From seed to spirit: Whisky distillery in Hawick works with Scottish Borders’ farmers
The two worlds of farming and whisky production have been brought together for an environmentally-friendly way of working in the Scottish Borders.
Not only does it help the Borders Distillery – the first in the region since 1837 – in its race to zero waste but also ensures reliability for the quality of its ingredients.
Tracing produce, from seed to spirit, is important for The Borders Distillery whose Growers & Distillers programme has been helped by Simpsons Malt Ltd. The partnership bonds the worlds of farming and whisky-making together, so that both growers and distillers can work towards producing the best that Borders land has to offer.
See the map on their website to see where their barley comes from.
Their cooling water originates from the River Teviot – a lifeline that runs through the town – and a water source beneath the distillery provides fresh, natural supplies for the distilling process.
Proud of their heritage
The Borders Distillery, which opened in 2018, is proud to bring back a key part of Scotland’s heritage to the area.
Borders Head of Marketing, Kirsten Blackburn, explains: “We are taking ownership of the quality of the products in our whisky and using Borders’ barley for Borders’ spirit, working exclusively with local farmers.”
She adds: “We want to support the community by bringing distilling back to the region and help boost the local economy.”
Summer distillery tours
While the distillery is open throughout the year, visitors are welcome for special summer tours to look around the renovated Victorian building and its modern distillery which produces a world-class spirit.
From now until October 28, tours are available from Monday to Saturday at 11am, 1pm and 3pm – click here to book your place.
From just £20, tours of the award-winning distillery will be guided by their very own distillers who will show you the workings. Tours can accommodate up to a dozen guests and under-18s are welcome free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
The distillery is not just about whisky but also uses its spirit to produce vodka and gin. So whatever your favourite tipple, you will have the chance to enjoy a great Scottish Borders product.
Kirsten enjoys telling their exciting story to visitors. She adds: “We love welcoming everyone from whisky enthusiasts to those who are discovering Scotch for the first time, as well as history lovers or visitors who just want a good day out in the beautiful Scottish Borders.”
Book now
To book a tour or for more information, visit The Borders Distillery website