Angus Dundee Distillers, owner of the Tomintoul and Glencadam distilleries in Scotland, has reached an important stage in the development of its first malt whisky distillery in China. The company marked the occasion at its new site in Chun’an with the filling of its first cask.
The Chun’an Malt Whisky Distillery has now moved from the build phase into active production. The ceremonial filling of the first spirit into a cask marks the formal start of whisky making at the site.
Set above Thousand Island Lake, often described locally as ‘the finest water under the heaven’, the distillery brings together Scotch whisky traditions with the natural setting and cultural character of the region.
Iain Lochhead, Director of Angus Dundee Distillers, said:
“Chun’an Distillery is a unique opportunity to combine Scotland’s whisky heritage with one of China’s most inspiring natural landscapes.
“This area is popular due to the exceptional natural beauty of its lakes and mountains and the design of the site itself reflects this, embracing the aesthetics of the local Jiangnan Huizhou architectural style, with every element being built with precision and care.”
The Chun’an Distillery is a long-term investment by Angus Dundee Distillers in China and draws on the group’s established Scotch whisky practices. The site follows the same production principles used at the company’s Scottish distilleries, including copper pot still distillation, careful yeast management, controlled spirit cuts, and a varied cask maturation approach.
With production systems now in place, the First Spirit Filling Ceremony marked the start of the whisky’s maturation process. The event was attended by company directors and invited guests and took place against the backdrop of Thousand Island Lake. It concluded with a meal based on local ingredients and regional cooking styles.
The distillery site covers more than 20 acres and is planned as a full whisky destination. Future visitors will be able to access production galleries, tasting spaces, dining areas, retail outlets, and outdoor areas designed for events and tourism. The visitor facilities are scheduled to open in mid-2026.
Iain Lochhead added:
“The ceremonial filling of the first cask represents a defining moment for our Chinese venture. As we expand our presence in a market we believe will be central to the future of the whisky industry, we are proud to bring our experience and craftsmanship to this region, creating a world-class distillery and visitor experience.”
Through the Chun’an Distillery, Angus Dundee Distillers continues to grow its single malt whisky footprint beyond Scotland. The project reflects the company’s aim to apply established Scotch whisky skills in new locations while supporting Thousand Island Lake’s role as a future centre for international whisky interest.