The Isle of Wight Distillery is delighted to announce it has been named Best Drinks Producer 2023 at the prestigious BBC Food and Farming Awards, held on 25th October.

The BBC Food and Farming Awards was launched in 2000 to mark the 20th anniversary of Radio 4’s The Food Programme. Since its inception it has continued to champion and highlight the people who, through food, are changing Britain for the better. The Best Drinks Producer celebrates, according to category judge Jaega Wise, "the best of the UK’s drinks producers. People who aren’t just making incredible drinks but are doing things a bit differently".

The Isle of Wight Distillery was initially nominated for the award by members of the public and then went on to be judged by presenter and brewer Jaega Wise, who visited the distillery in August.  The distillery was shortlisted alongside Nc’Nean Distillery from Scotland and Old Tree Brewery in Lewes, East Sussex, before being named the winner at the ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Newport.

The Isle of Wight Distillery was founded in 2014 by Xavier Baker and Conrad Gauntlett. Their small team distill spirits shaped by the stunning surroundings and unique character of the island.  All who work at the distillery are committed to the environmentally friendly production of spirits and the preservation of the island and marine environment.  They minimise waste, using ethically sourced and often local ingredients to craft a range of smooth, complex spirits. In November 2022 they were the first business on the Isle of Wight to achieve B Corp accreditation for their commitment to operate in a way that has a positive impact on the planet.

Xavier Baker, Co-founder Isle of Wight Distillery said, “We are delighted to be named the UK’s Best Drinks Producer by the BBC. To reach the final was an amazing feat and it doesn’t get much better than top spot on the podium especially considering the calibre of our fellow finalists.   This award recognises the hard work and passion of the whole team and we are all just over the moon. I would also like to thank the team here in Wales for all their hard work in pulling this event together. It is heart warming to hear of the progressive initiatives offering under privileged communities access to food and farming practices, and to see a team of people who clearly care so deeply for the food and drinks community”.