The Cairn Distillery reaches new heights with topping out ceremony

Topic Contracts

Date 23 Jun 2022

Morrison Construction celebrated a traditional topping out ceremony for The Cairn Distillery at Grantown-on-Spey with clients Gordon and MacPhail.

Paying homage to Gordon and MacPhail’s first distillery at Forres, a bottle of Benromach whisky was placed in a cavity in the stonework by AB Masonry first year apprentice and Distillery Manager to commemorate the completion of the external structure.

The Cairn Distillery is set to become a major tourist attraction for visitors and will include whisky tasting rooms, a visitor centre with retail space and a coffee shop, while overlooking the beautiful River Spey towards the Cairngorms.

The new distillery features a sedum green roof which was recently installed to create a thriving eco-friendly habitat and blend into the surrounding environment.

Hugh MacKay, first year apprentice AB Masonry commented: “It’s been great to be involved in a project of this size in my first year and I have really enjoyed being part of the team constructing such a unique building. I can’t wait to see what the whisky is like in many years’ time.”

Mhairi Winter, Distillery Manager said: “It’s wonderful to take part in this traditional ceremony which dates back so many centuries. And it marks another milestone as we move towards completion, ready to open later in the year.”

Donald McLachlan, Managing Director of Morrison Construction Highland said: “We are delighted to celebrate this milestone for The Cairn Distillery. It will be a great asset to the Grantown-on-Spey area and will create a memorable destination for the community.”