Whisky bosses submit plans for new distillery in Caithness

Whisky bosses have submitted plans for a new distillery near where the company first produced their drink – more than 200 years ago.

The family owned Midfearn Distillery Company hopes to build the facility on the 13,000-acre Midfearn Estate, near Ardgay, Caithness.

The company said the site is near what is believed to be the location of the Midfearn Distillery established in 1798 by local businessman George Ross.

The Estate has been in the Brooke family since 1893, with current custodian Charlie Brooke believing the distillery will provide local employment.

A Proposal of Application Notice has been submitted to Highland Council planning chiefs.

Mr Brooke said: “The Scotch whisky industry has advanced significantly since the opening of the first Midfearn Distillery, and we will not only set out to make a distinctive and high-quality whisky, but we will prioritise environmental sustainability and work towards carbon neutrality at every stage of the project.

“This is a family business that will build and grow this enterprise on a beautiful site within the Dornoch Firth National Scenic Area and we look forward to working with the local community to return whisky-making to Easter Fearn, with all the benefits that will bring to the economy of the area.”

The family owned Midfearn Distillery Company hopes to build the facility on the 13,000-acre Midfearn Estate, near Ardgay, Caithness.

The company said the site is near what is believed to be the location of the Midfearn Distillery established in 1798 by local businessman George Ross.

The Estate has been in the Brooke family since 1893, with current custodian Charlie Brooke believing the distillery will provide local employment.

A Proposal of Application Notice has been submitted to Highland Council planning chiefs.