Isle of Skye Distillers was founded in 2016 by brothers Alistair and Thomas Wilson. It is a truly independent, family-owned distillery and the first producer of gin on the island. As well as producing the award-winning Misty Isle Gin, the distillery also makes Tommy’s Gin, which was released in memory of the distiller’s father and Thomas’ namesake. Tommy served in the Suez invasion and passed away in late August 2016. ‘Thomas also served in the army and a donation from each bottle sold goes to a military charity. Tommy’s is made from poppy seeds and, as far as we know, it’s the only gin to use this botanical. Provenance is key to making Tommy’s Gin, with the juniper berries being hand-foraged on the Isle of Skye. The inspiration for the imagery and artwork comes from the Commando memorial, near Spean Bridge which they pass every week as they deliver gin to the mainland.
Isle of Skye distillers recommends you serve Tommy’s gin with lots of ice, a premium tonic, a twist of lemon and a handful of blueberries.
The taste reveals the sweetness of Poppy with a small hint of liquorice, the tartness of Blaeberries through the middle with a hint of sweet orange to leave a balanced citrus after taste.
This is a crisp, refreshing gin with an initial sweetness and zing that comes from the orange citrus. It is perfectly balanced with the juniper and the subtle sweetness of the poppy seed. Hugely enjoyable and all the more delightful when you know it is supporting a great cause.