Distilling

CLPT Completes Delivery of  Myoko Distillery Project in Japan

Setting a New Benchmark with Highly Integrated Modular Whisky Solutions

CLPT (CIMC Liquid Process Technology) and its UK-based heritage whisky engineering expert, Briggs of Burton, have recently completed the official delivery of a small-to-medium-scale whisky production facility for the Myoko Distillery in Japan. This project represents CLPT’s first fully integrated, highly modular whisky project delivery, and also serves as an important technical precursor and engineering validation for the previously released BRIGGS WhiskyOne modular whisky distillation solution.

The Myoko Distillery project covers core process units from raw material handling to distillation and utilities, including:

  • Raw material handling system
  • Mashing system
  • Fermentation system (with wooden fermentation vessels provided by the customer)
  • Distillation system (with copper pot stills provided by the customer)
  • Utility systems

Throughout design, manufacturing and integration, a high proportion of modular prefabrication was adopted. Pre-assembly and pre-testing were completed in the factory before delivery to the site, significantly shortening on-site installation and commissioning time, while ensuring process consistency and long-term operational reliability. The successful implementation of the Myoko Distillery project validates CLPT’s modular engineering capabilities in small-to-medium-scale whisky plant projects and provides a real-world technical blueprint for the standardised design of the BRIGGS WhiskyOne solution.

BRIGGS WhiskyOne: A Proven Modular Distillation System

CLPT has previously launched the BRIGGS WhiskyOne – a complete modular malt whisky production system. The system is available in two batch sizes: 1 tonne and 2 tonnes, with an annual capacity of up to 1 million litres of pure alcohol (1 MLPA). It flexibly accommodates single-shift, double-shift and 24/7 continuous production modes.

Key advantages of BRIGGS WhiskyOne include:

  • Fast delivery, faster time-to-market – All modules are pre-assembled, pre-piped, pre-wired and pre-tested in the factory, then shipped as standard containers. On-site installation time is significantly reduced.
  • Flexible scaling, adapts to changing needs – Capacity can be increased by adding shifts, fermentation equipment or cycle frequency – without redesigning core equipment.
  • No compromise on quality, full flavour control – Optional Scottish handcrafted copper stills from McMillan Coppersmiths, with various neck shapes; adjustable wort clarity in the mashing stage; retained manual operation capability during distillation to help distillers shape their unique spirit character.
  • Global technology, local delivery – Engineering led by Briggs of Burton (UK), copper stills handcrafted by McMillan Coppersmiths (Scotland), and modular manufacturing & global delivery by CLPT China.
  • Designed for sustainability – These could potentially integrate with the BRIGGS Thermo Energy Recovery range, effectively reducing steam consumption and carbon emissions.

The successful completion of Myoko Distillery project further confirms the engineering reliability and delivery capability of the BRIGGS WhiskyOne modular system in a real production environment. Whether for a distillery starting its journey or an established line expanding capacity, BRIGGS WhiskyOne offers a replicable, scalable and sustainable pathway forward.

Leveraging nearly three centuries of process heritage, a China-Europe collaborative R&D and manufacturing network, and deep roots in the Chinese whisky industry, CLPT will continue to use BRIGGS WhiskyOne as a proven platform to empower small-batch, diversified, flexible production models – helping distillers in China and around the world bring new whisky projects from concept to reality.

Posted in Distilling, Engineering

BRIGGS Sponsors the Worldwide Distilled Spirits Conference 2026

Briggs of Burton was the Diamond Sponsor of the Worldwide Distilled Spirits Conference (WDSC) 2026, held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre from 4-7 May, reinforcing its position as a leading distilling engineering company within the global spirits industry. The company also contributed to the overall conference experience, including participation in key networking activities.

Recognised as a leading international forum for science, technology, and innovation in distilled spirits production, WDSC brings together producers, suppliers, researchers, and industry experts from across the distilled spirits sector. The 2026 edition attracted a strong international audience representing whisky, gin, rum, vodka, and emerging craft spirit markets.

Supporting a Global Platform for Innovation

BRIGGS’ sponsorship reflects its continued commitment to supporting industry dialogue and advancing technical excellence in distillation. Events such as WDSC provide a valuable platform for sharing expertise, exploring emerging technologies, and addressing key challenges facing producers worldwide – from sustainability targets to evolving consumer expectations – while aligning BRIGGS with forward-thinking distillers and decision-makers navigating a rapidly evolving landscape.

Against a backdrop of shifting consumer preferences, tightening regulations, and increasing sustainability demands, the conference serves as a vital forum for knowledge exchange and innovation.

