The company is expecting to distil its first samples of vodka 'fairly soon', according to the company, but launching the brand is still in the early stages. It has not yet decided on a strategy for the brand, which will go under the Tyrrells name, or where it will fit in the market. In the past, Tyrrells has created its own packaging designs in house.
The vodka is being produced with potatoes that are too small to be turned into crisps. Vodka was traditionally produced from grains, but since the 19th century, it has been commonly distilled from potatoes as well.
The Tyrrells brand was founded in 2002, when potato farmer William Chase wanted to diversify from pure potato production. In the five years since, it has expanded rapidly, and employs more than 100 people, exporting its crisps to almost 20 countries.
The funding from the Bank of Scotland, given as part of its Entrepreneur Challenge, will be used to launch the new vodka brand, as well as build a visitor centre and farm shop at Rosemaund Farm in Hereford.
Tyrrells famously won a spat against Tesco, which it will not allow to stock its crisps. Tesco had been selling the brand at a discount rate through the grey market last year, but Chase threatened legal action and Tesco backed down.
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