Will an Old Oil Depot Change into a Brand New Whisky Distillery Soon?

Thursday, 29 January 2026 at 17:22

What do an abandoned oil depot and whisky have in common? Soon, potentially a great deal. A proposal has been submitted to build a brand-new distillery on a former oil depot. Could a fresh new Scottish whisky be born here?

The Scottish firm Organic Architects has officially applied for permission to transform a unique site. An old oil tank on the pier at Ardrishaig, Scotland, is set to become a craft whisky distillery with visitor facilities.

What kind of distillery is planned for Ardrishaig?

Organic Architects’ submission outlines an extensive vision for the distillery. Of course, it will house the stills and production equipment, but there’s much more in store.

The plans include a detailed design showcasing the future distillery. It’s immediately clear the site isn’t just about tours and production, it aims to deliver a complete whisky experience. John Moore, founder of Ardrishaig Distillery, underscores the ambition.

'Our goal is to turn the site within Ardrishaig into something the village can be proud of – a distillery known around the world for its craft and the experience it offers visitors. With the help of Organic Architects, we’ve been able to bring that same care and attention to the design of the distillery. We don’t just want people to see how we make it – we want them to understand why we do things the way we do, and how that helps us produce a spirit that’s consistent and high in quality.'

- John Moore

The distillery’s design draws inspiration from Ardrishaig’s maritime heritage. Beyond the large stills and other distilling equipment, the plans feature a courtyard and a public space with views over Loch Gorm.

The site is intended to be easily accessible by both road and water, meaning visitors from Islay and Campbeltown could drop in on this new whisky maker with ease.

From dereliction to whisky destination

Redeveloping the site would deliver a double win for the area, ending years of vacancy while breathing new life into a contaminated plot.

The project could also provide a significant boost to the local economy and regional tourism. And it’s no coincidence the distillery is planned for this very spot.

Ardrishaig has a historic connection to whisky production. The village once had its own distillery, Glenfyne, which closed in 1937. This new distillery could mark the return of whisky-making to the community.

The planning application has been submitted to Argyll and Bute Council, with a decision expected later this year. If approved, the project could create new jobs and deliver a lasting lift for the region.