V Spirits Announces New Appointment - Johnny Neill

V Spirits Company is delighted to announce the appointment of Johnny Neill as Portfolio Director, marking a major step forward in the company’s ambition to become a leader in premium, sustainable spirits.

Johnny Neill, the founder of Whitley Neill Gin — the UK’s No.1 premium gin, brings with him over two decades of experience in building world-class spirits brands. As an eighth-generation distiller, his family’s heritage and his proven record of innovation have cemented his reputation as one of the most respected figures in the industry. Alongside Whitley Neill, Johnny has also founded Gelston’s Irish Whiskey and Berkshire Botanical, further demonstrating his flair for brand creation and category leadership.

In his new role, Johnny will spearhead new product development, support strategic acquisitions, and help guide the company’s long-term growth both in the UK and internationally. His appointment underlines V Spirits’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and building authentic, value-led brands.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining V Spirits Company at such an exciting time in its journey,” said Johnny Neill. “Carl and Nicole Churchill have already built several incredibly successful businesses with entrepreneurial energy and flair. Their strategic vision aligns with my experience in long-term brand development and consumer engagement. I’m looking forward to working closely with them to develop and expand the V Spirits portfolio, bringing new ideas, exploring strategic acquisitions, and crafting new brands that truly resonate with consumers. Sustainability is a core value we share, and I’m excited to contribute to V Spirits’ mission of developing authentic brands that are as responsible as they are innovative.”

Carl and Nicole Churchill, co-founders of V Spirits, added:
“Securing someone of Johnny’s calibre is an incredibly important part of us realising the considerable ambition we have within the business and we are excited and delighted to see him join our hugely talented, growing team at V Spirits Company. His track record in creating household names and driving market growth and leadership speaks for itself. Johnny shares our belief in building brands that combine commercial success with cultural and environmental responsibility. His appointment sends a clear signal of our intent to grow V Spirits into a portfolio of leading, sustainable, premium spirit brands.”

With Johnny at the helm of portfolio development, V Spirits is set to expand its reach through creative new product development, category leadership, and carefully targeted acquisitions, shaping the next chapter of growth for the business.

V Spirits Company is an independent distillery based in Hampshire, founded by husband-and-wife entrepreneurs Carl and Nicole Churchill, V Rum launched in early 2024. The “V”, Roman numeral for 5, marks their fifth business venture and a milestone in their mission to build a sustainable, value-led brand.

V Rum is one of just 5% of UK distilleries controlling every stage of production, from raw material to final spirit. The brand is built on a strong ethos of using premium British ingredients, traceable sourcing, and a deep commitment to environmental responsibility. At the heart of the operation is Head Distiller Mikey Melrose, a multi-award-winning distiller whose skill and innovation have shaped the character of V Rum’s distinctive product range.

To find out more please get in touch:

Press & Trade Contact:
Press: Shauna Miller / Bud Pollard | Email: pr@vrum.co.uk

To contact Johnny directly | Email: johnny.neill@vrum.co.uk

V Rum | V Spirits Company Limited
Phone:  023 8201 6200