Wemyss Family Spirits urges protection for Scotch whisky
THE FOUNDER of a family-owned spirits business is “bracing for the ripple effects” of fresh United States tariffs and is urging UK and US governments to strive to protect a sector that is vital to the Scottish economy.
William Wemyss is Founder and Chairman of Wemyss Family Spirits, which counts Kingsbarns Distillery near St Andrews, as well as Darnley’s Gin and Wemyss Malts among its brands.
He said: “As a family-owned business producing and selling spirits including Scotch whisky, we are once again bracing for the ripple effects of political decisions made thousands of miles away.
“The looming threat of fresh US tariffs brings a sense of déjà vu, a reminder of the damaging impact of the last trade dispute, which cost our industry £600 million in just 18 months.
“Tariff-free access gives us the confidence to invest, to grow, and to share our craft with whisky lovers across the Atlantic.
“We urge both the UK and US governments to prioritise Scotch whisky in trade discussions and avoid allowing our sector to become collateral damage once again.
“Long-term investment and jobs depend on it. While we continue to diversify and build resilience, we remain committed to protecting the legacy, quality, and global reputation of Scotch whisky.”
In 2005, siblings William and Isabella, started on their whisky journey with the launch of Wemyss Malts, a brand dedicated to crafting expertly blended single malts.
With a background in the family’s French vineyard and a deep connection to Scotland’s whisky heritage, William focused on blending exceptional single malts, while Isabella played a key role in sourcing new-make spirit, selecting oak casks, and curating mature stock to develop high-quality small-batch whiskies.
He added: “There’s also a broader tourism impact. If tariffs lead to inflationary pressures in the US, consumers may have less discretionary income to spend on experiences like golf holidays in St Andrews – which could affect visitor numbers to our distillery and impact on the wider tourism sector.”
Expanding their spirits portfolio, Wemyss Family Spirits introduced Darnley’s Gin in 2010, inspired by the historic meeting of Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Darnley at Wemyss Castle in 1565.
Their whisky legacy took another step forward in 2014 with the founding of Kingsbarns Distillery, a small, family-run distillery and visitor centre located near the village of Kingsbarns in Fife.
For more information about Wemyss Family Spirits, visit: https://wemyssfamilyspirits.com/
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