Orkney Distilling (Kirkjuvagr)

Stephen and Aly Kemp first noticed the growing craft gin market around 2015 through their experience at weddings and events around Orkney. They launched the first Kirkjuvagr Gin expression on 6 August 2016, initially without a dedicated distillery, selling into the local and Scottish market. Encouraged by the response, they committed to establishing a proper production home. In July 2018 they opened The Orkney Distillery on Kirkwall's harbour front, fitting out the ground floor with two traditional alembic copper pot stills, a full bar, café, shop, and tasting room. The name Kirkjuvagr deliberately roots the brand in Orkney's Norse identity — the islands were a Viking stronghold from the 9th to the 15th centuries, and the Norse heritage remains central to Orcadian culture. Single malt whisky production has been planned since the distillery's founding, with spirit maturing for eventual release as the range matures.

The Orkney Distillery operates two traditional alembic copper pot stills, producing all spirits in small batches. The gin range uses Orkney botanicals — the islands' unique landscape, maritime air, and local plant life inform the character of each expression. Kirkjuvagr Origin Orkney Gin is the core expression; Kirkjuvagr Arkh-Angell is a Navy Strength (Storm Strength) variant for those seeking greater intensity; and Kirkjuvagr Aurora is a spiced gin. Whisky spirit production is under way, with maturation ongoing.

The Kirkjuvagr gin range draws on Orkney's maritime environment and Norse heritage through local botanicals. Origin Orkney Gin is the benchmark expression, balancing classic gin character with an Orcadian botanical profile. Arkh-Angell Storm Strength offers the same botanical core at higher ABV, amplifying the intensity. Aurora Spiced Gin explores warming spice alongside the botanical base. All expressions reflect the distillery's small-batch, terroir-influenced approach.

The Orkney Distillery and visitor centre sits on Ayre Road, Kirkwall Harbour. The facility features a bar, café, shop, tasting room, and tours of the production area with its two copper pot stills. The harbour-front location makes it one of the most accessible distilleries in Scotland for visitors arriving by ferry from the Scottish mainland or Aberdeen. Online shop at orkneydistilling.com; physical shop on site.