The recently-departed head of bitters and rum group Angostura has resurfaced as the CEO of UK-based Highclere Castle Spirits.
Laurent Schun, who at the start of 2023 left Pernod Ricard after 34 years to head to Trinidad & Tobago, departed Angostura in January. The executive announced his new appointment on LinkedIn yesterday (17 November).
Highclere Castle, which featured prominently in the period drama Downton Abbey, is situated just outside London and started producing its namesake gin brand in 2019. The “super-premium” gin uses ten botanicals grown locally on the castle’s estate.
“After an incredible journey leading global teams and building premium brands globally, I’m excited to bring my experience in strategic growth, brand building and international market expansion to this exceptional company,” wrote Schun. “Our mission is … to elevate Highclere Castle Spirits into a globally recognised name in the luxury spirits category while staying true to its unique story and authenticity.
“Our ambition is (to) position Highclere Castle Gin among the top ten super-premium gin brands worldwide.”
Co-owned by the Earl & Countess of Carnarvon, who also own Highclere Castle, the spirits business was founded by entrepreneur Adam von Gootkin. A bottle of Highclere Castle Gin retails online for US$29.99
