What’s driving the interest in golf among gin manufacturers? Previously, I discussed Eden Mill‘s gin, and now I’m pleased to present Ben Lomond Scottish Gin‘s Open Special Edition 2025 (see below).
While beer and whisky brands have traditionally dominated golf sponsorships, gin is gaining recognition in this space.
Its rising popularity among Gen Z and millennials can be attributed to its versatility, craft quality, and appealing aesthetics.
This shift is mainly due to the premiumization of the gin category, as younger drinkers are increasingly willing to invest in quality spirits even while consuming less overall.
They gravitate towards premium options offering unique flavors, natural ingredients, and eye-catching presentations as part of the broader craft cocktail revival.
This trend presents a constructive opportunity for gin to position itself as a means of personal expression and style.
The growing popularity and demand for gin among these two target groups can be attributed to the creativity and influence of bartenders and influencers (e.g., @colletescocktails and @spiritedla).
Gin stands as an inspiring cornerstone of cocktail artistry.
According to my sources, the primary age groups of The Open are:
- Ages 50+ – Core audience;
- Ages 35-49 – secondary audience –> Gen X and older Millennials. A significant number of individuals are currently in their peak earning years, aligning them with the target demographic for sponsors in sectors such as luxury automobiles, travel, finance, and related industries.
- Ages 18-34 – Smaller but growing segment.
Ben Lomond Scottish Gin: Open Special Edition 2025
Ben Lomond Gin launched its Open Special Edition 2025 for the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club.
In 2023, the brand was designated the Official Gin of The Open, introducing a limited-edition gin to celebrate The 151st Open at Royal Liverpool.
This was succeeded by a special edition for the 152nd Open at Royal Troon in 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, Ben Lomond introduces a gin that captures the essence of Royal Portrush, crafted with 3 botanicals foraged from the Royal Portrush Golf Course:
- wild carrot seed,
- sea buckthorn, and
- hawthorn leaf.
These elements collectively distill the wild essence of the links into a gin that is intricate, coastal, and full of character, much like the course itself.
Ben Lomond’s distinctive 6-botanical base serves as the foundation, offering a pine-fresh aroma complemented by sweet, earthy spices and elevated by floral and citrus undertones.
On the palate, the gin is both pure and untamed, revealing
- nuances of anise,
- the sweetness of carrot, and
- warm nuttiness,
- finished with a vibrant tartness.
The aftertaste reflects the Portrush coastline, with lingering spices harmonized by a burst of citrus and a subtle floral finish.
Ben Lomond Scottish Gin will also open its new home and distillery this summer, located in Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond.
This will offer a new chapter in the brand’s story of innovation and craftsmanship.
At The Open at Royal Portrush
At The Open at Royal Portrush, Ben Lomond Scottish Gin will feature a dedicated Gin Garden experience alongside its sister brand, Loch Lomond Whisky, the official Spirit of The Open.
The Open Special Edition Gift Set will be available to purchase directly from Ben Lomond Scottish Gin online, through various specialist retailers, and at the Ben Lomond Scottish Gin stand at The 153rd Open from July 17 to 20, 2025.
The Ben Lomond Open Special Edition 2025 Gin is available now via the Ben Lomond website.
Two formats are available:
- The Bottle Only pack (6 x 70cl, ABV 43%) at an RSP of £35, and
- The Gift Set includes two branded glasses and a gift carton (6 x 70cl, ABV 43%), at an RSP of £45.