Construction begins on The Macallan distillery

Edrington has begun work on the new £100 million distillery for The Macallan in Speyside, which is due to open in spring 2017.

Work has now begun on The Macallan’s new “Teletubby-style” distillery

The project will enable the Scotch whisky brand to “significantly increase” its production output to meet consumer demand.

Edrington intends to move production of The Macallan from its existing site in Speyside to the new facility, mothballing its current home. However it is unclear when the existing site will be closed.

To mark the start of works on the new “Teletubby-style” distillery, Edrington CEO Ian Curle officially turned the sod with Bill Robertson, executive chairman of Robertson and Graham Stirk, partner of architects Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners.

Curle said: “Today represents an exciting new chapter for Edrington and a major step in The Macallan’s long term commitment to be the leading premium spirit in the world.

“Over the next three years we will bring The Macallan brand experience to life in a truly unique style.”

The distillery itself has been designed to complement the surrounding area with a grass-covered undulating roof reminiscent of the hills that were home to childrens’ favourites The Teletubbys.

The site will also be sympathetic to the natural environment by being powered by a biomass plant in Craigellachie.

Graham Stirk, lead architect and Partner, RSHP, said: “Our design for the distillery and visitor centre celebrates the whisky-making process as well as the environment that has inspired it.

“Together we are creating a bespoke building for The Macallan that will further enhance the visitor experience whilst ensuring the on-going quality of this unique single malt.”

Edrington revealed plans to build a new distillery in November last year.