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Hopes for ‘drinks museum’ to lift spirits in Aberdeen city centre

Some of the possible locations for the new attraction include the new Aberdeen Market and the soon to be empty branch of Marks and Spencer.

Adam Elan-Elmegirab and Bob Keiller.
Founder and director of Aberdeen's House of Botanicals, Adam Elan-Elmegirab, wants to revive the history Aberdeen's booming drinks industry. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson.

Talks are under way in an bid to launch a city centre museum highlighting Aberdeen’s historic role in the drinks industry.

Spirits maker Adam Elan-Elmegirab wants to open a venue showcasing the rich history of local manufacturers – some of which are now world-famous.

The founder of House of Botanicals, at the city’s railway arches,is eager to share the “untold stories” of the sector.

Adam reckons that while many might know legendary labels like Chivas Regal and Cadenhead’s, fewer are aware of their links to Aberdeen.

He thinks this has been a “missed opportunity” for the city, given the popularity of drinks tourism across Moray and the Highlands.

There are dozens of distilleries across Moray and the Highlands, drawing tourists from across the world every year.

And with more cruise ship tourists to visit in years to come, he believes it’s the perfect time to launch such a project.

Adam has now linked with the Our Union Street group to explore the idea of a major venue to bring more people into the struggling city centre.

‘Aberdeen was the heart of the trade’

“There are a whole load of interesting stories that have been overlooked, and somehow hidden,” Adam adds.

“And it’s not just about booze.

“There is a bigger picture here that ties in with so many other things – it’s about what the city used to be and how it has evolved over the years.

“Aberdeen was at the heart of trade centuries ago, so let’s document that and give others an opportunity to explore it.”

Adam wants to highlight the good things that are happening in the food and drink industry in Aberdeen. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson.

So what exactly is his idea?

There are no concrete plans yet, but Adam has a pretty clear idea about the museum.

It would offer visitors an insight into Aberdeen’s trading past – dating as far back as the 18th Century.

And it will cover everything – from how alcohol was once used as maritime medicine to the history of the city as a major port for coffee, rum and sugar.

Modern local producers – such as himself, Brewdog, Fierce – will also show how alcohol production has evolved.

Launched in 2009, House of Botanicals turned into Aberdeen’s first spirits business for about 70 years. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson.

The museum could also include a restaurant and bar, as well as a shop and tasting room.

Meanwhile, Adam is also working on a map of old Aberdeen distilleries and other prominent booze-related landmarks for walking tours.

He adds: “All of the cruise ships visitors that came into our shop last year were very interested in the history of the drinks – so there is definitely interest in this.

“I truly believe this could be a real showcase for the city.”

The three current versions of Very Big Moose, by Fierce Beer.
Fierce Beer has grown to be one of the most popular brewers in Aberdeen since opening in 2018. Image: Fierce Beer.

Would you be keen to visit such a museum in Aberdeen? Let us know in our comments section below.


Where could this museum be?

Some of the options could include the new Aberdeen Market at The Green, which is expected to be completed in 2026.

The place could be a great way to promote locally produced beer and spirits, and boost the hospitality industry in Aberdeen. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson.

The city centre building of Marks and Spencer, which will be empty by next spring, could also be on the table.

Adam says the aim is to “kill two birds with one stone” – fill a gap in the market, and bring a disused city centre unit back to life.

Bob Keiller says this project has a lot of potential to turn into a big tourist-draw for Aberdeen. Image: by Scott Baxter/DC Thomson.

And while they might be still at the very beginning of the project, Our Union Street chief Bob Keiller says there is plenty “worth exploring”.

“This could be more than a museum,” he adds.

“It could be a celebration of the history of whisky, gin and blending in Aberdeen – telling the story of world famous brands that started here and highlighting current local brands.”

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