Scotland is globally recognised as the birthplace of whisky. The first record is from 1494 when Friar John Corr used malt to make a spirit he called ‘aqua vitae’, ‘the water of life’. Over the following centuries the Scots crafted the spirit, developing ingenious techniques of distillation and maturation. They perfected and popularised what was to become famously known as Scotch. We find out more about Lerwick Distillery in its quest to create a unique new Scotch from Scotland’s most northerly isles. Best Emerging Whisky Brand 2025 Lerwick Distillery is set to be Shetland’s first, and the World’s Most Northerly Scotch Whisky Distillery. The business was founded in 2022 by Shetlanders, Martin Watt and Calum Miller with a vision to realise a Shetland dram. They are scheduled to go fully operational in 2026, and on a profound journey to crafting Shetland Single Malt Scotch Whisky. At 60º North the location is absolutely unique to the making of Scotch. Shetland is a remote outpost where the North Atlantic Drift rewards with a low temperature differential, an Oceanic sub-Arctic climate, with long mild winters and short cool summers. An average wind speed of 14.7 knots and constant natural ventilation of salty sea air provide the perfect climate for whisky maturation. Rare Paleozoic rock springs and windswept lochs are abundant with the highest quality water in purity and PH level. In terms of ingredients, the Distillery is also exploring the opportunity to utilise homegrown barley sourced from local crofters. Shetland combines a fascinating blend of Nordic and Scots culture. The Vikings settled in 850ad, and to this day the Scandinavian influence is strong. Shetlanders combine earthy Scottish congeniality with a warm Norse character, and speak a poetic dialect rooted in an ancient language called ‘NØRN’ Europe’s largest fire festival, the legendary ‘Up Helly Aa’, takes place every January, with feasting, drinking, a torchlit procession and the burning of a Viking Longship. With many festivals, spectacular scenery and a pristine environment, tourism thrives with around 150,000 visitors and 150 cruise ships every year. The distillery is located at the heart of Lerwick and has already become one of Shetland’s most popular attractions. In 2023, in what was to be pure serendipity, founder Martin Watt met Ian Millar. To describe Ian as a legend in the Whisky Industry is an understatement, having over 50 years with leading Scotch Whisky brands. Since 1998 he’d managed William Grant & Sons three malt distilleries: Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie, going on to become a global ambassador. In 2023 Ian was at the point of retirement from his esteemed full-time career, overseeing, maintaining and finessing world class whiskies, and only something truly remarkable could freshly inspire him. The vision for Lerwick Distillery was that in barrels. Ultimately Ian’s role is that of custodian of a truly original new Scotch, one that not only embodies Shetland spirit but may also define an entirely new region for Scotch. Consequently Lerwick Distillery combines the Founder’s independent artisan spirit, enriched by Ian’s well of expertise, insight, and wisdom. The perfect balance, the freedom of a clean slate, paired with the reassurance of seasoned hands. Building Lerwick Distillery has involved meticulous planning and attention to detail. Every piece of equipment carefully chosen including two magnificent 4,000 litre stills manufactured to absolute, traditional Scottish standards. The distillery serves two purposes; to make whisky whilst welcoming visitors who will, in turn, become friends and proud advocates of the brand. There is ample room for visitor tours, a fine tasting room and a well-curated whisky and gift shop. For its commitment to creating a truly great and unique product utilising the natural environment which surrounds it, Lerwick Distillery celebrated success in the Scottish Enterprise Awards 2025 and was named Best Emerging Whisky Brand 2025. The future looks very promising for Lerwick Distillery. With a unique location and heritage, and a renowned Master Distiller at the helm they are on a profound journey to craft a premium product that carries the name ‘Shetland’, establishing itself firmly in the global spirits industry. Contact Details Contact: Jordan Thomason Company: Lerwick Distillery Web Address: www.shetlandwhisky.com
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