Three Taste of Orkney producers have been celebrating some national recognition recently.
The Orkney Brewery has received a Golden Award from Campaign for Real Ale members (CAMRA), highlighting its dedication to excellence and the brewery's impact on the industry in the UK.
CAMRA members were asked to nominate brewers who were still producing great beer for drinkers, with winners chosen for their longevity and innovation. The Orkney Brewery was the only brewery in Scotland to receive the accolade, and one of just 18 across the UK.
Orkney Brewery’s Managing Director, Norman Sinclair, said: “To be named as the only Scottish brewery, alongside some iconic and big brewers, is quite some recognition. I believe this upholds our reputation for brewing beers of great quality and flavour. For me and our team it is just brilliant news, and we hope also for our customers and consumers as we start to enjoy some more of life’s freedoms after a difficult period."
Production has begun to pick up again at the brewery, with pubs in Scotland re-opening during the summer. Cask brewing began once more in spring and ongoing demand has seen the range grow to eight beers, including Raven, the first beer the brewery launched, the iconic Dark Island and new additions Island Life and Cliff Edge IPA.
Meanwhile, two local gin producers are celebrating being named as finalists in the Great British Food Awards 2021. The Deerness Distillery has made it onto the shortlist for the Flavoured Gin section with its Vara Pink Gin. It's joined in the same section by the Orkney Gin Company's Rhubarb Old Tom, which also has a nomination in the Any Other Spirits category with its Orkney Akvavit.
The shortlist is put together after months of rigorous testing by experts, with the finalists judged by a panel of celebrity chefs, writers, influencers and buyers. The overall winners will be announced on 18th October.