Popular gin-maker moves into new premises in Grantown
The go-ahead has been given to the Cairngorm Gin Company for a premises licence for their new base on an industrial estate in Grantown.
Members of the Highland Licensing Board meeting in Inverness approved the application by company boss Jack Smith for the unit on the town's Achnagonalin Industrial Estate.
The premises consist of a production, storage and distribution area with a small shop. The company had previously been based in Carrbridge.
Mr Smith has been given approval for off-sale hours from Monday to Sunday between 10am and 10pm.
Marjory Bain, Highland licensing administrator, stated: "Cairngorm Gin is an established Speyside drinks producer, producing small batch craft gin.
"Formerly, it operated from the dwelling house of the business owner, Jack Smith, in Carrbridge.
"The business is now moving to a retail unit in an industrial estate on the outskirts of Grantown...
"The model of operation is that gin is distilled on the premises, stored and distributed to customers. There is a small shop to the front of the unit, selling off sales as well as hosting on occasion small customer groups for tutored tastings.
"It is the opinion of the LSO (licencing standards officer) that should this application be granted as there will be no adverse impact on the local community."
Board member Duncan Macpherson had sought clarification on the scale of alcohol sales during the meeting.
He said: "Is this samples, miniatures and bottles to take away. Is this the primary use – it is not going to be like a corner shop?"
Officers confirmed it would not be stocked shelves 'like a Spar' but would be the company's own artisan gins and perhaps other Spey valley produce.
No objections or representations were made in connection with the application.
As part of the licensing conditions, alcohol may be sold prior to 11am for consumption on the premises only as part of a formal or tutored tasting session and only to customers taking part.