Our story
The first Scotch Whisky Distillery in the Scottish Borders since 1837
Using locally grown barley, mineral rich water and a team made of industrious spirit, we’re bringing Scotch Whisky back to the Borders. In Scotlands rarest whisky producing region, we wait patiently for the arrival of our very own Single Malt.
Our distillery opened in March 2018 – the first Scotch Whisky distillery in the Scottish Borders since 1837. We’re dedicated to capturing the true spirit of the Borders, and bringing whisky-making back to the region.
Our hometown of Hawick has a famous history of manufacturing – it’s where cashmere is king and where tweed was invented. There is a spirit of invention and enterprise in the town that inspires us in everything we do.
Our PEOPLE
There are three ingredients in Scotch whisky, but we have one more…
At the heart of The Borders Distillery are the people who bring it to life every day. From the still house to the visitor centre, every member of our crew plays a part in sharing the spirit of this place.
Some of us were born and raised in the Borders, others have chosen to make it their home, but all of us are bound by a shared passion for creating whisky that reflects the character of this remarkable region for the first time in over 180 years.
Our water
Seventeen metres below the distillery lies a natural aquifer, supplying the mineral-rich water we use to create our spirit. Filtered naturally through layers of rock over countless years, it’s a resource that’s been part of the Borders landscape long before we arrived.
Water plays a role at every stage of whisky-making. It’s used to mash our locally grown barley, helping unlock the sugars that become the foundation of our spirit. We also draw cooling water from the neighbouring River Teviot before safely returning it, ensuring we work in harmony with the landscape that gives us so much.
Our Growers
100% of our barley comes from within 35 miles of our distillery.
We work with 10 local farmers and Simpsons Malt through our Borders Growers & Distillers group. Ensuring full traceability, from seed to spirit. All of our draff also goes back to local agriculture.
This circular approach ensures we look after our local people and our corner of Scotland.
Our home
Hawick is our home. We sit right in the heart of the Scottish Borders, and it’s a town with a big personality. It’s where cashmere is king and tweed was invented.
Known for its world-famous fashion industry, rugby pride, and a calendar full of festivals, Hawick has always been a place where tradition and community run deep.
The River Teviot winds through the town, adding a touch of charm to the bustling high street, cosy pubs, and warm Borders welcome. And while whisky-making took a wee break here for more than 180 years, we’re proud to bring it back.
A town that loves its heritage but isn’t afraid of a fresh start, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Visit our brand home
Discover how we make our award-winning spirits in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Using locally grown barley, mineral rich water and a team made of industrious spirit, we’re bringing Scotch Whisky back to the Borders for the first time since 1837.
Distillery faqs
When was the borders distillery founded?
We were founded in 2013 by a group of friends, all veterans of the Scotch whisky industry, who saw something missing – no distillery in the Borders.
In 2018, spirit flowed again for the first time in the region since 1837.
What is the borders growers and distillers program?
It’s how we keep things local and circular.
We work directly with 10 local farms and Simpsons Malt to grow our barley, and in return, by-products from distilling go back to those farms to generate energy and nutrients. It’s about quality, sustainability, and backing our community at every step.
Does the borders distillery offer tours?
We run guided tours where you’ll see the full process, hear the stories, and (most importantly) taste the results, guided by our distillers themselves. Whether you’re deep into whisky or just curious, you’ll be right at home.
Where is the borders distillery?
The Borders Distillery is based in Hawick, in the Scottish Borders. We’re the first Scotch whisky distillery in the region since 1837, making us a must-visit for anyone exploring whisky in the south of Scotland.
What spirits do you produce?
At our Hawick distillery, we produce Scotch whisky, as well as gin and vodka. All are made using Borders-grown barley and crafted on-site using traditional distilling methods with a modern edge.
can i own a cask of borders whisky?
We offer a private cask programme that allows you to own a cask from The Borders Distillery. It’s a unique opportunity to be part of the modern history of Scotch whisky in the Scottish Borders.
BOTTLE A PIECE OF HISTORY
1837 Private Casks
Become the owner of your very own cask. Watch your cask mature Borders malted barley spirit into Single Malt Scotch Whisky through the 1837 App, and share the joy of cask ownership with your friends and family.
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