Outline plans for a single malt whisky distillery beside the Dornoch Firth have been lodged with Highland Council.
The Midfearn Distillery Company Ltd. (MDCL) are proposing to build their new site on the Midfearn Estate at Easter Fearn close to the site of a former distillery that was established in 1798, over 200 years ago.
The plans will now undergo consultation with the public and a meeting is set to take place in early December. Should the proposal be accepted MDCL would then be able to submit a detailed planning application.
Midfearn Estate provides electricity from existing wind and hydropower projects and the long-term sustainability of its energy source will form an important element of the distillery’s development.
The current custodian of the family-owned Estate – run by the Brooke family since 1893 – Charlie Brook 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.”
