Subject to receiving planning consent, work on the parkland estate project will begin in autumn 2014 and is due to be completed in spring 2017.
Macallan’s sales are expected to exceed one million cases this year, and while future growth is expected, Edrington’s Public Affairs Director Gerry O’Donnell told Drinks International that it was too early in the planning process to disclose what the capacity of the distillery might be.
He said: “Malt whisky continues to grow strongly and Macallan is a brand that cannot currently meet demand. This new distillery will allow us to meet future demand.”
Ian Curle, chief executive of Edrington said: “Our plan for the estate includes a contemporary distillery that embodies the international style of The Macallan and builds on the brand’s tradition of quality and craftsmanship.
“As this long-term investment develops it will bring significant employment and economic benefit to the local community.”
Ken Grier, Edrington’s director of malts said: “The proposal from [architect] Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners will retain the integrity and importance of Easter Elchies House and the estate in the future.”
