The construction of the £10.5 million visitor centre and whisky distillery in Wooler progressed smoothly and in Spring 2023, the facility opened its doors, although it will be another three years until the first Northumbrian single malt whisky becomes available for sale.

A historic moment unfolded in Northumberland as the two stills for the county’s inaugural whisky distillery arrived in Wooler, accompanied by a parade on the town’s bustling high street, where they were warmly received.

These stills form the essence of the Ad Gefrin distillery, a vital component of the expansive £10.5 million visitor centre, which stands as one of the largest investment projects ever undertaken in North Northumberland. Beyond the distillery, the complex encompasses a museum that delves into the Golden Age of Northumbria, a bistro restaurant, a bar and a gift shop.

Led by a Northumbrian piper and fiddler, the parade unfolded with a spirited ambiance, featuring two vintage trucks and two articulated lorries that carried the precious stills to Ad Gefrin. Enthusiastic locals lined the streets, waving Northumberland and Ad Gefrin flags under the clear blue skies, creating an almost carnival-like atmosphere.

Ad Gefrin is set to put Wooler on the map. Often recognized as both the gateway to the Cheviot Hills and one of the entrances to Northumberland National Park, the town anticipates a surge in tourism with the advent of the new museum. In preparation for the expected influx of visitors, Northumberland County Council has invested £650,000 in the town’s infrastructure to expand car parking facilities and refurbish public toilets.

For Alan and Eileen Ferguson, the founders of Ad Gefrin and long-time residents of Northumberland spanning four generations, the development of the museum has been a labour of love long before its announcement in 2018.

The two whisky stills, transported from Rothes in Speyside, arrived on the backs of trucks, each carrying a precious cargo weighing approximately three tonnes. Together, they grant Ad Gefrin the capacity to produce around 14 casks of whisky per week. However, the distillery is just one facet of the ambitious undertaking.

While Ad Gefrin has garnered significant attention locally, it has also garnered international recognition. It was recognised as one of the most eagerly anticipated museum openings by the Smithsonian Magazine, alongside esteemed institutions such as the National Museum of Norway in Oslo and the Museum of Modern Electronic Music in Frankfurt. However, the primary aim is to ensure that the local community benefits the most from this endeavour.

Finally, in Spring 2023, after five years since the Ferguson family initially unveiled their plans for the distillery and tourist destination, Ad Gefrin opened its doors to the public. In addition to pioneering whisky production in the county, this £10.5 million project aims to create a significant number of jobs in the area, generating employment opportunities in sales for both the UK and international markets, while fostering training and employment within the hospitality, visitor engagement and spirit production sectors.

Although construction is complete at the former Redpath’s Yard site, Northumberland’s first whisky distillery has also launched a founder program, allowing enthusiasts the opportunity to invest in this exciting tourist attraction.

The newly appointed business development manager of Ad Gefrin outlined the program, emphasising the exclusive benefits for Corenkyn members. These benefits include lifelong access to the Exhibition and Distillery Tours, recognition within the new building and an annual bottle of Ad Gefrin spirit for eight years. The initial five years will feature an exclusive Corenkyn Blend Collection, each with a distinct cask finish, followed by the Ad Gefrin Single Malt for the remaining years.

In a commitment to supporting the local community, Northumberland’s pioneering commercial whisky distillery, Ad Gefrin, has announced that it will exclusively source all its ingredients from within a 10-mile radius of its location. Collaborating with four local farmers, Ad Gefrin will cultivate the estimated 400 tonnes of barley required annually. Additionally, the distillery has formed a partnership with Simpsons Malt, located in nearby Berwick, to fulfil its main supply needs.

To ensure sustainability and minimise its environmental impact, Ad Gefrin will draw water for whisky production from an on-site borehole, reaching a depth of 200 meters to access the pristine water sourced from the Cheviot Hills. To support renewable energy, the distillery will harness the power of rooftop solar panels, aligning with its commitment to environmental stewardship.

By championing local agriculture, responsible water sourcing and clean energy practices, Ad Gefrin sets an inspiring example of sustainable whisky production and a dedication to preserving the natural heritage of Northumberland.