Wheadon’s Gin took a taste of our island home to London yesterday as the official gin partner for the release of the film The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.  The film, which is set in Guernsey, premiered at London’s Curzon Cinema in Mayfair last night and will go on general release in cinemas on 20^th April following a special gala premiere here in Guernsey on April 12^th.  The partnership saw international journalists attending the press day to interview the film’s stars enjoying Guernsey gin and tonics poured from bottles wrapped in special Guernsey jumper sleeves made by our friends at Guernsey Woollens, and miniatures available for press that included postcards from Guernsey in special “Gin Evacuation Scheme” envelopes hung around their necks.  Following the premiere, special Wheadon's Gin cocktails were served to those lucky enough to attend the after party.  Guests at the Guernsey gala premiere this Thursday will also get to enjoy Wheadon’s and tonics before sitting down to a special celebratory screening.

“ I keep a good supply of gin in my cupboard, so we came home.”

Isola Pribby to Juliet Ashton, from the novel that inspired the film

Given the backstory that gave the film part of its title - that of food shortages and culinary ingenuity during the years of occupation – the fact that each expression of Wheadon’s Gin features a locally sourced ingredient (such as rock samphire foraged from the south coast cliffs or mandarin limes grown in one of the island’s rejuvenated glasshouses) made our selection wonderfully appropriate.

“We were delighted to be selected as the official gin partner for the release of a film that celebrates Guernsey.  I take a lot of inspiration from both my family’s heritage in the production and distribution of fine alcohol and also from our island home, so having the opportunity to partner with a historical drama set here is an incredible honour as well as a great opportunity.  We had a fantastic time yesterday showcasing our product in London at the Global Premiere, but are also really looking forward to playing a part in the events and celebrations here at home.”

Luke Wheadon, Wheadon’s Gin

Alongside various events surrounding the film’s release, we will also be co-hosting a Heritage Festival ‘Occupation Dinner’ at our home in the historic Bella Luce Hotel on May 4th, serving up special pre-dinner drinks in a building that has its own fascinating occupation story involving Luftwaffe officers and a stash of hidden alcohol.         

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society will be in cinemas April 20^th.

See more photos from the red carpet at the World Premiere, here.