Golden Fork NI for Basalt Volcanic Rock Gin
Food NI member Basalt Distillery has won the Guild of Fine Food’s prestigious Great
Taste Golden Fork Award for Northern Ireland with their Volcanic Rock Gin. The
Bushmills, Co. Antrim distillery is inspired by the raw geology of the UNESCO-listed
Giants Causeway. It was founded by chemical engineers, Martha Garbe and James
Richardson.
Every drop of spirit is distilled with ultra-pure water from a 600-foot deep borehole,
naturally filtered through the ancient basalt rock that forms the Giants Causeway.
Judges described it as “fascinating, distinctive and irresistible- pure alchemy.”
The announcement was made at a ceremony in Battersea Arts Centre, London on
Tuesday 9th September, 2025. The annual event celebrates the most outstanding
food and drink from around the world.
The nominees were already recipients of a 3-star Great Taste Award- something only
1.9 per cent of total entrants achieved.
Also in the running for the award were two beers from GetErBrewed from
Randalstown, Co. Antrim. They were Ramza Barrel Aged Keptinis Beer and
Untamed Barrel Aged Wild Ale VI. They push the boundaries of fermentation
experimenting with brewing and blending techniques in what they say is an “actual
passion project” for them.
Congratulations from all at Food NI.