Showcasing Innovation in Distilling Technology

During the conference, BRIGGS showcased its latest advancements in distillation and process engineering, including modular and turnkey systems designed to meet the needs of both established producers and emerging brands.

Key technologies highlighted included:

  • Modular distillery concepts – offering flexibility and scalability for new and expanding operations.
  • Advanced process integration – optimising energy use and improving operational efficiency.
  • Sustainable engineering solutions – designed to reduce water, energy, and carbon footprints.

With growing emphasis on decarbonisation and resource efficiency across the industry, BRIGGS’ solutions demonstrated how distillers could meet environmental goals without compromising performance or product quality.

CLPT Group Expertise

WDSC 2026 BRIGGS McMillan
WDSC 2026

At Stand #20, BRIGGS welcomed delegates to explore the latest distilling equipment, technologies, and global project experience delivered by our CLPT Group.

Experts were available to discuss solutions across the entire distillery process and project lifecycle, including:

  • Raw material handling and processing.
  • Distillation and maturation systems.
  • Utilities and hygienic process systems.
  • Large-scale stainless steel vessel design and manufacture.
  • Integrated engineering and automation solutions.

Group Capabilities on Display

  • Briggs of Burton (BRIGGS) – specialist distilling process engineering and turnkey project delivery.
  • McMillan Coppersmiths & Fabricators – traditional copper craftsmanship combined with modern distilling engineering.
  • CLPT Group expertise – insights covering distillation, maturation, utilities, hygienic and sustainable processing, digitalisation and systems integration.

Whether focused on process equipment, integrated solutions, digitalisation strategies, or sustainability, delegates were able to engage directly with technical experts across multiple disciplines.

Featured Technical Sessions

WDSC 2026 BRIGGS ThermoDrive - Latest performance of MVR at The GlenAllachie Distillery
WDSC 2026 BRIGGS ThermoDrive - MVR in the real world.

Conference attendees also had the opportunity to attend BRIGGS technical sessions:

  • Latest performance of MVR at The GlenAllachie Distillery – presented the latest developments in Thermo Energy Recovery.
  • ProLeiT Demo: The Digital Backbone of a Modern Distillery – ProLeiT presented the latest approach to process automation of distilleries.

These sessions highlighted trends in distillery automation, digital transformation, and energy efficiency technologies.

Supporting Industry Growth and Knowledge Sharing

Alongside our presence at the exhibition, Briggs of Burton and the wider CLPT Group took an active role in the WDSC technical programme, delivering both e-Poster presentations and panel contributions across key industry topics:

  • Process Modelling of Distillation Column Systems – From Simulation to Design Validation. 
  • Total Carbon Ownership (TCO₂): Balancing Embodied & Operational CO2, and Payback in Process Equipment Decisions.
  • Copper Contact and Condenser Design: Material Compatibility and Sustainable Innovation in Distillation.
  • Co-Product Utilisation – Zeroing your distillery: Valorising Draff for Fossil-Free Heat Supply.
  • Distillery Sustainability Panel – MVR in the real world.

A Standout Networking Experience: 80s Retro Rewind!

As Diamond Sponsor, BRIGGS also proudly hosted the WDSC Wednesday evening social, themed ‘80s Retro Rewind’ – a highlight of the conference networking programme.

Held at Dynamic Earth, the event combined entertainment, industry engagement, and nostalgia, celebrating a decade defined by bold innovation and engineering progress. Guests were welcomed with cocktails provided by Glenmorangie, followed by an evening of food, entertainment, and interactive experiences.

The event paid tribute to an era when engineering pushed boundaries, including milestones such as the installation of early MVR systems in Scotland, while offering a memorable and informal setting for industry professionals to connect.

Strengthening Industry Relationships

The conference provided an important opportunity for BRIGGS to strengthen relationships across the distilled spirits value chain. Its presence at WDSC 2026 enabled engagement with clients, collaborators, and prospective partners, reinforcing its role as a trusted engineering partner from concept through to commissioning.

Drawing on decades of experience, BRIGGS continues to support both established global producers and innovative new entrants across the sector.

Looking Ahead

As the global spirits market continues to expand, particularly in premium and emerging segments, BRIGGS’ involvement in WDSC 2026 underscored its ambition to remain at the forefront of engineering excellence.

With a strong heritage in brewing and distilling and a growing portfolio of advanced process solutions, BRIGGS is well positioned to support the next generation of distilleries worldwide.

