Aberdeen is set to reclaim its place on the whisky map with the granting of a planning application for the Bon Accord Distillery.
This new venture will rise on the historic site of the original Bon Accord Drinks factory on the iconic Greyhope Road, paying homage to the city’s rich heritage while paving the way for a dynamic future in whisky production.
The facility will not only produce high-quality single malt Scotch whisky but also act as a visitor attraction, drawing whisky lovers from across the globe to Aberdeen’s waterfront.
With guided tours, interactive exhibits, and tasting sessions planned, the distillery aims to offer an immersive experience that celebrates the craftsmanship and history behind Scotland’s national drink.
Davis Gonnella, brand director of Bon Accord Distillery, said: "We want Bon Accord Distillery to be a source of pride for Aberdonians. We’ll have a section of the distillery where local food businesses can come and sample their wares to visiting crowds, showcasing the best in North-east Scotland’s produce, as well as quality whisky made on site.”
The Bon Accord Distillery promises to be a landmark development for Aberdeen, a city historically steeped in brewing and distilling traditions.
The site on Greyhope Road, where generations of Aberdonians fondly recall the Bon Accord Drinks factory, will now be transformed into a state-of-the-art distillery, blending innovation with tradition.
The project seeks to honour the legacy of the Bon Accord name while contributing to the Highland region’s ever-evolving whisky industry.
The announcement has already generated excitement among locals and whisky enthusiasts alike. The planning application, approved earlier this month, outlines ambitious plans for the distillery’s design and operation.
"We are delighted to bring the Bon Accord name back to life in a way that reflects both Aberdeen’s storied past and its promising future," said Davis Gonnella.
"This project is about more than just whisky. It’s about creating a lasting legacy for the city, providing jobs, and contributing to the local economy.”
The new distillery will also be joining forces with well-known brewers Fierce Beer and Master Chef of Great Britain and Grampian Chef of the Year 2013 John Chomba, who comes on as managing director.
He said: "We are delighted to be involved in the new distillery, it will be a fantastic addition to the food and drink scene in Aberdeen. We've worked with Davis and the team over the last few years and it's great to be involved with the project, where we can contribute our experience from building up Fierce Beer, to help make this a success."
Fierce Beer is one of Scotland’s most award-winning breweries, the only brewery within city bounds and is currently steaming towards its 10th year in business.
The location on Greyhope Road is steeped in history, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the project. The original Bon Accord Drinks factory, a beloved institution for decades, played a key role in the city’s industrial and cultural heritage.
The new distillery will embrace this legacy, incorporating design elements that pay tribute to the city’s industrial sea-links, with floor to ceiling windows boasting a fantastic view of the harbour and incoming vessels.
The plans also highlight the project’s commitment to sustainability, an increasingly important aspect of modern whisky production. Renewable energy sources, efficient water usage, and innovative waste management solutions will all be integrated into the distillery’s operations, ensuring that Bon Accord Distillery sets an example for environmentally responsible whisky production.
The economic impact of the distillery is expected to be significant. In addition to creating jobs during the construction phase, the distillery will provide long-term employment opportunities once operational. The visitor centre, gift shop, and other facilities are also likely to benefit local businesses and boost tourism in the area, positioning Aberdeen as a must-visit destination for whisky aficionados.
"Aberdeen has always been a city of innovation and resilience," added Davis. “With Bon Accord Distillery beginning building work in summer of this year, we hope to capture that spirit and share it with the world, one dram at a time."
As whisky lovers eagerly await the first casks to be laid down at Bon Accord Distillery, the granting of this planning application marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Aberdeen.