Scotch whisky producer Speyside Distillers has revealed plans to open a second single malt distillery in the region.
Single malt whisky and gin maker Speyside Distillers operates the Speyside Distillery near Kingussie in the foothills of the Cairngorms National Park. The firm produces the Spey and Beinn Dubh single malt whisky brands and Byron’s Gin.
The company is preparing to build a second distillery in Speyside as part of its ‘ambitious’ expansion plans. Full details of the new development are under wraps, including where it will be located.
Managing director Patricia Dillon said: “Last year was challenging for us, as it was for most businesses dealing with Covid-19. With our industry also facing the added problem of US tariffs, we have had to change our strategy to find new and innovative ways to drive our business forward.
“In 2019 we committed to increasing our distillate to meet rising demand, and this year we are producing five times our normal rates.
“Our plans for a new distillery will ensure that we can continue to distil the quantities of whisky required, while also allowing us room for further expansion.
“Although our full plans – including location and design – are currently under wraps, we’re looking forward to sharing more as they unfold over the coming months and years.”
Speyside Distillery has also expanded its distilling team with two new members who will assist in boosting production.
Chief executive John Harvey McDonough added: “Building a new distillery is obviously a major commitment, and we are incredibly excited about the opportunities it shall bring for our single malt whisky brands.
“In recent months we have brought in two new team members – Martin MacLeod and Raymond MacKay – to assist long-serving employee Andrew Scorgie and distillery manager Allan Findlay, which will allow us to maintain the levels of production required to match demand.
“It’s important to us that we continue to embrace experience and history within the whisky industry, while also continuing to innovate and nurture new talent to ensure its bright future.”
In 2019, Speyside Distillers signed a distribution deal with Luzhou Laojiao International Development in China.
The firm invested £200,000 (US$267,395) in creating a visitor centre in the Scottish Highlands of Aviemore in 2018.
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Author: Nicola Carruthers
