THE North-East’s first whisky has been launched and is due to go into production when it moves to a city centre this year.

The first batches of Durham Distillery’s new spirit will be ready to drink in 2021.

The distillery is moving from Langley Park, near Durham, to the newly developed Riverwalk complex, where it will be open for tours.

Owner Jon Chadwick, said: “Since our launch five years ago our gin and vodka brands have gone from strength to strength and for our growth to see us expand into a premises with a great deal of potential right on Durham’s riverside – a dream location for me having been born and raised in the city.”

The whisky project is led by head distiller Jessica Tomlinson, who described it as a “huge step”.

She said: “Our venture into the world of whisky is a huge step for the company and as a regional first, we want to create a product that the North-East can be proud of and enjoyed here in our hometown as well as across the globe.

“We have been working hard to get our package offering just right with options to suit all audiences, from a whisky connoisseur who can’t wait to sample one of the first bottles, to venues with a desire to invest in a higher volume to stock behind the bar. We want these to remain exclusive so there is limited availability.

“There’s been an unbelievable response over the last few days from those who pre-registered for a preview of the options, so following the general release we’d urge anyone interested to act fast.”

Jon Chadwick, owner of Durham Distillery added: “It’s all go for Durham Distillery this year which will see us invest in a visitor attraction for the city in the form of our relocation, and bring a dynamic new product to the drinks market.

“These are certainly ambitious plans, however we have a fantastic team and have been overwhelmed by the interest already shown by consumers.”