BROTHERS from the Borders have scooped a prestigious international prize for their alcoholic drink.

Dominic and David Tait, from St Boswells, are the creators of Tait Bros Valentian Vermouth.

And now the pair have become the proud winners of a silver award in the International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC).

Dominic, 32, said: “We’re delighted to have received this award. The IWSC panel are the best in the business so their appreciation means a lot to us.”

The vermouth category at the awards is broken into sub-categories, with the Taits competing in the 'sweet, red vermouth' group.

The brothers grew up around the distillery and brewery industries and their fascination with wines and spirits was what spurred them on to make their own product.

And they say the Borders also offers them a lot of inspiration.

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"The Borders is a great source of inspiration for our products – we've shown the Eildons on the bottle too," said Dominic.

"And we use Borders barley in the aromatisation of our products, giving it an additional flavour."

When asked why the duo chose vermouth as their first product, Dominic said: "It's something we've always been interested in and always drunk.

"We saw an opportunity to put a Scottish twist on a drink that's normally associated with Italy, Spain or France."

Since launching their aperitif, the brothers have welcomed support from bars, hotels and retailers across the country – including Mainstreet Trading Company in St Boswells.

Looking to the future, the Tait brothers hope to move their operation from their base in Piedmont, Italy, back to the Borders.

"These things take time," said Dominic.

"It will be at least three years before we move production to the Borders."