The pair have focused their gin production on the adage that 75 per cent to 95 per cent of a gin’s flavour profile is based on smell, creating a Zesty Citrus Gin, a Herby & Aromatic one and their Sweety and Nutty Old Tom Gin. ROYAL DEESIDE: ESKER GIN They recently hit the headlines with their innovative gin baubles which have been massively popular since their launch at Christmas a few years ago. NB claim that no matter the demand for their product they will only ever produce in small batches to ensure their gin is as perfect as they can make it and remains hand-crafted. Having been part of the Brit awards after party for several years, it’s clear that it’s that not only gin lovers taking notice but also music royalty are too. EDINBURGH: EDINBURGH GIN Picture: Edinburgh Gin

The juniper is beautifully balanced, and lingers purposefully behind those bold red fruits, with suggestions of a rich and warming sweet spice. It works brilliantly as a G&T, with a fresh raspberry garnish. The tonic pulls forward a little more sweetness, whilst maintaining the strong raspberry flavour, putting a delicate and floral touch on a classic.Nic’s Gin & Beer says:“For me, Valhall is quite exceptional. It was designed as a sipping gin, so simply serve over ice and enjoy. It’s glorious, smooth, full of juniper, a little spice and some sweetness from the mandarins… I adore it. I’d happily recommend anything from Hrafn but this is their standout for me. Try it in their Smoked Negroni and prepare to have your mind blown!”

Distilled in Leith, the Edinburgh port has a long history with gin. Achroous uses botanicals such as liquorice, fennel seed and Sichuan. The team at Kirkjuvagr worked closely with the Agronomy Institute of the UHI (University of the Highlands and Islands) to create a blend of local botanicals. Beginning life in October 2015, Stirling Gin is making steady progress in the sea of Scottish gin competitors and gaining recognition as one of the best new examples of the spirit around at the minute. Perhaps most interestingly, they use both traditional Italian and Bulgarian junipers which are blended together to create a unique juniper taste for their gin. Not content to settle for just gin, they've also just released Scotland's first Absinthe Blanche. ISLE OF HARRIS: ISLE OF HARRIS GIN Picture: Harris Gin

Lonewolf Gunpowder Gin

Now they venture out into the wilds of the Hebridean island to collect ingredients for their unique home brew. Priding themselves on creating a taste of Edinburgh, the company's myriad gins are as varied as they are excellent (we recommend the delightfully punchy Edinburgh Cannonball bottled at 57.2% abv).

Disclosure: Katie was previously sent a miniature of Biggar Strength Gin, but was so impressed she bought a full bottle after tasting!The first of several navy strength gins on our list is a relative newcomer to the Scottish Gin scene. Launching in May 2020, Biggar Gin have built on their growing following with the playfully named Biggar Strength. Winner of a silver medal at the London Spirits Competition 2020, it uses the locally foraged hawthorn berry as a key botanical. The distillery is a controlled working and manufacturing environment, and you should exercise due care and attention on the tour. Distillery staff may draw your attention to specific health & safety procedures to which you must adhere. If the fire alarm sounds during your tour the tour guide will direct you to the nearest exit and muster point.

What can be said about Jim McEwan that hasn't already been said? The man was already a legend in whisky circles before turning his hand to gin. Named in celebration of the moment that Mary Queen of Scots first spied her husband-to-be Lord Darnley at Wemyss Castle in 1565, Darnley's is produced by the Wemyss (that's weems not weemiss or weemees) family in Fife.We support the Scottish Government’s Zero Tolerance campaign towards drinking & driving, and recommend visitors who intend to consume alcohol arrive on foot, or by public transport. A selection of some of the nation’s artisan spirits from distillers including Esker and Shetland Reel will be available for a limited time during the popular in-store festival. It’s fair to say that you can’t get much further north than Unst in Shetland and their gin Shetland Reel, really reflects the rugged spirit and beautiful landscape of where the drink is made.