First Impressions
Kirkjuvagr Beyla is named after the Norse goddess of bees, and honey is central to its character. Orcadian honey from the distillery's own garden joins fresh Scottish raspberries and the classic Kirkjuvagr botanical base. It is an Old Tom in style — sweetened, fruity, and approachable — but with Orkney's distinctive island character.
Tasting
The nose delivers aromatic herbs and spicy juniper with juicy raspberries, honey sweetness and sea salt. On the palate, honey at the start before raspberry brings robust fruity flavours, with floral depth before a drier character emerges. Fresh, not artificial; crisp, not cloying. The finish sees drier character emerging through sweetness.
The Bottom Line
Kirkjuvagr Beyla earns a 7 for an Old Tom that tastes of real raspberries and real honey rather than artificial flavourings. The sea salt adds a distinctive Orcadian touch, and the drier finish prevents it from becoming merely sweet. Lovely with light Indian tonic or lemonade.
