Whisky distilling has come roaring back to life on the banks of the River Clyde after more than 100 years, creating two dozen jobs in the process.
Sandwiched in between the Riverside Museum and SSE Hydro, The Clydeside Distillery has today opened its doors to the public after five years in the making.
Sitting on the site formerly known as The Queen’s Dock - once the beating heart of Glasgow’s shipping industry - The Pump House, with its iconic clock tower, now holds a five-star visitor centre with shop, café, and interactive whisky experience.
Two copper stills, each weighing around two tonnes, have taken pride of place and are set to produce a high-quality Lowland single malt Scotch whisky.
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As previosuly reported by The Herald, Scottish Enterprise backed the scheme, which was developed by a group of industry experts.
Glasgow’s links to the whisky industry have been brought to life through words, pictures, and film as visitors make their way through 140 years of history as part of a self-led and guided tour.
The Pump House once controlled entry into The Queen’s Dock, one of the city’s most famous shipping ports built by Morrison and Mason in 1877.
This ensured Customs and Excise could keep a close eye on goods in and out, including Scotch whisky.
Owned by Morrison Glasgow Distillers Ltd, The Clydeside Distillery’s chairman, Tim Morrison, is the great grandson of John Morrison, who originally built The Queen’s Dock in 1877.
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Tim, formerly of Morrison Bowmore Distillers, is current proprietor of the AD Rattray Scotch Whisky Company.
Tim hailed today as being “an exciting day for Glasgow and the Scotch whisky industry.”
He said: “After more than a century, copper stills are producing spirit on the banks of the Clyde and we’re incredibly proud to be able to open our doors to the public.
“Glasgow has an affinity with Scotch whisky unlike any other city in the world with The Queen’s Dock previously witnessing the exports of whisky with ships sailing past the Pump House destined for all continents of the world.
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“Of course, for me and my family, there is a very personal link knowing that my great grandfather built The Queen’s Dock where The Clydeside Distillery now sits.
“We’re looking forward to the future and seeing whisky produced in the heart of Glasgow once again.”
Around 25 jobs have been created at distillery with manager Alistair McDonald using over 30 years of knowledge and experience to oversee all aspects of whisky production.
The distillery is also capable of hosting a variety of events, from wedding receptions to corporate drinks functions and dinners.
The tasting room, located on the mezzanine level, opens up to create a bespoke space for between 40 to 200 guests.
For more information, visit theclydeside.com.
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