“Accidental Gin Maker” and Gin Bothy founder Kim Cameron is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Jam Bothy that started it all today (September 20). As the first company of the now globally established Bothy Trading Group, the artisanal producer has launched three new cans; blackcurrant jam, orange and cranberry jam and the long-awaited chutney.
The milestone marks a decade since Kim first started making jams and marmalades in the Angus Glens kitchen. That was the beginning of his gin journey when he used the leftover juice to create the now famous Gin Bothy Raspberry Gin.
After achieving success at the 2014 World Championships with her homemade recipe, Kim was inspired to turn a traditional bothy in the Angus countryside into a production kitchen and give way to Jam Bothy. Committed to seasonal local fruit, the brand quickly became known for its quality preserves before being discontinued to focus on Gin Bothy spirits.
The Gin Bothy has since grown to become one of Scotland’s leading producers of the drink, with over 65,000 units sold worldwide each year. Most recently, their Original Gin was included in the 96th Academy Awards nominees’ Gift bags and was taken home by stars such as Cillian Murphy and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Relaunched at the Royal Highland Show last summer, Jam Bothy’s new Scottish blackcurrant jam, cranberry and orange jam and Scottish apple chutney join its revamped range. These sit alongside whiskey, gin and rum marmalades and Scottish seasonal favorites such as Raspberry & Gin, Rhuparb & Ginger, Strawberry & Champagne and Chilli Jam.
Kim said: “Sourcing over five tonnes of fruit from local farms such as Croft Farm and Castleton Farm ensures that our produce is not only fresh but truly Scottish. Working with local farmers allows us to celebrate the incredible produce available on our doorstep.”
“From berries delivered after hours of picking, to blackcurrants from Blairgowrie and plums from Angus orchards, local fruit is at the heart of everything we create, from jams to gins.”
Coming full circle, Kim is now using the fruit juice from Jam Bothy’s Scottish blackcurrant jam to develop a new vodka under sister brand Hipflask Spirits.
Reflecting on the trip, Kim said, “Going back to where it all started feels really special. As part of our anniversary, we are launching new jams that embody our commitment to creativity and sustainability. Reusing the fruit in our jams for spirits has always been a core value of Bothy Brands, and this zero-waste philosophy is still at the heart of what we do.
Jam Bothy’s 10th anniversary comes at a time when the Bothy Brand portfolio has grown significantly, including a move to new premises in Forfar to increase production capacity, the launch of Bothy Butter and a deal with Morrisons to stock Hipflask Spirits in their Scottish stores. .
Kim concludes, “It’s hard to believe how quickly the last decade has gone by. When we look back at all that we have achieved with the Bothy brands, it is humbling to think that it all started in that small Bothy kitchen. We’re excited to continue sharing our new products with our loyal customers who have been with us every step of the way.”
Available online and in store at the Bothy Experience in Glamis and the Bothy Larder in Forfar. Visit and try the Jam Bothy range or www.ginbothy.co.uk/jambothy to find out more.