SipWell Brands strikes travel retail distribution deal with Isle of Harris Distillery

UK distribution drinks agency SipWell Brands has secured an exclusive distribution agreement with Isle of Harris Distillery, making its Scotch whisky products available in global travel retail with immediate effect.

Since it was established in 2015, Isle of Harris Distillery has provided sustainable jobs and economic support to an island of fewer than 2,000 residents.

It is known for its gin and single malt whisky, The Hearach, and employs over 50 islanders.

The collaboration with SipWell Brands is part of the distillery’s strategic expansion.

A specialist in global premium drinks, SipWell already represents a wide range of high-end beverages from Hine Cognac, Lind & Lime Gin and The Lost Explorer mezcal and tequilas to Nc’nean, Stauning, Fable, Two Stacks and Kilchoman whiskies.

Named after the Gaelic word for a native of Harris, The Hearach single malt Scotch whisky is distilled, matured, married and bottled on the island by local craftsmen.

Matured in first-fill bourbon, oloroso and fino sherry casks, this lightly peated, non-chill filtered whisky offers fruit and floral notes with a long, smoky finish. The Outer Hebridean distillery also recently secured Newcomer of the Year and Product Launch of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards for its inaugural single malt.

Isle of Harris Gin is distilled with hand-harvested sugar kelp seaweed from local sea lochs, combined with eight botanicals, imparting a smooth, dry character with coastal notes. Its distinctive bottle design is inspired by the island’s natural surroundings.

Isle of Harris Distillery Managing Director Simon Erlanger said: “Every bottle of Isle of Harris Gin or The Hearach that we produce reflects the character and spirit of our wonderful island, our people and our heritage and so it’s important for us to work with people who understand our mission.

“The team at SipWell have shown a true understanding of our values and how we operate and how that translates to travel retail. We are confident they will represent us with a shared voice and ethos as we take Isle of Harris Distillery to the global travel retail market.”

SipWell Brands Co-Owner Andrew Torrance added: “What the team at Isle of Harris has achieved in just under a decade is nothing short of remarkable.

“Their products are deservedly now attracting accolades from all over the world and so now is the perfect time for us to take them to discerning customers through the travel retail sector, where we know they will also be a major hit.”