Whisky is being distilled in Stirling for the first time in 171 years

Stirling Distillery has announced they have begun production of their own new-make whisky, making history for the city of Stirling.

Whisky hasn’t been distilled in the city since 1852 when the original Stirling Distillery closed its doors. The first brewing mash took place on Tuesday 3rd October 2023 with the first gravity reading taken that evening. The delicate distilling process will see craft small batch runs over the next few months as the distilling team develop the whisky’s unique gentle lowland flavour.

The distillery began their whisky journey with the launch of their Sons of Scotland independent bottling range which was launched in 2021. The limited edition collection celebrates the history of Stirlingshire’s rich whisky making heritage with whiskies drawn from different regions of Scotland; the Highlands, Speyside, the Lowlands, and the Islands.

Stirling Distillery opened in 2019 focusing solely on gin, with the intention of moving into whisky as the business grew. They have won countless awards as a visitor attraction and for their range of gins.

Distillery co-founder Cameron McCann spoke about the distillery’s whisky process:

“For us, the essential elements in creating a truly special whisky are simple; from using only the best water, yeast and malted barley to the care that goes into hand selecting the best quality casks. This will develop the rich flavours. We’re excited to be embarking on this whisky journey”.

The first releases of Stirling whisky will be ready in late 2026, and will be followed by their VI Casks for King James limited edition six bottle set. These rare bottles - with only 300 available - will be released biannually over three years. By purchasing a set, whisky enthusiasts will join the distillery’s Cask Club, giving them first refusal on all limited and first release whiskies along with other member benefits.