OTTERBECK Distillery, the brainchild of Nicola Lampkin, wife of legendary trials bike rider Dougie, and Alexa and Chris Ives, who founded Ilkley Brewery, has scooped a Great Taste Award.

The business situated at Bell Busk was founded during the first lockdown in May 2020. And the tipple has made it onto the list of Dougie’s favourite drinks. When not out on his bike he can be found helping out with labelling the bottles, particularly at busy times of the year.

Nicola said: “We’re thrilled that our first gin, Cotton Gin, has scooped another award - and the Great Taste Award is one of the most prestigious out there to win.

“Earlier in the summer this same gin won a silver medal at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), then it also won gold at the Gin Masters Spirits Business 2020.

“We lovingly craft this premium small batch gin using only the finest botanicals: Yorkshire watercress, English coriander, hand-foraged local spruce, rowan berries and nettle leaves. All of this makes for a fragrant and herbaceous gin which is reminiscent of an English country garden or a rolling meadow.”

Describing Otterbeck Cotton Gin, the Great Taste Award judges said it was a ‘well-rounded gin, extremely pleasant finish with rich sweet citric undertones that add depth. Complex but balanced, it will stand up to mixers and a number of classic gin cocktail recipes well with light dryness and spice on the finish. Very enjoyable, well conceived and rewarding’.

The business has also just secured a raft of new stockists across Yorkshire, including Robertshaws Farm shop near Halifax, TMR Foods near Ripon and ABV Wholesale in Keighley.

There is a story behind name of Cotton Gin. Nicola added: “In the 18th century, a five storey cotton and silk mill was erected on the banks of the River Aire. Producing the finest quality yarn and silk. Powered by a small steam engine and water wheel.

“Taking centre stage is our magnificent hand engineered 450 litre copper still, Eliza, named after the mill owners wife. It is, in its own right, a piece of art.

The team at Otterbeck love to support and work with local shops, producers and hotels such as Keelham Farm Shop, the Michelin starred Angel at Hetton, Coniston Hotel, Annabel’s Deliciously British and Tame & Wild.

Newest stockists across Yorkshire include Robertshaws Farm shop near Halifax, TMR Foods near Ripon and ABV Wholesale in Keighley.