Remembering Ian Killen, founder of Belfast 1912 Gin

Ian Killen, Founder of the historic local triple-grain cask Belfast 1912 Gin, was a well known and highly regarded personality within the local drinks and hospitality industry.

Having worked as Marketing Manager in W&A Gilbey and founded Belfast Gin & Spirits School, he spent the past years immersed in what he truly loved, the art of distilling.

After discovering a century-old spirit recipe during home renovations, Ian devoted his efforts to reviving this piece of Northern Ireland’s spirit heritage and celebrated its success to date at a special event at Titanic Hotel alongside renowned mixologist Anthony ‘Soda’ Farrell of Cocktail Keg Company shortly before his recent passing.

Interviewed just a few months ago by the Belfast Telegraph he said: ”I can honestly say I love what I do. It has always been my dream to own a gin brand. One of the difficult parts of my job is grasping the reality that I am living my dream, telling this unique brand story to buyers and gin drinkers around the world. As the saying goes ‘when you love what you do, you never work a day in your life’.”

Ian’s legacy will live on through Belfast 1912. Over the past months Ian had put in place the building blocks for a brand steeped in rich heritage and with true potential to become a favourite both on these shores and beyond.

Through his ongoing collaboration with Gary Flynn, managing director of specialist drinks agency CB Drinks and his team committed to growing Ian’s legacy, Belfast 1912 continues to develop locally and internationally with a renewed commitment to honouring the man behind the brand.

Let’s raise a glass to Ian – a man of vision, passion and determination.