Lifetime Achievement Award #2 Tom Nichol

Tom Nichol, Tanqueray Master Distiller, was the star of the show at the Gin Industry’s Annual Dinner last night, as he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Grand Rectifier of The Gin Guild, Christopher Hayman.

After 42 years of service and dedication to the distilling and gin industries, Tom is retiring from his position as Master Distiller of Tanqueray – where he has personally overseen the selection of the finest ingredients to make Tanqueray gin, managing every stage of the distillation process to ensure quality is consistent across all elements of production.

Tom’s career covers a specialised experience in whisky, vodka and gin distillation, giving him a rare depth of expertise in the industry.

Tom commented: “

Everything I have learnt throughout my years in distilling has helped me reach the ultimate pinnacle of becoming Master Distiller of Tanqueray.

My role has been all the more rewarding because gin is the most complex spirit to distil – and Tanqueray is the most colourful, rich, and vibrant gin to create.

“Receiving this accolade is a great honour and I am thrilled to share the celebrations with my industry peers at the Gin Industry Annual Dinner and The Gin Guild’s Spring Installation”

Tom was presented with the award at the 2015 Gin Guild Spring Installation,  the sixth installation since the organisation was set up in 2012, with the aim of encouraging excellence in gin distillation, whilst promoting the category worldwide.

Nicholas Cook, Director General of The Gin Guild commented:

“We were delighted to honour Tom Nichol with The Gin Guild’s Lifetime Achievement Award, it really does play testament to the contribution he has made to the gin category over the years.  Tom’s passion, energy and drive will be missed by all of his Diageo colleagues. To have a Master Distiller who personifies the brand, as Tom does, is a real formula for success. He leaves Tanqueray back in growth – for which he was a key driver – our congratulations to Tom!”