Isle of Raasay Distillery is expanding its facilities in advance of the launch of its first single malt whisky next year.
A bottling operation is being developed, along with additional warehousing, at the site on the small island off Skye.
The distillery’s owner, R&B Distillers, has been awarded funding of up to £200,000 by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards costs of the work.
Distillery co-founder Alasdair Day said: “This support from HIE for new warehouses and bottling facilities will ensure that every drop of our spirit is matured and bottled locally while, crucially, supporting local island jobs in what is deemed a fragile rural economy.
“Already, over 10% of the local population work at the distillery, and with HIE’s support, we hope to create more opportunities to live and work on Raasay.”
HIE Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross business growth account manager Eilidh Ross said: “The Isle of Raasay Distillery is already an important contributor to this growth sector.
“By creating valuable rural employment, the company is also helping strengthen community resilience on the island.”
Spirit production began in 2017 at the distillery, which also has a six-bedroom hotel and award-winning visitor centre.
