Jenny and Stephen McKerr
Forth Mains Farm,
McKerr Farming Ltd,
South Lanarkshire
Sponsored by: CLA
In 2018, first generation beef and sheep farmers Jenny and Stephen saw an opportunity in their run down farm steading and decided to set up a craft gin distillery.
The couple stayed in a caravan on-site with their three daughters, Catherine, Mirren and Corrie, and invested their house build money into transforming a former milking byre to eventually what would become The Wee Farm Distillery.
Producing a portfolio of gins along with more than 30 traditionally made gin liqueurs, Jenny opened the distillery to the public, which now means 80 per cent of the handmade gin is sold direct to the consumer.
Jenny was keen to produce a gin which celebrates the spirit of Scottish farming and also complements Scotch beef, so with this in mind the Drovers gin recipe contain pink peppercorns, allspice, heather and thistles to enhance the food pairing qualities.
She soon realised more opportunity awaited beyond just the distillery, as people were willing to experience the farm to purchase gin and enjoy a full day out.
Rennovation
In 2020 during lockdown, they renovated an old cottage on-site into a luxury self catering holiday let with hot tub, barbecue hut and a sensory gin garnish garden. The Distillers Cottage is now fully booked for the rest of the year with no signs of slowing down.
An online social media following of 14,000 has ensured their route to market has been through engagement, word of mouth and selling directly.
Recently the McKerr family opened Steak and Still Farm shop to sell their native Wagyu beef and Scotch lamb as well as produce from other local producers. The steaks sold out within hours of opening have received exceptional feedback.
With Jenny confident the demand for local food and drink will continue, she believes there is a huge opportunity for farmers to collaborate to promote food production positively and be part of the solution environmentally.
Proudest moment
“I am most proud of our family’s efforts to breathe life into the farm again. The pastures are green, the livestock are converting it well and our diversification into distilling and the farm shop are supported well locally and further afield.”
What the judges said:
The judges describe Jenny as inspirational, passionate and down to earth. She realised the risks she was undertaking and invested the family’s life savings to follow her dream. She showed huge community spirit during the early stages of the Covid pandemic and has achieved great flexibility within her business to adapt to every change that’s been thrown at her. A dynamic business leader, Jenny is operating a range of diversified enterprises alongside a small beef and sheep farm. Very impressive and a great ambassador for British farming.
On winning, Jenny said:
Jenny said: “It is lovely to get recognition. We do a little bit of everything in our business so innovation is extremely important to us.
“It’s good to be in a room that is buzzing and being surrounded by some many of our farming peers. What an incredible occasion to celebrate.”
Wee Farm Distillery facts
- First generation livestock farming family
- 2018 established diversification in gin production
- Strong social media presence
- 80 per cent sold of products sold directly to consumers
- Recently opened Steak and Still Farm shop