What is Contract Distilling?
Two Approaches to Contract Distilling
Bespoke Development
Developed from scratch with full control over recipe, flavour, and positioning. Ideal for brands looking to create something unique and distinct.
- Fully customised recipe
- Complete flavour control
- Longer development timeline
White Label / Private Label
Built from an existing base spirit, offering a faster and more accessible route to market.
- Faster production timeline
- Lower development cost
- Branding-led approach
Who We Work With
Our Services
Recipe Development
Creation and refinement of your spirit’s flavour profile.
Sampling & Refinement
Developing and refining your spirit through sampling and adjustment.
Production
Distillation at agreed batch sizes using our facilities.
Bottling & Packaging
Preparation of finished product ready for market.
Labelling & Compliance
Support with legal requirements and product labelling.
Fulfilment Support
Guidance on logistics and getting your product to market.
Our Process
1. Initial Discussion
We start by understanding your idea, goals, and how you want to bring your product to market.
2. Concept & Flavour Direction
We define the style, category, and overall direction of your spirit.
3. Development & Sampling
Your spirit is created and refined through sampling until the final profile is achieved.
4. Production
Once approved, your product moves into full production at the agreed batch size.
5. Bottling & Delivery
Your finished product is bottled, prepared, and ready for market.
Minimum Orders & Commercial Considerations
Every contract distilling project is different, but production typically involves minimum volumes depending on the approach taken.
Bespoke developments generally require larger batch sizes, while white label options can offer a more accessible starting point.
We’ll guide you through the options and help you determine the most suitable route for your project.
Distillery & Production
Our distillery in Aberdeenshire is equipped for small to medium-scale production, supporting both new product development and ongoing contract manufacturing.
We operate modern distilling equipment and offer flexible production runs depending on the nature of each project.
From initial trials through to full production and bottling, all stages are managed within a controlled, compliant, and SALSA-accredited environment.
Experience & Capability
We work with a wide range of clients to develop and produce spirits across multiple categories, from initial concept through to finished product.
Our focus is on creating commercially viable products with clarity, consistency, and quality — with many spirits produced at our distillery receiving recognition in international competitions.
Each project is approached with the same level of care and attention, whether supporting a new brand or producing at scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is contract distilling in Scotland?
Contract distilling is the process of developing and producing a spirit on behalf of a client, allowing brands to bring products to market without operating their own distillery.
Where is your distillery based?
We are based at Lost Loch in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, operating a working distillery for both our own brands and contract distilling partners.
What is the minimum order?
Minimum volumes depend on the approach taken. Bespoke developments typically require larger batch sizes, while white label options offer a more accessible starting point.
How long does the process take?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the project, but development, production, and bottling are all managed in clearly defined stages.
Can you help with recipe development?
Yes. We work with clients to create and refine spirits from initial concept through to a final, production-ready recipe.
Do you offer bottling and labelling?
Yes. We provide bottling, packaging, and guidance on labelling and compliance as part of the production process.
Awards achieved across our portfolio
Start a Conversation
Whether you have a clear concept or are just exploring ideas, we’re happy to talk through your project and help you understand the options.
Enquire Now