Bombay Sapphire appoints new master distiller

Bombay Sapphire has announced that experienced distiller Nik Fordham has been appointed to the position of master distiller. Fordham will oversee production for the brand and will lead its distillation process at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Laverstoke Mill, Hampshire, England, which is currently under construction and is due to open later this year.

In addition to crafting the iconic gin and managing its production team, he will be responsible for the quality assurance for Bombay Sapphire gin, ensuring consistency of the brand’s flavour profile.

Fordham will personally oversee all stages of production, including managing the unique vapour infusion distillation process, which is based on Thomas Dakin’s secret recipe that dates back to 1761.

As master distiller, Fordham will join Ivano Tonutti, Bombay Sapphire’s master of botanicals, who hand-selects each of the exotic botanicals from locations around the world.

Bombay Sapphire’s vapour infusion distillation process differs from traditional gin distillation methods as, rather than boiling the botanicals directly into the spirit, the botanicals are instead held separately from the spirit in perforated copper baskets. When the heated vapours rise, the distinctive flavours of the botanicals are captured by the spirit. Even today, Bombay Sapphire gin continues to be made using a Carterhead still purchased by the Dakin family in 1831.

While the overall gin market has remained flat in recent years, Bombay Sapphire says its popularity continues to grow year-on-year, nearly tripling in size since it was acquired by Bacardi.

“Nik’s extensive experience and fantastic track record makes him the perfect choice as the master distiller for the Bombay Sapphire gin portfolio,” said Emma Johansson, global marketing manager at Bombay Sapphire.

“With the opening of our distillery in Laverstoke Mill later this year, Nik’s appointment is an exciting opportunity for Bombay Sapphire and he will be a valuable part of the team in driving the re-invigoration of the gin category.”