Pin Gin in Parliament: A Dream Come True

Hi everyone!

Amy here from Giraffe Distillers, sharing a moment I’m still buzzing about. This week, I had the surreal honour of visiting the Houses of Parliament to celebrate Pin Gin being added to the Strangers’ Bar menu. Yes, you read that right—our Lincolnshire gin, crafted in our little corner of the world, is now being served in one of the most iconic buildings in the country!

The journey to this moment actually started back in 2018. We had the chance to showcase Pin Gin at an event in Parliament, where I met with Victoria Atkins, MP for Louth and Horncastle. Victoria and I spoke about the possibility of getting Pin Gin into Strangers’ Bar, the famed spot where Members of Parliament, Officers, their guests, and staff come to unwind. Fast forward to the Lincolnshire Show this past summer, and Victoria and I picked up right where we left off, talking about how amazing it would be to have a taste of Lincolnshire in the heart of Westminster.

Now, six years later, I found myself standing in the historic Strangers’ Bar, raising a Pin Gin & Tonic with Victoria and feeling an incredible sense of pride. Walking through the House of Commons, we even watched the debate on Rural Affairs, a topic close to my heart as we work to support local farming communities and sustainable practices in our gin production. The day ended with a moment by the Thames, gin in hand, soaking in the sights of the UK’s political heart—a memory I won’t forget anytime soon!

Victoria has been such a champion for our business, and I’m endlessly grateful for her support. She welcomed me to Parliament with such warmth, saying, “It’s wonderful to see local businesses thriving, and I’m so pleased I could help get Lincolnshire Pin Gin in Parliament.” Her enthusiasm reminded me just how special this journey has been, from our early days of handcrafting small batches to now seeing Pin Gin represented in such an iconic place.

This milestone is more than just a proud moment for me and our team at Giraffe Distillers—it’s a win for our entire community. Having lived in Lincolnshire for over ten years, I feel a huge connection to the people and the region that made Pin Gin possible. To see our small business making a mark in such a big way shows the potential that exists when communities and local businesses come together to support each other.

If you’re ever visiting Parliament, I hope you’ll raise a glass of Pin Gin with us and know that it carries the heart and spirit of Lincolnshire with it. Here’s to local dreams turning into national achievements!

Cheers, 

Amy