The “spiritual home” of Scotch whisky is set to reopen, more than half a century after the first drop was distilled.
Newburgh’s Lindores Abbey is widely regarded as the spiritual home of our national drink through its association with Friar John Cor, who in 1494 paid duty on malt in order to make aqua vitae for King James IV.
This recognition in the Exchequer Roll makes it the first written evidence of whisky distillation in Scotland.
Now land and estate experts Bell Ingram have been appointed to help to bring the abbey and surrounding area back to life through the creation of a whisky distillery and visitor experience.
The abbey is a ruin but a share of the proceeds raised from the project will be directed towards the preservation of this significant historic monument.
Director Iain Cram said the project is of great significance as he believes it will become a top destination for whisky lovers.
Leading whisky expert Dr Jim Swan has been commissioned to create a Lowland single malt.