Dovey Native Botanical Gin has officially been granted Geographical Indication (GI) status under the UK’s spirit drink GI scheme, marking a significant milestone following a campaign by Dyfi Distillery

Defra (The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) confirmed the formal registration on March 31, 2025, following the original application submitted in 2022, now recognised alongside other iconic Welsh products such as Pembrokeshire Native Oysters and Welsh Heather Honey, Dovey’s recognition was part of a broader announcement on April 7, 2025

What GI Status Means for Producers and Consumers

GI status now safeguards the name Dovey Native Botanical Gin, ensuring that only gin produced according to the validated standards and within the designated region can bear the name. This preserves both its authenticity and regional heritage. This move is expected to bolster consumer confidence and offer producers a competitive advantage by emphasising provenance.

New Compliance Framework for Production

On September 1, 2025, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) published official guidance outlining the verification process for new producers. To produce or market Dovey Native Botanical Gin, new entrants must:

  1. Apply to the Spirit Drinks Verification Scheme
  2. Meet the prescribed product specifications
  3. Undergo verification visits every two years (or more frequently, if needed) Find out more here: GOV.UK

HMRC will verify operations including invoices, delivery records, procedures, and equipment. Producers who pass these checks will have their facilities listed in the official Spirit Drinks Verification Look-up Facility. Non-compliant producers risk losing registration and must notify customers if delisted. Enforcement, however, remains the domain of food and port health authorities.

Existing producers making Dovey Native Botanical Gin between May 19, 2022, and September 1, 2025 are considered verified until September 1, 2026. They must apply and pay related fees within 30 days of the 2025 guidance to maintain verified status.

A Win for Gin Innovation?

Stakeholders have welcomed the GI recognition as a celebration of Welsh craftsmanship and tradition. GI protection can bolsters a brand’s identity and also help to preserve and promote local distilling heritage in a competitive global market.

At a Glance

Aspect Details
GI Registration Date March 31, 2025
Producer Requirements Verification, compliance with product specification, HMRC oversight
Existing Producers Deadline Apply by September 1, 2025 for continued verified status till 2026
Significance Protects regional authenticity and supports Welsh gin reputation globally