NESTLED on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond is a new multi-million-pound distillery and visitor centre where the worlds of amber nectar and heady botanicals meet like true lovers.
Luss Distillery, on Church Road, is the new home to Loch Lomond Group, in the village's former smokehouse and surrounding land.
They aim to become the destination for whisky and gin lovers, with four buildings including a retail space, discovery area, the Ben Lomond Gin distillery, and a café surrounded by the beautiful scenery of one of Scotland's national parks.
The Advertiser was invited for an exclusive tour of the brand new facility - and it was immediately clear that a great deal of planning, extensive feedback from the local community, and collaboration from some of the best in the industry is what makes this place belong.
“Every detail has been designed to celebrate the character of our spirits and the stunning landscape that inspires them,” said Colin Matthews, founder and CEO of Loch Lomond Group.
“This is our new brand home and a destination where visitors can step behind the scenes, see how our whiskies and gin are crafted with passion, and taste our expressions that have earned many international awards and acclaim.
“The opening of Luss Distillery marks a major milestone for Loch Lomond Group, and the investment reflects our commitment to innovation, quality, and growth in Scotland’s spirits industry, while also creating new jobs and supporting the local community.”
The concept behind Luss Distillery was brought to life by Glasgow-based firm Paul Hodgkiss Designs, as the team sought to invoke a ‘calming connection to nature’.
The designers used natural materials throughout and integrated the importance of the scenery to create the perfect balance between a cutting edge facility and the tranquillity of the surrounding environment.
A symbolic beacon shape has also been woven into the DNA of the design in a nod to nearby Ben Lomond, once known as the ‘Beacon Mountain’.
A true highlight of the tour, which all guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in for free, is the discovery centre, offering the perfect opportunity to learn more about the story behind two distinctive brands - the Ben Lomond Gin and Loch Lomond Whiskies.
The gin is distilled on site whereas the whisky is crafted at the Loch Lomond distillery in nearby Alexandria.
Interactive screens and learning stations ensure that even a quick stop at the centre uncovers new perspectives on different serves and the botanicals that shape the group’s celebrated spirits.
Each of the five senses are thoroughly engaged throughout the centre to get a grasp of the high-quality ingredients sourced and used to craft the perfect bottle. Better yet, visitors can sample or purchase the Loch Lomond Group's extensive range on site - with a few exclusives available.
As Colin added on the tour: "The greatest drinks in the world have the most wonderful stories that accompany them."
For those who love to try their perfect drink with food, the licensed café overseen by Scoff & Patter, offers delicious, hearty focaccia sandwiches and warming homemade soups, which are perfect for the chilly winter ahead.
Meanwhile, the retail centre offers a wide variety of trinkets, drinks miniatures, souvenirs and clothing to give visitors a memorable shopping experience and take a slice of Loch Lomond home with them.
It is hard to believe that the company only secured planning permission for the site in February this year, but this is only the beginning for the group.
Looking ahead, they are keen to collaborate with local businesses including Helensburgh Flowers and Loch Lomond Arms Hotel to bring the community a valuable asset that they can be proud of.
But take this as your warning, if you are looking to visit the new state-of-the-art facility, be quick because their bookings are filling up fast as they predict a busy summer season in 2026.
Luss Distillery is open every day from 10am until 5pm.
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