A HISTORIC B-listed Scotch whisky distillery is set to be brought back to life after four decades.
Coleburn Distillery, in Speyside, was first built in 1897 but has been mothballed since 1985. It was bought by the Winchester brothers – Mark and Dale – in 2004 amid plans to develop it into a “whisky resort”.
Historic Environment Scotland states that the B-listed site was likely created by Charles Doig, a renowned distillery architect known for introducing the pagoda design.
Now, D&M Winchester Ltd, the firm which owns the site, has unveiled significant progress in its plans towards renovating the site to produce one million litres of whisky per year.
Keith Cruickshank has been appointed master distiller, after three decades at Benromach, and distillery specialists Organic Architects have also been brought in for the project.
Construction is scheduled to begin shortly with a completion date set for 2027. The firm said it signals a "landmark moment in the resurgence of Speyside’s whisky-making legacy".
Mark Winchester, co-owner of D&M Winchester, said: “We are thrilled to embark on this journey of reinstating the distillery with Organic Architects and have already made significant progress.
“Keith's appointment as our master distiller brings invaluable experience, and we look forward to creating exceptional spirits and welcoming both those from the area and much further afield to the distillery in the years ahead.”
Cruickshank said: “It is a great honour to be appointed master distiller of the distillery at Coleburn.
“This is a site with a rich heritage, and I am committed to restoring its distilling tradition with care, precision, and respect for the craft.
“My focus will be on developing a spirit that reflects the character of Coleburn and the wider Speyside region, using time-honoured methods and a thoughtful approach to production.
“Our aim is to produce Scotch whisky of the highest possible quality, rooted in authenticity and built to stand the test of time.”
Bari Reid, director at Organic Architects, said: “This is a unique opportunity to bring modern distilling practices together with a strong sense of place.
“The site’s history and its surroundings have formed our approach – our plan aims to support low-impact production while reflecting the character of the region.
“We’re looking forward to working with the distillery team to help bring their long-term vision to life.”
The Winchester brothers plan to create a “Coleburn Whisky Resort” around the distillery, including lodges, a hotel, a bistro, and conference space.
In 2024, Dale Winchester told the Press and Journal: “The original plan is still the plan to develop the whole site.
“Nowhere else have you got a five-star hotel sitting next door to a fully working distillery.
“It’s an opportunity for the public to get inside a distillery, stay overnight in it, get the sights, sounds and feel all together.”
