Beefeater has announced today the retirement of master distiller emeritus Desmond Payne, following 30 years with the brand. 

Beefeater said that Payne has been pivotal in shaping the Beefeater brand. During his time at the company, he was involved in the creation of Beefeater 24, Beefeater Pink Strawberry and Beefeater Blood Orange. 

He leaves the industry with a list of achievements, including an MBE bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II,  an IWSC Lifetime Achievement Award and The Gin Guild Lifetime Achievement Award. 

The position of head distiller has been taken up by Adam Cocker, who continues to distil from the original Beefeater gin recipe. 

On his retirement, Payne said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to be the guardian of Beefeater Gin and see the brand thrive over these last three decades. But all good things must come to an end, and it is time for me to retire and pass the baton onto the next generation.  

“This has been more than a job to me; it has been a chance for me to follow my passion while honouring the traditions and craftsmanship of those that have come before. I know Adam and the rest of the distilling team will continue to champion Beefeater, creating only the highest quality liquids deserving of the Beefeater name.” 

Murielle Dessenis, global VP of marketing gins for Beefeater, added: “There are many emotions that envelope this moment – gratitude, pride and a touch of sadness. But also, excitement for what the future will hold. Desmond has been a revered and trusted custodian of the Beefeater brand, and his lifetime of service will be felt for many years to come.”