Spirit Master: Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin
Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin, co-founded by classical singer Katherine Jenkins OBE and artist and filmmaker Andrew Levitas, has made headlines since its launch in 2023.
The most recent industry accolades for Cygnet Gin were achieved at the Gin Masters 2024 - First Tasting, part of The Global Spirits Masters Competitions, where both Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin and its Cygnet 22 variant received Gold awards. Cygnet Gin was born from the desire to break the mould in a traditionally male-dominated industry and channel Jenkins and Levitas’ passion for sustainability. Jenkins founded Cygnet Gin to create a sophisticated luxury gin that, owing to its ingredients, distillation process, and superior quality, could be enjoyed neat on the rocks or with a light tonic. The brand's citrus-driven flagship expression is made with 12 botanicals, including almond, cardamom, lime peel, liquorice, orange peel, chamomile flower, lemon peel and pink grapefruit. The GSMC judges praised it for its “excitingly refreshing citrus oil” and “nice aromatic flavour journey”. Cygnet 22, on the other hand, is made with 10 additional botanicals, including bee pollen, Manuka honey, hibiscus, lemon balm and rose petals, and is described as a sipping gin. The judges described it as “big and powerful on the palate”. In addition to the brand’s award-winning taste, Cygnet Gin has been recognised for its sophistication and sustainable ethos. The brand’s elegantly designed bottles are intended to encourage repurposing and reduce waste. For a ‘Summer of Cygnet’, the brand has partnered with Peppermint and Compass Levy, securing presence at venues including Principality Stadium Cardiff, Chelsea Football Stadium, Depot Live, Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and Camp Kerala. The premium gin brand is available at some of London’s most recognisable bars and restaurants, including Sexy Fish, Apollo’s Muse, Scott’s Mayfair, and The Ivy Collection. Earlier this month, Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin reached the shelves of more than 200 Marks & Spencer stores in the UK. The flagship product is offered at 40% ABV and has an RRP of £36 (US$46). Cygnet 22 has a 44% ABV and retails for £48.50 (US$62). The sipping gin is available at Waitrose, John Lewis and Harvey Nichols.
