THE owner of Bruichladdich distillery has hailed double digit growth for its Scottish business in the first half of its financial year.

French spirits giant Remy Cointreau, said that its Progressive Hebridean Distillers business, which also includes the Port Charlotte and Octomore whiskies, said sales had been driven mainly by the success of The Botanist Gin in all regions.

The Paris-listed group, which acquired the Islay-based business for £58m in 2012, generated sales of £485m in the half, up six per cent on last year. Remy noted sustained momentum in the second quarter, up 6.8 per cent.