Silent Dallas Dhu distillery to reopen
After ceasing production in 1983, Scotch whisky distillery Dallas Dhu will reopen under new management.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) confirmed that Speyside distillery Dallas Dhu in Moray will reopen, nearly a decade after the government agency first looked at the feasibility of restarting production at the site. The government was exploring investment opportunities in 2018 to bring the facility back to life.
Aceo Distillers Company will take over the management of distillery operations, while HES will retain guardianship of the site.
Aceo will implement a phased approach to operational improvements, including bonded warehousing facilities and the eventual reintroduction of whisky production.
In addition, the visitor experience will offer tours focusing on the story of Scotch whisky and Speyside production.
Edward Odim, managing director, Aceo, said: “Our vision is to make Dallas Dhu one of the leading, must-see whisky distilleries in Scotland, giving visitors a unique, close-up experience of whisky making.
“The aim is to breathe life back into the distillery by first getting the original equipment working and traditional whisky distilling going once again. This revived, long-lost spirit will be matured in Dallas Dhu’s well-preserved Victorian dunnage warehouses.
“Longer-term, the plan is for a state-of-the-art visitor centre with exhibition and museum space, and a café/restaurant, to be enjoyed by visitors and the local community. There will be a cooperage displaying the art of the cooper, a working malting floor and an interactive virtual reality whisky experience, that delves into the science behind Scotland’s famous spirit.”
Built by entrepreneur Alexander Edward in 1899, Dallas Dhu produced malt whisky for the popular Roderick Dhu blend for nearly a century. It has not produced whisky since 1983 when it closed due to water shortage, and the distillery was handed into state care a few years later.
Stephen Duncan, director of marketing and engagement at HES, added: “Dallas Dhu offers a unique opportunity to showcase traditional distilling techniques as a living history attraction.
“This reopening marks a new chapter for the distillery, and we are confident it will attract visitors, while also bringing benefits to the local community and economy.”
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