Scottish producer Gin Bothy has unveiled more detailed plans for its new whisky distillery, set within a historic sporting estate in Glen Prosen, Angus which is owned by Forestry and Land Scotland. The estate once formed part of a whisky smuggling route in the 19th century. A planning application has been submitted to faithfully revitalise the site, with the project aiming to drive rural economic regeneration and foster community engagement.
Gin Bothy is one of Scotland’s most award-winning craft gin producers and was included in the 2024 Oscar Nominees official gift bags. Founded by Kim Cameron, the distillery marks an exciting new chapter for the Angus-based brand as it expands into whisky distillation.
The project will create local employment opportunities while preserving the rich heritage of the site. Community engagement is a key priority, with plans to collaborate with local suppliers and businesses to ensure the distillery becomes an asset to the region.
Designed by sustainable distillery design specialists, Organic Architects, the new distillery will repurpose a steading that was previously used for storage and garages by Forestry and Land Scotland. The new design makes the most of the existing structure, only making external alterations where necessary and preserving the understated look of the building.
Bari Reid, Director at Organic Architects, said:
“It has been great to work with Gin Bothy on this unique project, bringing new life to a historic site and learning more about the fascinating history of whisky smuggling in the area. Our approach focuses on preserving the character of the original building, ensuring the distillery seamlessly blends into its mountainous surroundings. We aimed to create a space that not only produces exceptional whisky for Gin Bothy’s first venture into Scotch but also nestles into the local landscape and community.”
Kim Cameron, Director and Founder of Gin Bothy, said:
“This is an exciting milestone for Bothy Trading as we take our passion for Scottish spirits and local produce into whisky production. The history of the site, once part of an old whisky smuggling route, makes this project even more special. Working with Organic Architects, we are committed to revitalising this incredible location with care and purpose to create a distillery that honours the past, brings legal distilling to the area, and supports the future of our rural community.”
To minimise the environmental and traffic impact, the distillery will be open by appointment only, ensuring a tailored experience for visitors. The Bothy Distillery will offer an “immersive whisky retreat” experience and has been designed with sustainability in mind, running on hydroelectricity and using sustainable waste removal processes.
With the visitor centre set to welcome guests in July and production commencing in August to produce 300 casks in its first year, the distillery is on track to become a new landmark in Scotland’s whisky landscape.
