Bothy Distillery Appoints Paddy Sinclair as Distillery Manager as Legal Whisky Distilling Returns to Glen Prosen

The Bothy Distillery has announced the appointment of Paddy Sinclair as Distillery Manager, marking a major milestone as legal whisky distilling returns to Glen Prosen for the first time in generations.

Born and raised in the Outer Hebrides, Iain Padraig “Paddy” Sinclair brings over five years’ experience distilling gin and whisky across Scotland. His career includes production roles at The Glasgow Distillery, followed by more than three years working on the Isle of Harris’ at the Isle of Harris Distillery the first (legal) whisky; a landmark project that helped re-establish licensed whisky production on the island after centuries.

Paddy’s passion for whisky was first ignited during his time working at Glasgow’s iconic Pot Still whisky bar, before he went on to complete an MSc in Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University in 2020. He now brings that experience to Glen Prosen, where The Bothy Distillery is entering the final stages of commissioning ahead of first production.

Speaking on his appointment, Paddy said: “To be involved in bringing legal whisky distilling back to Glen Prosen is incredibly special. It feels like the perfect setting for the next chapter; a place where spirit can truly lay low, mature slowly, and develop character in a landscape that is both beautiful and steeped in history.”

The appointment comes at a pivotal point for the distillery. Commissioning work is currently underway in the glen, with the stills due to arrive at the end of the month. Subject to final commissioning and regulatory approvals, the team hopes to begin whisky production in spring 2026.

Paddy joins a highly experienced team led by founder Kim Cameron, whose vision for Bothy Distillery is rooted in Scotland’s landscape, heritage and traditional craft, while creating a new era for Glen Prosen Estate.

He will work closely with Ron Welsh, Master Blender, who brings decades of experience as a Chief Master Blender and strategic inventory manager with Allied and Beam Suntory. Ron is responsible for cask management and spirit quality, shaping the long-term character of Glen Prosen’s whisky.

A central part of the distillery’s future is its private cask programme, led by Lianne MacLennan, Private Cask Sales and Distillery Experience Manager. Lianne oversees bespoke cask ownership and distillery experiences, guiding individuals and groups through the opportunity to own and mature a personalised cask of Glen Prosen spirit.

“Our approach to cask ownership comes directly from our philosophy,” said Lianne.
“Glen Prosen is a place where whisky can mature at its own pace; quietly, patiently, and with real integrity. We want cask owners to feel a genuine connection to that process, to the landscape, and to the people crafting their spirit from the very beginning.”

The team is further supported by Karen Somerville, Whisky Specialist, who brings over 15 years’ experience across wholesale, retail, marketing and events, and is also an established whisky judge. Karen consults on marketing and advocacy, helping share the story of Glen Prosen and its ‘water of life’ with a wider audience.

Alongside distilling operations, The Bothy Distillery will open its visitor centre in April. The centre will welcome visitors Friday to Sunday during the open season, with private tastings and group experiences available year-round by appointment. Guests will be able to explore the distillery’s story, sample spirits, and learn more about cask ownership while production preparations continue.

Further announcements on production milestones, cask releases and visitor experiences will follow in the coming months.