AN AWARD-WINNING Herefordshire distillery has partnered with rugby union’s British and Irish Lions.

Chase Distillery, based in Preston Wynne between Hereford and Bromyard, has joined the portfolio of Lions’ suppliers after becoming the official vodka and gin of the tour.

As part of the partnership, Chase Distillery will receive several commercial rights, including in-stadia branding and tickets for both the Castle Lager Lions Series and the Vodafone 1888 Cup match against Japan scheduled to take place at Murrayfield on June 26.

The deal also sees the distillery benefit from digital and social media rights, access to the Lions’ events programme, and the option to create bespoke content using Lions archive and on-tour footage.

The distillery, recently taken over by drinks giant Diageo, will also have access to Lions players and coaches for commercial appearances and promotions, as well as the opportunity to watch the team train.

Lions’ managing director Ben Calveley said: “It is fantastic to welcome Chase Distillery to our family of commercial suppliers.

“In Chase Distillery, we have found a partner who shares our passion for excellence, and we are very pleased to have them on board.”

Founded in 2008, Chase Distillery has been at the forefront of the craft spirits movement, producing gins and vodkas made from scratch on the farm.

Distillery director James Chase said: “As a proud British brand, we could not be more excited to be teaming up with the Lions, and to become an official supplier for the series too. Both the Lions and everyone at Chase Distillery have a shared commitment to be the very best in our fields, so for us, it’s a perfect partnership.

“We already have a number of exciting plans scheduled.

“As well as introducing limited-edition products and launching some exclusive competitions, we’ll be looking at new, fun and interesting ways to engage with Lions supporters to bring them closer to the game we all love.”