Monarq Group and Isle of Raasay Distillery sign distribution deal
The Isle of Raasay Distillery is the first legal distillery on the Hebridean island in Scotland
Monarq, an import, distribution and marketing group of premium alcoholic beverages, has partnered with Isle of Raasay Distillery through a distribution agreement for the Caribbean and Latin America, as well as USA duty free.
Home to just 161 people, the Isle of Raasay (Old Norse for Roe Deer island) lies off the west coast of Scotland in the Inner Hebrides, a 25-minute ferry journey from the Isle of Skye. This corner of the world is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, exaggerated landscapes, impressive geology and one of Scotland’s most incredibly diverse ecosystems. The Isle of Raasay Distillery is the first legal distillery on the Hebridean island, where illicit distilling is said to have taken place as recently as 1850. Co-founded by Scottish entrepreneur Bill Dobbie and whisky blender and qualified botanist Alasdair Day, the Isle of Raasay Distillery distilled its first spirit in September 2017.
Monarq’s Managing Director, Robert de Monchy, said, "We are seeing increasing interest and curiosity in our markets for new frontiers when it comes to premium whiskies. In the past decade, a number of smaller independent single malt distilleries have broken ground, be it in on mainland Scotland or the outer islands. The Isle of Raasay offers a unique proposition to consumers who are looking for a different experience of the highest quality single malt, presented in unique packaging, while being very transparent about how the whisky is being crafted. The brand fits perfectly well in our innovative and distinctive premium spirits portfolio. All Isle of Raasay spirits are distilled, matured and bottled at the distillery. We are excited to partner with the Isle of Raasay Distillery team and bring this amazing product to our distribution partners and whisky lovers in the region.”
Isle of Raasay Distillery’s Commercial Director William Dobbie, added, “We are very excited to be partnering with Monarq, who have had many successful years building spirits brands in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Isle of Raasay Distillery team and I are delighted to finally be bringing our island spirits to whisky lovers across the region and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with the Monarq team.”