Lindores Abbey Distillery Nears Completion

Lindores Abbey, one of the Scotch whisky industry’s most historic locations, is set to open a new distillery and visitor centre this summer.

The long-held dream for Drew and Helen McKenzie Smith, is set to become a reality, and bring whisky back to the site next to Lindores Abbey, where whisky production dates back 500 years. The plan for this ambitious £6 million project crystallised about four years ago when, with funding support from Fife Council’s Investment Fund, Drew and Helen undertook a feasibility study.

Drew McKenzie Smith said: L “Supported by Fife Council Economic Development, we were grateful to receive 50 per cent funding towards the initial feasibility study, which was vital to kick-start the process. We’ve also received Expert Help from Business Gateway Fife, which has enabled us to move forward at the correct pace as and when required.”

Assistance with accounting advice, as well as some early input for time lapse cameras, and on-going advice about exporting, HR and Health and Safety has all been accessed through Business Gateway Fife.

Drew added: “Being a distillery and about to employ around 15 people, HR and Health and Safety are very important areas, which we are delighted to receive advice through the Expert Help Programme from our business advisor, Lynne Baillie. We are also being advised and assisted in relation to exhibiting at trade events and with staff training.”