UK: Talks begin on Borders whisky distillery

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 12 December 2006

A consortium of former drinks industry heavyweights has approached local authorities in the Borders region of Scotland over plans to build a Scotch whisky distiller in the area.

The group, which is said to be headed by former Diageo director Alan Rutherford, is looking to set up the first distillery in the Borders and has started talks with the Scottish Borders Council.

The council declined to comment on reports that the consortium has already picked a favoured site at Mellerstain.

Bryan McGrath, head of economic development and regeneration at Scottish Borders Council, said: "We can confirm that SBC's Economic Development Unit have been contacted by a representative from the consortium to discuss the potential for a distillery in the Borders. These discussions are at an extremely early stage and no definite locations have been identified."

Sectors: Spirits

Companies: Diageo