Benbecula – A Distillery Room with a View
Client: MacMillan Spirits Co.
Location: Gramsdale, Benbecula
Overview
Located on the Isle of Benbecula between North and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides, this unique distillery project is set in a former salmon processing facility. The site combines natural beauty, a strong island identity, and the use of local bere barley to deliver a distinctive whisky rooted in its surroundings. The project launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, adding further complexity to logistics and execution. .
Objectives
- Deliver a high-quality malt distillery producing a distinctive maritime-style single malt
- Minimise the facility’s carbon footprint through efficient energy use
- Support the regeneration of the island by creating new skilled jobs and a sustainable enterprise
Approach
Allen Associates was engaged from the project’s inception and provided comprehensive support from FEED through to commissioning. Working closely with the client team and key suppliers such as Speyside Copperworks and Muirton Control & Automation Ltd, AA delivered:
- Front-End Engineering Design (FEED)
- Detailed Process Design and Equipment Specification
- Integration of a Waste Heat Recovery System – which is heat pump ready
- On-Site Construction and Commissioning Support
Outcomes
- A fully operational distillery producing 350,000 litres of spirit annually
- A highly efficient energy system with integrated heat recovery which has been designed for the integration of a high temperature heat pump.
- A visually striking building, including a lighthouse-inspired glass extension
- Launch of a unique single malt that reflects the character of Benbecula
By engaging early and collaborating across design and delivery, Allen Associates helped the client realise their vision for a sustainable, island-rooted distillery.
Founder Angus MacMillan summed up the project’s significance:
“There’s nowhere quite like Benbecula, and we are proud to be able to play a part in sustaining our island, creating new, skilled jobs and producing a single malt whisky that will capture the essence of this unique place.”