North Uist Distillery – From Concept to Commissioning in the Outer Hebrides

Client: North Uist Distillery Ltd.
Location: Nunton Steadings, Outer Hebrides

Overview
Located on the remote island of North Uist, this independently owned distillery is a standout example of modern Scottish distilling rooted in heritage and place. Allen Associates was engaged to deliver the full process design and distillery package supply of the core distilling areas — helping bring a bold vision to life in one of Scotland’s most distinctive landscapes.

Objectives

• Develop a full process concept for a new malt whisky distillery aligned with local traditions and sustainability goals.
• Provide full design and package supply for the mash house, tun room, and still house.
• Support the client from early-stage feasibility and cost planning including value engineering, through to installation and commissioning.

Approach

Allen Associates provided end-to-end engineering, equipment, and support, including:

• Concept Design & Layout Development: Worked with the client to define capacity, batch size, and site layout — with particular attention to aesthetics, flow, and utility access in a constrained location.
• Detailed Process Design: Completed full design and specification for mashing, fermentation, and distillation, incorporating value-engineered solutions to assist in budget planning.
• Equipment Supply
  Provided a complete process package covering:
  • Mash House – Including malt intake, milling integration, mash tun, and wort handling.
  • Tun Room – Stainless steel washbacks with CIP and cooling integration.
  • Still House – Traditional copper stills and condensers, supplied through the Forsyths Group, along with associated pipework and controls.
• Installation & Commissioning
  Managed site works and commissioning, including instrumentation calibration, process proving, and distillate cut control.

Outcomes

• The distillery is now operational, producing its own single malt on North Uist — a milestone for the island and a catalyst for local economic development.
• The process operates with reliability, delivering consistent spirit character from the outset.
• All systems were delivered and commissioned within agreed timelines despite the logistical complexities of an island location.

Client Value

Allen Associates delivered more than just technical expertise — we provided a comprehensive, turnkey solution that streamlined the project for North Uist Distillery.

By managing the full distillery package from design through to commissioning, we reduced capital costs for the client whilst still ensuring a robust, future-proof process. This project highlights our ability to offer value engineered, fully bespoke distilling systems that respect tradition, embrace innovation, and reflect the unique character of their location.