Mark and I have over 40 years experience in the Scotch Whisky industry between us and, after many years of working for other people, we decided the time was right to start our own independent bottling company. This was in December 2019. A few months later we were seriously questioning the timing of our new venture! However, despite the challenging circumstances (to global pandemic, add a new baby and impending Brexit), we are absolutely delighted with how things are going so far.

After an incredibly successful Crowdfunder campaign in April 2020, we bottled our first cask (for Crowdfunders only) a few months later, followed by our first general release of 5 casks in September 2020. We’ve bottled a total of 26 casks in our first year covering single malt, blended malt, single grain, blend, rums and Indian whisky (our first non-scotch whisky) and hope to expand on our offering over time. Basically, as long as it tastes good and has spent time in a cask, then we’ll happily bottle it.

Campbeltown, as many whisky fans will know, has a rich distilling heritage. Once home to over 35 distilleries, there are now 3 continuing this great tradition. Despite the vast numbers of distilleries that have been established here over the years, to our knowledge there has never been an independent bottler established in the town (Cadenhead’s moved here in 1972 from Aberdeen), until now anyway.

We’ve chosen Campbeltown as a base, not just because of its great whisky heritage but also because it’s our home! By setting up our business here, we hope to add to the already impressive whisky offering for visitors and to contribute to the local community and economy. Campbeltown has a thriving town centre and is very much on the up after an extensive town centre regeneration scheme. This was recognised when it was named ‘Scotland’s Most Improved Place’ at the recent SURF (Scotland’s Urban Regeneration Forum) Awards.

If you’re planning a visit, do check out Explore Campbeltown, the Kintyre 66and the Discover Campbeltown app on Apple and Android. We’re not open to the public just yet but we may be able to accommodate private groups if given enough notice. We look forward to seeing you in Campbeltown sometime soon.

Slainte
Kate & Mark Watt
July 2021