The Gin Industry Annual Dinner has long been one of the Guild’s most sought after events. Attendance is only available to those in the gin industry (no spouse / partner / non-industry guests permitted on this occasion), so has a unique place in the annual spirits calendar as it provides unrivalled networking opportunities with key industry members. Please check with the Director General if unsure.
Praise for the Gin Industry Annual Dinner:
We are so looking forward to a night away, some good food, drink & great company.
Truly honoured to be part of The Gin Guild, and it was a humbling experience to be in a room filled with icons of the industry.
Gin Guild members
6.15 Welcome G&Ts, with various gins for your appreciation, drawn from the legendary Guild bar. This is a showcase of gins from our Founder Wardens, and from new members who joined the Guild in the last year, and new products from existing members that have been launched in the last twelve months.
6.45 7.15 Installation of new Guild members. During which time the bar will be closed.
7.15 – 7.45 (approx) – The Gin Guild installs new members
7.45 The Guild bar reopens.
8.00 Dinner
Speeches: by Gin Guild Chairman Christopher Hayman and The Thinking Drinkers
Ben McFarland and Tom Sandham, known as the ‘Thinking Drinkers’, are award-winning alcohol experts, writers, comedians, presenters and podcasters.
Working together since 2006 they have co-written a number of books including “The Thinking Drinkers Almanac”. In 2011 they transferred our expertise and unique take on alcohol from the editorial page to the comedy stage, writing and and performing “The Thinking Drinker’s Guide to Alcohol”, a unique comedic drinking show during which audience members sip discerning drinks and learn more about the role of alcohol in history.
They are currently touring the “Thinking Drinkers’ Pub Quiz” show with dates in 2023. In addition they continue to contribute to TV, podcasts and news media.
After dinner the Guild bar will (time permitting), reopen for a nightcap.
10.30 All attendees begin to vacate the premises which needs to be clear by 11pm.
The Gin Guild installation is held in the early evening, before the Board of the Gin Guild, in the Old Library at London’s Guildhall, in front of invited guests and colleagues and Guild members.
This event has a particular flavour and style, as it is a very distinguished location, which we are privileged to share. Before and after the ceremony, members of the Guild old and new, and their guests, share in a gin bar.
They are able to sample the spirit alongside the conviviality of Guild membership. After the installation members and their guests are able to enjoy a formal dinner in the Guildhall.
A full e-brochure is available for this event on request to share with potential guests.
Any dietary requirements will need to be advised at time of booking. It is not possible to request a change the menu at the event itself. Any general allergies and preferences (vegetarian/vegan/allergies etc.), however should be noted in the usual way when booking online.
As ever, given the prominence of the venue, security is a major consideration. Please note the importance of having attendee names well in advance and to advise the Guild in writing of any change of names.
It is essential that attendees bring their invitations to gain access and photo ID (passport or a photocard Drivers Licence), as it is anticipated that the venue will be quite strict about allowing access. If you or any guest drops out, please try to fill the space with an appropriate guest.