Tucked away near the picturesque market town of Alyth in Perthshire, Highland Boundary stands as a testament to the fusion of passion, science, and nature.
What began as a requirement to address biodiversity loss by rewilding a piece of Scotland’s rugged landscape has evolved into a thriving distillery that blends tradition, science, and regenerative business to create unique spirits and bitters inspired by the Scottish wilderness.
Behind this innovative brand are Marian and Simon, whose deep connection to the land and their academic backgrounds in ecology have shaped every bottle that leaves their distillery.
Part One
From Rewilding to Distilling: A Botanical Awakening
The story of Highland Boundary begins with Marian and Simon’s decision to purchase a small farm straddling the Highland Boundary Fault, a geological feature that defines the border between the Highlands and Lowlands.
Originally intending to rewild the property, the couple discovered something remarkable during their botanical studies: the untapped potential of native flora in the established world of Scottish spirits.
With one foot in the Highlands and one in the Lowlands, Highland Boundary’s spirits reflect the unique biodiversity of the region, combining northern botanicals with southern grain spirit to create distinctive flavours.
Marian’s academic background was instrumental in shaping the distillery’s ethos. Fascinated by the chemical properties of wild plants, she began experimenting with traditional distilling techniques, infused with a scientific rigour that ensures only the purest, most flavourful elements of the botanicals are captured. The result is a range of spirits and bitters that not only taste exceptional but also celebrate the diverse, underrepresented flora of Scotland.
Part Two
Where Chemistry Meets Craft
At the heart of Highland Boundary is their Wild Distillery, a place where the ‘magic-making’ process is as scientific as it is artisanal. Using a copper alembic still, Marian and her team employ both infusion, distillation and post-distillation techniques to extract maximum botanical flavour from the handpicked plants gathered from their farm and nearby woodlands. These wild botanicals, from native berries to fragrant foliage, are sustainably harvested with a light touch—taking only what nature can spare and leaving enough for the local wildlife.
Each spirit undergoes rigorous testing at the molecular level to ensure that the best and purest flavours are distilled. This level of precision, combined with Marian’s love of wildcrafting, results in remarkable spirits that capture the essence of Scotland’s wilderness in every sip. From their unique bitters to their complex liqueurs, Highland Boundary’s creations are a masterclass in balancing science and tradition.
Part Two
Raising the Bar
Highland Boundary’s commitment to their craft has earned them national and international recognition beyond their distillery’s scenic surroundings. As members of the Great Perthshire Food and Drink group, they stand as a shining example of the regions local produce, and their spirits are starting to attract attention from prestigious restaurants across Scotland – a testament to the quality and distinctiveness of their offerings.
Beyond the accolades, Highland Boundary remains a deeply personal project for Marian and Simon. The couple has also opened their doors to MSc students, sharing their knowledge and passion for the land with the next generation of botanists, distillers and ecologists. Their mission is not only to create exceptional spirits but also to inspire others to see the potential in Scotland’s wild landscape.
Distilling a Legacy
Highland Boundary’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection to the land. From their small farm Marian and Simon have created something truly special – spirits that not only taste of the wild but are rooted in the very earth they sought to restore.
With each bottle, they offer a glimpse of Scotland’s untamed beauty, inviting drinkers to experience the unique flavours of a landscape shaped by millions of years of history.
Whether it’s their handpicked botanicals, their rigorous scientific process, or their commitment to sustainability, Highland Boundary is more than just a distillery. It’s a celebration of Scotland’s wild heart, distilled into every sip.
