Ian Macleod Distillers Opens State-of-the-Art Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches

Edinburgh, Scotland (January 29, 2025): Edinburgh Gin, a multi-award-winning distiller, has begun a new chapter in gin-making in the heart of Scotland’s capital. The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches is now open, offering visitors an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience. Located just off the legendary Royal Mile on the historic site of Trinity Church, this state-of-the- art distillery blends centuries-old tradition with modern innovation, making it a must-visit destination for travelers, history enthusiasts, and gin lovers alike.

The distillery’s striking architecture, featuring exposed brickwork, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views, offers visitors a chance to explore Scotland’s cultural legacy. At its heart are three bespoke copper stills—Annie and Lina, 2,000L masterpieces named after the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s first female gardeners, and Matilda, a smaller still for experimental creations. These stills represent Edinburgh Gin’s commitment to craftsmanship, ensuring each bottle captures the city’s vibrant spirit. Whether sipping a custom cocktail or crafting your own bespoke gin, every experience at The Arches is a journey into the artistry of gin-making.

Edinburgh Gin’s varied and vibrant range of gins, from the Classic London Dry to its flavored Elderflower & Gooseberry Gin, is distinguished through its innovative use of local botanicals, commitment to natural ingredients, and a deep-rooted connection to Edinburgh’s history and environment. Resulting in a distinctive and authentic gin experience that pushes boundaries and breaks down conventions.

“We’ve crafted unforgettable programs for the new distillery, which are as expertly curated as our spirits, so we can’t wait for visitors to experience them,” said Edinburgh Gin’s Brand Home Manager, Melissa Rickerby, “These new experiences offer a deep dive into the intricate art and science of gin making, led by passionate experts who bring every detail of our process to life, offering a truly immersive journey through the world of gin.”

The Edinburgh Gin Distillery is open seven days a week, with experiences available to book online, including:

• The Classic Tour & Tasting: Step into the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and the home of Edinburgh Gin for The Classic Tour & Tasting. After a glimpse into Edinburgh’s role in the history of gin, you will explore the remarkable Flavor Arch to experience the aromas, textures and tastes that the unique botanicals contribute to our signature gins. Learn the secrets of distillation in our Stillhouse before enjoying a curated sampling of acclaimed expressions with carefully selected mixer and garnish pairings.
• Decadent Duo: Gin & Chocolate Pairing: Led by the distillery's expert Distillery Ambassadors, this sensory journey invites you to elevate your tasting adventure. Begin the experience with an immersive distillery tour, exploring the intricate process behind our renowned spirits. Enjoy a selection of our finest gins, expertly matched with hand-selected chocolates from the artisans at COCO Chocolatier, with every step infused withthe essence of craftsmanship and indulgence. The perfect choice for any gin-lover keen to experience their spirits in a considered new way.
• The Mix & Muddle Cocktail Class: Step into the world of gin and cocktails, where every moment is crafted to captivate and inspire. Guided by the distillery’s expert Distillery Ambassadors, guests will embark on a flavorful journey of gin's rich history through the timeless and enduring cocktails that showcase the versatility and charm of Edinburgh Gin. Guests will learn the skills of how to make classic drinks and uncover the fascinating tales behind the cocktails, from their storied origins to the secrets that have secured their place in the hearts of gin lovers around the world. See the evolution of gin’s role in cocktails unfold before your eyes, gaining insights that will deepen your appreciation for these spirited creations.
• Gin Making Experience: Journey to the heart of gin-making by crafting your own bespoke gin. Following an immersive distillery tour to explore the process behind Edinburgh Gin, you will unleash your inner distiller in The Arches Gin Lab. Here you will select some of the earth’s finest botanicals under the expert guidance of a Distillery Ambassador, fire up one of our small copper stills and indulge in a seasonal tutored tasting featuring gins from our award-winning range with delicious local produce – whilst our slowly simmering stills release the essential oils and flavors from your chosen botanicals. Commemorate the moment with a custom label before raising a tailored G&T in celebration of your creation. 

Start planning your visit today and discover the wonder-filled world of Edinburgh Gin. For more information or to book your experience, visit the Edinburgh Gin website.

PRESS CONTACT: CURICH|WEISS

Cayla DiFabio | IanMacleodDistillers@curichweiss. com

About Edinburgh Gin

Launched in 2010, Edinburgh Gin is crafted at our carbon-neutral distillery in the heart of Scotland’s capital by our master gin makers, drawing inspiration from the vibrant and storied city of Edinburgh. This exceptional gin is a vibrant and varied range full of taste and filled with wonder —where history meets modernity, local pride meets global vision, and natural landscapes blend seamlessly with urban life. As pioneers of gin liqueurs, we offer one of the most awarded gin ranges, spanning from our classic, smooth London Dry to the tangy Rhubarb & Ginger. Edinburgh Gin will be making its United States debut in Spring 2025.

Edinburgh Gin is owned by Ian Macleod Distillers, one of Scotland’s most respected independent, family-owned spirits companies, with four generations of expertise in distilling, blending, and bottling.

About Ian Macleod Distillers

Established in 1933, Ian Macleod Distillers is one of Scotland’s leading independent, family-owned distillers, blenders, and bottlers. With four generations of expertise, the company has built a portfolio of premium spirits, including renowned Scotch whiskies like Glengoyne, Tamdhu, Rosebank, and Smokehead, along with the acclaimed Edinburgh Gin. Ian Macleod Distillers ranks among the top ten Scotch whisky producers globally and is noted for its unwavering commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation. The company’s legacy as one of Scotland’s most respected independent family-owned spirits producers is rooted in its independence, which allows it the freedom to make decisions aligned with its values. This philosophy entails honoring the unhurried practices of the past while also embracing bold, new flavor explorations.