Edinburgh private-client whisky specialist Tailored Spirits Co wins UK Young Entrepreneur Award

Co-founders Adam Harding and Carl Johnstone jointly secured a £50,000 prize in recognition of their shared leadership in building their emerging whisky business.

LtoR: Carl Johnstone, Tom Costello, and Adam Harding of Edinburgh-based Tailored Spirits. | Jacek Hubner

Founded in 2024 and based at Commercial Street in Leith, Tailored Spirits Co. was awarded third prize by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of easyJet, as part of the annual awards recognising the UK’s most promising young entrepreneurs.

Tailored Spirits stood out among 61 applicants for its rapid growth, international reach, and distinctive positioning within the luxury whisky market. The business works with private clients, premium brands, and hospitality groups globally to source, design, and bottle bespoke single cask Scotch whiskies.

Since launching, the company has seen significant momentum, achieving £2.35 million turnover in 2025 and doubling its team to support growing global demand. With projects spanning the United States, Europe, and Asia, Tailored Spirits is capitalising on increasing appetite for personalised, experience-led whisky.

Adam Harding of Tailored Spirits with the third prize cheque for £50,000. | Nick Edwards

Adam Harding, co-founder and head of spirits, sales and strategy, said: “To be recognised by one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurs at such an early stage in our journey is an incredibly proud moment. This endorsement strengthens our position globally and supports our ambition to grow the business further.

“We’re seeing a shift in how people engage with whisky - it’s no longer just about buying a bottle, but about creating something truly personal. This award will help us accelerate our plans, including key hires and further expansion.”

Carl Johnstone, co-founder commercial and operations, added: “This recognition is a hugely proud moment for us as founders and reflects the progress we’ve made in a short space of time. The support from the Stelios Foundation will allow us to continue building the business, invest in our team, and expand our reach with clients globally.”

The Edinburgh-based bespoke whisky business was recognised among the UK’s most exciting high-growth start-ups. | Minty

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Tailored Spirits positions itself as an “experience-led whisky partner”, guiding clients through the full journey - from cask selection and liquid style to brand design and final bottling.

The business has also announced plans for continued expansion in 2026, including team growth and a move to a new brand home in Edinburgh, alongside upcoming high-profile private client projects.

The Stelios Foundation awards recognise entrepreneurs aged 34 and under who are building high-growth UK businesses, with a minimum revenue threshold of £500,000. Winners are selected based on their potential to scale and create jobs within the UK economy.