Former BrewDog brewing expert to turn Highland capital into ‘destination for beer lovers’

Charlotte Cook takes over the position at Uile-bheist Brewery from Lukas Pretzer, who has returned to Germany to work for brewing equipment specialist Kaspar Schulz.

Cook, who started out at Ellon-based maverick beer-maker BrewDog, is a masters brewing graduate from Nottingham University and has spent the most recent part of her career in London, brewing with Trumans and Coalition.

“The market for our beer is very unique, with lots of tourists and consumers year-round,” she said. “I’d really like to see Uile-bheist become a destination for beer lovers - a place where they can experience something individual and for locals to come any time and enjoy our products.

“The role appealed to me in terms of how well the overall brewery is constructed to high specification and also the sustainability side of the operation. Moving to a new brewery and adapting to the philosophy, and mutually adapting, is always a challenge but I think we'll make great beer that people will want to enjoy,” Cook, whose parents live in Elgin, added.

Uile-bheist co-owner Jon Erasmus said the brewery, distillery and tap room was targeting further growth from a solid foundation. With the £47 million Inverness Castle Experience set to open directly behind the brewery - potentially attracting 400 000 new visitors - the venture hopes to bring in additional tour and taproom trade.

“Charlotte brings a wealth of experience in the UK brewing scene and we are excited to see how she develops our existing range but also to hear her ideas for seasonal beers and collaborations, which we have really enjoyed,” Erasmus added.

“We are a genuine craft brewery and working in partnership with other like-minded local breweries is attractive. We are also looking at expanding local markets. The opening of the castle is going to bring a new vibrancy to the city. We want to be a part of that.”