Subtle on the nose with light citrus. Juniper, lavender, summer floral with appealing black pepper spice. It reminded us of a mid summer gathering; it would be perfect with crayfish as an alternative to vodka. A real delight”. And: “A very elegant gin, with delicate citrus notes. It is beautifully balanced and juniper forward. A gin of the highest quality”.

“Great nose – bold but subtle citrus and spice. High quality. Great example of a gin”.

“A very elegant gin, with delicate citrus notes. It is beautifully balanced and juniper forward. A gin of the highest quality”.

Pete Lumber, Master Distiller for Lumber Distillers, explains: “This award means a great deal to us and is a reflection of our hard work, passion and commitment. We love what we do, it’s a dream come true so to achieve three stars is a great honour. As an independent craft distiller, this accolade helps the 137 range stand out in the market”.

What does the star-rating mean?
★ = Simply delicious.  ★★ = Outstanding. ★★★ = Exquisite