A new and unique whisky business has opened its doors at the gateway to St Andrews, promising to offer something truly different in the world of Scotch Whisky and Premium Spirits as a whole.
The founders of Patron Saint believe that despite recent sharp decline in share price for companies like LVMH and Diageo and some profit warnings from the big players, there is plenty of opportunity and lots to be positive about in the sector as consumers move to drinking less but better.
“As well as treating themselves to a cup of barista made coffee each morning drinkers are also seeking to enjoy and deepen their understating of the relaxing premium spirits treat they are enjoying at the end of the day”.
Premium spirits globally are projected to grow at over 9.7% CAGR to 2030 to a value of $409 billion and Premium Whisk(e)y likewise forecasted to grow at 6% CAGR to 2030 to a value of $114 billion. The increasing number of exciting innovative new distilleries and increases in ‘Scotch’ production levels of the past few years means it is well placed to take advantage of this ‘high end’ growth opportunity.
Patron Saint, as a super-premium independent bottler of fine whisky and spirits with its unique location, aims to play its part in this.
It intends to be much more than an independent bottler. The business is built on a philosophy of collaboration, creativity, and a deep respect for the craft of whisky making and most importantly a desire to share this.
The Patron Saint team aims to enhance the growing reputation of Scottish Whisky makers by showcasing innovative techniques, exciting mash bills and lesser-known expressions of whisky.
Who’s Behind It?
Patron Saint is led by a group of passionate local entrepreneurs and whisky lovers:
• David Hamilton – serial entrepreneur and philanthropist across a range of local enterprises
• Campbell Archibald – whisky industry enthusiast, founder of Angus Alchemy
• Aidan Muir – Passionate whisky industry professional
• Michael Johnston – developer and owner of Avalon Business Park
As the business grows, the founders plan to expand the team, aiming to create 10 full-time equivalent jobs by 2027 with the potential for a small boutique distillery.
What Makes Patron Saint Different?
While Fife and Tayside are already home to several outstanding new distilleries, Patron Saint sets itself apart as primarily a curator and developer of exceptional whisky originally initiated by others. As an independent bottler, the company is uniquely positioned to blend, finish, and release special expressions from a variety of sources.
“Think of us as the editors and publishers, rather than the authors, enhancing already great works into something truly unique and reaching a global audience.”
Some highlights of the approach include:
• Collaborative releases
• Creative cask finishes
• Innovative maturation techniques
• A renewed focus on the ‘art of the blend’
• Experimentation with differentiated mash bills
The current collaboration whisky with the British and Irish Lions and Fife in Independent Bottlers is a great example of collaboration across 6 distilleries and producers.
A Whisky experience unlike any other is what Patron Saint aims to offer visitors. Something personal and immersive and far beyond the standard tour. With exclusive access, guided tastings, and a behind the scenes look at the craft, the experience will be tailored for the curious, the connoisseur, and those looking for something truly special.
“We hope to take the whisky visitor experience to a new level for whisky lovers’, we prefer to think of it as a bespoke, memorable journey for the discerning and adventurous.”
Looking Ahead: A ‘Boutique Distillery’
Is on the cards within the next two years as the team plans to establish a small-scale distillery onsite, producing around five casks per week. These micro-batches will reflect the same care, quality, and originality that defines the brand, adding yet another layer to the Patron Saint experience.
Importantly, the team is focused not on own volume, but on contributing meaningfully to the local whisky scene and attracting visitors to discover all the region has to offer.
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The initial investment will be in the region of £3m for a mixture of ‘state of the art’ cask management systems, whisky stock, bottling and technical equipment. Future distillery investment will be of a similar level.
