An entrepreneur from Wistaston raised her spirits during lockdown – by creating one of the first UK maps of independent distilleries, writes Hannah Youds.
Kate Carney’s “Sip and Share” idea allows fellow spirit-lovers to get discounts off their favourite beverages like gin and other drinks from independent makers.
The 36-year-old has created the UK’s only small batch craft spirits membership club which she’s been busy setting up during lockdown.
Originally a gin blog, Kate started off doing live gin reviews and sharing her thoughts on different spirits until it developed to an online distillery map.
However, it is her new venture that is hopeful of bringing in those passionate about spirits.
Kate said: “I now have more than 150 bottles of premium craft gin, run two Facebook groups, Instagram, Facebook, post to YouTube and have created an exclusive network for distillers so they now work together and support each other.
“Now distillers from across the UK send me gin or spirits each week to taste, I share them online and the members get the offers.
“Some of the products you can only get through Sip and Share!”
The membership squad launched on September 26 and the cost is £1 for the first payment then £2.99 a month.
45 people have already signed up as members and the group has exclusive offers lined up from 12 distillers between now and January, offering up to 30% off.
“The launch party was amazing!” Kate added.
“We had 65 people on Zoom from across the UK making cocktails, tastings and dancing their heads off to music!
“I thought it (the membership squad) had legs when I looked at the market and realised there were lots of subscription boxes popping up, but how does the consumer get choice yet still enjoy special offers and feel part of a club?” she added.
Membership is also helping to support small independent distillers across the UK and allows them to remain open, rather than giving money to the well-known spirit brands.
The membership option is now available and you can read more about joining here: https://shop.sipandshare.co.uk/
