Leaving behind a 20-year career as a chiropractor to turn her passion for gin into a full-time business was something of a risk for Ros Nelmes.

But the gamble certainly paid off when Dorchester-based Fordington Gin scooped a silver medal at the 2020 World Gin Awards. The company faced stiff competition from more than 600 other gins, to go home with the coveted prize in the Compound Gin taste category, which recognises gins that achieve their principal flavours by infusion.

"To receive this accolade is a tremendous honour, especially given the quality of the other gins that we were competing against," says Ros.

"As a small distillery receiving recognition like this provides a big boost to everyone in my team, who work hard to spread the word about Fordington Gin. It was lovely to receive glowing feedback from the judges, who commented on the distinct flavours and ingredients I use.”

The prestigious awards ceremony took place at Glaziers Hall in London and invited entrants from around the globe. Prizes were awarded to the top three gins from each country, for a number of internationally recognised gin styles.

Despite growing success, Fordington Gin is still produced in small batches in Ros’s Dorchester home. Great care and attention are paid to ensure each artisan bottle is produce to a high quality.

Looking forward, 2020 is set to be an exciting year for this Dorset business, with lots of exciting plans in the pipeline.

“We have some exciting plans for the future, including the launch of Doris, our very own Fordington Gin branded classic car, which we plan to take to the events and festivals that we are attending this summer," says Ros.

"We’re looking forward to meeting more of our customers and introducing even more people to Fordington Gin.”

Since its inception in 2014, Fordington Gin has gone from strength to strength and is now stocked in more than 70 independent retailers across the county, including many bars and restaurants. The classic gin, alongside limited-edition distillations, has earned a fantastic reputation, becoming the drink of choice for many gin enthusiasts.

 

Fordington Gin, Walks Road, Dorchester

07896 066982

fordingtongin.co.uk