Catriona and Cara first launched Bealach Gin in October 2023. The pair met at a local mother and toddler group and soon became firm friends, realising that they not only had a shared love of being mums, but were both gin enthusiasts.

Inspired by the rugged landscape of their surroundings, the duo wanted to make a gin that reflects their home. The result was Bealach Highland Gin – a smooth spirit with a distinctive and flavourful taste thanks to the use of sustainably foraged local botanicals, such as brambles, bog myrtle and pines.

Bealach translates to ‘mountain pass’ from Scots Gaelic, which is a nod to the banks of Loch Lochy, where Catriona and Cara live.

The pair received support from Business Gateway to launch their venture in October 2023. With help securing a Highland Council start-up grant, they have quickly expanded production to meet growing demand.

Bealach Highland Gin, which is now on its fifth batch, is now stocked in seven different businesses within a 16-mile radius of Catriona and Cara’s base. The pair has successfully applied for Alcohol Wholesalers Registration Scheme through HMRC, and now have plans to sell to local retailers and beyond in the future.

The gin was recently awarded silver from the International Wine & Spirit Competition, with the judges describing the spirit as having “a nice depth of flavour, balanced heat, and great complexity”.

Catriona Murch, co-founder, Bealach Gin, said: “After careful planning and market research, we knew that we had a solid idea to launch our own craft gin. We approached Business Gateway Highland and met with our advisor who was instantly encouraging.

“We have very much benefited from the financial support of the start-up grant as there are so many costs to cover at the beginning.”

Dianne Swanepoel, Business Gateway Highland start-up adviser, said: “Catriona and Cara have worked really hard over the last year to launch their craft gin, and I’m so pleased that they can now call it an award-winning product.

“I would encourage anyone in the local area thinking of starting a business or growing an existing business to make contact with Business Gateway as your first stop shop and make the most of the funding support available.”