Update: May 25th 2023
In 2013 I began progressing the reinstatement of whisky distilling at Dingwall on my farm and GlenWyvis Distillery formed as a farm diversification project.
In June 2023 I will be telling my story of the first 10 years of the project I started and why I chose to sell to a new landlord
An update from GlenWyvis Distillery Founder and DWDT by John F Mckenzie
"In 2013 I proceeded with my idea of founding a distillery at my farm overlooking Dingwall, building on the vast history of distilling in the area. GlenWyvis was created through my family links at Evanton and Dingwall, the distillery opened 5 years ago. Like many towns Dingwall has suffered from shop closures as people purchase products online. With the mart already moved out of Dingwall the project ethos was that the new distillery would be community owned, run and managed by those living within the local community with the golden egg being the planned visitor centre designed beside the original Ferintosh/Ben Wyvis distillery at the entrance to Dingwall-a cinema, restaurant, shop and tasting/event rooms were planned. It is envisioned that links from the town visitor centre to the farm distillery would progress. Risks around documented Highland planning issues were highlighted to potential investors in the project.
Investment in the distillery remains primarily for social and environmental reasons including my own.
The distillery recently released its first single malt.
In 2021 the Dingwall Whisky Distillery Trust was established by me to ensure local oversight of the land GlenWyvis Distillery and its Warehouses are tenants of.
As founder of GlenWyvis Distillery and DWDT I have decided that the time is right to pass on the responsibility and legacy of the unique position of owning the farm and being landlord to the distillery. I know there are many passionate whisky enthusiasts who will enjoy becoming involved in developing projects.
It is hoped that a buyer will be found who will continue my work, building links within the local area around innovation and green energy, perhaps even bringing the first electric hillside tram to Scotland!
As landlord to GlenWyvis Distillery the new owner will have various responsibilities and attend all distillery committee meetings.
A detailed pack (with lease documents and farm financials) is available through agents by completing the form below who will provide further information.
Expressions of Interest