Whisky Production Reigns Again in The Cabrach: A Historic Revival

Scotch whisky production has triumphantly returned to its historical roots in the scenic village of The Cabrach, located in rural Moray, after a hiatus of more than 170 years. This momentous event was celebrated with an exclusive ceremony attended by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic, Kate Forbes, alongside over a hundred community members celebrating the revival of a lost craft.

Celebrating the rebirth of whisky production in The Cabrach.

A Historic Beginning

The Cabrach, widely recognized as a significant birthplace of malt whisky, was once home to three distilleries thriving under legal production laws established in 1823. Recent efforts have breathed life back into this once vibrant area, with the inauguration of the new Cabrach Distillery taking place at Inverharroch Farm, situated within lovingly restored 19th-century stone steadings. This restoration is more than just an indulgence in nostalgia; it aims to serve the local community through a comprehensive regeneration plan spearheaded by The Cabrach Trust.

During the festive occasion, Kate Forbes had the distinct honor of being present for the first distillation, symbolizing an important milestone for the distillery. She walked through the distillery stillhouse while the new spirit flowed through the spirit safe, and later delivered a compelling speech in the dunnage warehouse emphasizing the bravery and transformative potential of this project for the community.

“The Cabrach Distillery represents a landmark milestone in our journey to revive the lost spirit of The Cabrach,” reflected Jonathan Christie, Chief Executive Officer of The Cabrach Trust. “This is a project that will serve as the economic lungs of our regeneration vision for this special place, attracting thousands of visitors captivated by the incredible history and timeless landscapes of The Cabrach.”

The Power of Community Impact

The Cabrach Trust, established in 2013, has played an instrumental role in the resurgence of the local whisky industry. Grant Gordon OBE, the founder and chair, expressed his pride and commitment to revive a place that has seen decades of neglect. By mobilizing community support and fostering membership to the trust, this distillery offers an opportunity to celebrate and sustain the cultural heritage of The Cabrach.

The distillery is not just about whisky; it aims to create a wider visitor experience, with plans for a bistro and a heritage center that back the vibrant narrative of this Scottish enclave. As Deputy First Minister Forbes mentioned, “Today’s ceremony signals the start of a new chapter for The Cabrach and its ambitions to be a leading example of community-led, rural regeneration.”

Quaint landscapes of The Cabrach area, home to the new distillery.

Future Aspirations

The Cabrach Distillery will focus on producing handcrafted single malt Scotch whisky, with all profits channeled back into the community. Thanks to funding from the Just Transition Fund—initiated by the Scottish Government to stimulate job creation and support innovation across the region—this project is well-equipped to make lasting contributions to the economy.

It’s an endeavor that speaks to not only reviving local whisky production but also restoring the very spirit of a community that has long been overshadowed by decline. With its promising future and commitment to heritage, the Cabrach Distillery could become a pillar for the resurgence of whisky in Scotland and a beacon for community regeneration across the country.

In conclusion, the reopening of whisky production in The Cabrach underscores a moment of hope and renewal, not just for local distillation but for the cultural revival of a community. The world of whisky welcomes The Cabrach Distillery back into the fold, and enthusiasts are already looking forward to the stories, flavors, and experiences that will emerge from this remarkable project for years to come.