Case Study | RAER How Scotland’s RAER are realising their vision

REALISE A VISION

WHEN JACKTON, SCOTLAND-BASED RAER BUILT THEIR IMPRESSIVE DISTILLERY AND BREWHOUSE, THEY INVESTED IN EQUIPMENT ACROSS THE BOARD TO MEET THEIR AMBITIOUS EXPANSION PLANS.

Raer Scotch Whisky Limited is an independent familyowned distillery and brewhouse in the small village of Jackton, near Glasgow.

While the family dream was always to set up a distillery and produce whisky, support for the community and its resources remains central to their vision. They are committed to using local ingredients where possible, including having their own water source at the distillery and growing their own grain.

Also, during the pandemic, Raer has worked with local businesses and charities to distribute free hand sanitiser to some of the most vulnerable people within their community.

Operations Director Max McAneny explains: “Using the highest quality raw ingredients and having sustainable production is key to success. “We currently use Scottish barley which is malted locally. We also grow barley ourselves in the neighbouring field and the traceability that this will afford us is fantastic.”

A maltings facility is currently being built and they are now bringing production of neutral grain spirit in-house too. Once complete, Raer will have a true grain-toglass operation with full traceability.

Additionally, Raer’s spent barley is used to feed the cows on the neighbouring farm. They have recyclable packaging for their products and an application has been made for wind turbines on the farm where the distillery is located. This will add to their already impressive green credentials.

Ryebeck has been Raer’s equipment supplier of choice, providing sophisticated solutions for their business needs. This incorporates bulk malt handling, a fully functional brewhouse, two (5000L & 2000L) stills along with a 10L R&D still, CIP tank system, chiller, spent grain removal system and all the required finishing and holding tanks.

Ryebeck’s in-depth knowledge and experience of brewing and distilling have provided Raer with a unique operation. The malt handling system delivers the benefits of higher extract and enhanced control achieved from milling their own malt.

The brewery has brought together some of the highest levels of automation installed in the UK. Similarly, the distillery set-up enables a near continuous operation of the wash and spirit stills.

Commenting on Ryebeck’s involvement, McAneny adds: “After meeting Tim Prime [managing director], we felt that his attitude and responses to our questions were excellent and that we could develop a good relationship. “Their lead-in times for equipment were much better than others and communication between us has been great. Even when we have technical questions, they are able to supply the answers within a reasonable response time.”

The company launched Raer Blended Scotch Whisky at the end of 2020. This expert blend of malt and grain whiskies offers new and experienced whisky fans a smoother, naturally sweeter, entry-level whisky for sipping over ice or in a whisky cocktail.

Additionally, last year on 12th February, Raer Whisky filled its first cask and has since laid down a stunning selection of what will become their malt whiskies.

Our spirit, which is currently maturing, will become the start of a continuous supply of new and exciting malt whiskies.”

Sales and marketing director, Katie O’Brien comments: “Raer cask finishes include port, sherry, rum, Madeira, Sauternes, Rioja, Bourbon and more. “Our spirit, which is currently maturing, will become the start of a continuous supply of new and exciting malt whiskies from Valentine’s Day 2023.”

Raer has just released Jackton Gin, working with Craig Law, Ryebeck’s Master Distiller. Initially using a small test still, Law helped with perfecting the recipe, fine-tuning the mix of botanicals, before upscaling production to a much larger 2000L spirit still.

The result is a juniper-led gin offering the perfect balance of classic and exotic botanicals.

Raer has exciting plans to grow the business further. The team is already working on a vodka and pink gin and has developed 11 different beers from which a selection will be made for future production. The distillery also intends to open a shop on-site and extend its branded merchandise.

The success of Raer’s ambitious projects has been possible through an innovative business model incorporating high quality, bespoke, technologically advanced machinery.

Ryebeck’s expertise has been essential in scoping the project, sourcing, supplying and fitting the equipment and providing technical advice.

As a result, the Scottish distillery has already established an important presence in its local area with a vision to become known and renowned throughout the country and beyond.