The 2023 Rugby World Cup is underway and two former rugby giants have capitalised on the tournament with the worldwide launch of their new gin. Mike Tindall and James Haskell, two legends of English rugby, have progressed from playing to developing their own liquor. Working alongside rugby broadcaster, Alex Payne, the duo created their rugby podcast: The Good, the Bad and the Rugby. Not content with creating the world’s biggest rugby broadcast, the trio have developed Blackeye Gin.
“Emotional resilience and kinship”
Crafted with the help of Hawkridge Distillers, the 40% Blackeye Gin boasts a ‘smooth blend of fresh citrus-forward flavours, subtle floral notes, and a burst of juniper’ and can be enjoyed mixed or neat.
When speaking about the launch, Tindall said: “We’re thrilled to be launching Blackeye Gin. It’s been a journey full of challenges, but a whole lot of fun too. James, Alex, and I have had various battles along the way – both on and off the pitch – and the name reflects the physical and emotional resilience and kinship we share.
“I think it really captures the essence of what this brand is all about – for those who give their best even when times are hard, and celebrate the good times.”
The path from rugby to gin
Mike Tindall and James Haskell are no strangers to the spotlight. During their careers, these former England players regularly featured in international competition. This includes the Rugby World Cup – Tindall was a member of England’s winning squad in 2003.
In total, the pair appeared in more than 150 England matches. Tindall made 75 appearances for England between 2000 and 2011 while Haskell earned 77 caps from 2007 to 2019.
Since retiring in 2014, Tindall has worked as a celebrity ambassador and been involved with numerous charities. Their latest endeavour, Blackeye Gin, includes the launch of a new charity venture: the Blackeye Fund.
A drink with a cause
The Blackeye Fund aims to support the future of the sport. The mission behind the organisation is to make their beloved game safer for future rugby athletes while simultaneously supporting current and former players.
Each bottle of artisanal gin will donate £1.50 ($2) to the Blackeye Fund. These proceeds will be used to support three key areas: research, risk and recovery. The fund is backed by a board of advisors and the trio hopes it will become one of the largest supporters of rugby-related research over the next five years.
