DEERNESS Distillery in Orkney has expanded its premises as it looks to celebrate the island’s rich food culture and bring the community together.
Known for its award-winning Sea Glass Gin, the Deerness Distillery expansion involves the opening of the new Dashing Deer Kitchen & Bar which overlooks the gorgeous Copinsay.
This is in addition to new fermentation tanks and mash runs that will be used in collaborations with local farmers to help source key ingredients for their Orkney whisky.
The distillery was first opened in 2016 by Stuart and Adelle Brown after moving to the island from Australia over a decade ago. Since then Stuart has taken on the role of chair of Orkney Food & Drink Regional Food Group.
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Stuart sees the new expansion as a showcase of local producers and an extension of the distillery’s initial mission to honour the resources of Orkney.
He said: “Collaborating with other Orkney producers is at the heart of our vision. The café’s evolving menu features ingredients from Orkney Food & Drink members, reflecting the island’s seasonal bounty.”
The excitement for this new venue is growing in the surrounding community with ideas of festive events and guest chef evenings to bring people together.
Fiona Richmond, head of regional food at Scotland Food & Drink has praised the commitment, saying: “Stuart and Adelle’s dedication to Orkney’s food and drink sector and community has been remarkable.
“In his new role as Chair of Orkney Food & Drink, and with the upcoming addition of whisky production at Deerness Distillery, Stuart is helping elevate Orkney’s profile as a destination for high-quality, locally produced food and drink.
“We’re thrilled to welcome another unique whisky distillery to the island.”
This newest addition to Deerness Distillery the Dashing Deer Kitchen & Bar is now open and an exciting new addition to the island for both locals and visitors to the area.
