The international architectural practice NORR has been appointed by Moray-based Speymalt Whisky Distributors to design a multi-million-pound distillery it plans to build near Grantown.
The managing director of family-owned Speymalt, which trades as Gordon and MacPhail (G&M), said the firm had been “hugely impressed” by the architects’ track record in the industry.
NORR, which has offices in Inverness and Aberdeen, worked on the expansion of the Glenlivet and Glenfiddich distilleries, and on new-build projects at Dalmunach, in Speyside, and Ardross, Ross-shire.
Elgin-based Speymalt, which also owns Benromach Distillery in Forres, announced its proposed development at Craggan, close to the River Spey, last month.
It will hold consultation events in the area, which is in the Cairngorms National Park, before submitting a planning application later this year.
Speymalt and G&M managing director Ewen Mackintosh said: “We were hugely impressed by NORR’s expertise in this sector.
“They appreciate the importance of ensuring the distillery sits well within the outstanding landscape of the Cairngorms National Park.
“They have also worked for some of the biggest and smallest companies in the industry and really understand the particular requirements for a distillery.”
He added: “The waters of the River Spey are not only synonymous with the whisky industry in this area, but attract anglers from across the world and we know how important it is to ensure there is no impact during the construction phase.
“NORR has worked on a number of projects on the banks of the Spey and its team are well aware of the issues and challenges.
“They have consistently demonstrated their ability to manage this aspect of the work without compromise.”
Inverness-based NORR director Mark Fresson said: “The site has huge potential to provide a contemporary building that represents the values and aspirations of Speymalt and provides a fitting gateway distillery to Speyside on a truly inspiring site.”
If planning permission is granted, Speymalt hopes to start the year-long project in 2019.
The independent bottler and distiller expects its new distillery to become a major tourist attraction and significant local employer.