WDSC 2026 Briggs of Bruton

Posted in Distilling

Briggs of Burton & McMillan Coppersmiths at the Spirit of Speyside: strengthening regional partnerships

Briggs of Burton and McMillan Coppersmiths were proud to attend this year’s Spirit of Speyside Festival Dinner, an important fixture in the distilling calendar that brings together industry leaders, partners, and innovators from across the region.

While the event itself provides a valuable opportunity for connection, our presence reflects something deeper: our long-standing commitment to Speyside and the many distilleries we have supported over the years.

A Strong Heritage in Speyside

BRIGGS and McMillan have a well-established footprint across Speyside, having successfully delivered a wide range of projects in collaboration with some of the region’s most respected producers. From process design and engineering to the manufacture and installation of copper stills and associated systems, our combined expertise has contributed to the development, expansion, and optimisation of numerous distilleries.

The dinner provided an excellent opportunity to reconnect with valued clients and partners, reinforcing relationships built on trust, technical excellence, and shared ambition.

Continuing Investment in the Region

Our engagement in Speyside is very much ongoing. BRIGGS and McMillan are currently involved in several active projects across the area, supporting both brownfield expansions and new-build distilleries. These projects range from capacity increases and process upgrades to the delivery of bespoke distillation systems and integrated plant solutions.

This continued investment underlines our confidence in the long-term strength of the Scotch whisky industry and our commitment to supporting its growth with innovative, high-quality engineering.

Looking Ahead

As the Speyside region continues to evolve, BRIGGS and McMillan remain dedicated partners to the distilling community. Our presence at this year’s event reflects both our heritage in the region and our active role in shaping its future.

We look forward to continuing our work with existing customers and developing new partnerships as we support the next generation of distilling excellence in Speyside.

Posted in Distilling

BRIGGS ThermoDrive accelerates change

The year 2025 saw several significant moments in the life of The GlenAllachie Distillery. Not only was its 12-year-old expression named the World’s Best Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards, a ground-breaking expansion project, undertaken together with Briggs of Burton, also was completed.


BRIGGS’ partnership with the team at GlenAllachie has delivered a cutting-edge production set-up that’s enabled incredible energy savings within the wash distillation process.


The project integrated a BRIGGS ThermoDrive unit to each of the two large (21,000 litre) wash stills at The GlenAllachie, which, importantly for the BRIGGS Group, were originally crafted by McMillan Coppersmiths (now owned by BRIGGS). This high-tech mechanical vapour recompression (MVR) system is letting The GlenAllachie slash its energy usage, by recycling heat that would otherwise be wasted during distillation. The technology was retrofitted to an existing stillhouse which first produced whisky in 1968, making the scheme’s realisation all the more notable.


It’s anticipated that the system will save 367 tCO2e per year, equivalent to the annual use of 183 diesel cars. In short, it maximises stillhouse efficiency, providing 90%+ energy savings during wash distillation. On average, it’s estimated that such efficiency translates to system payback in three years, depending on certain variables. BRIGGS ThermoDrive is just one solution within BRIGGS’ Thermo energy recovery systems range, which are helping the Scotch whisky industry’s efforts to decarbonise through fresh, sustainability-focused innovations.


The GlenAllachie and BRIGGS have both appreciated the partnership that’s allowed this success story to develop. Alan McConnachie, GlenAllachie’s Distillery Manager, actually came out of retirement to run the project, and it seems the outcome has justified his choice.


“It’s great to see BRIGGS ThermoDrive working and achieving the efficiency we hoped it would,” Alan commented. “Every day now, we’re making significant savings in our energy consumption and to our CO2 emissions, so it’s really driving us towards our sustainability targets. The project was supported by the Scottish Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (SIETF) and, as you might expect with next-generation technology, getting the system up and running hasn’t been easy. But the results speak for themselves, it’s definitely been worth it.”

Posted in Distilling

Briggs of Burton attends the 7th Annual James B. Beam Conference

What a fantastic few days in Lexington for the 7th Annual James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits Industry Conference!

Our BRIGGS team had a brilliant time connecting with distilling professionals, researchers, and industry leaders as we explored the innovations, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of the spirits sector. A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by Booth 68 to meet the team and chat with Reay Dicks and Alex Hoekstra. Great conversations, new ideas, and plenty of energy around distilling technology.

We were especially proud to contribute to the technical programme with two insightful presentations:

  • Dr. Ben Connolly – Demystifying Heat Recovery and Integration in Distilleries
  • Andrew Mieleniewski – Alternative Technology for Wet Cake Handling in Distilling

Both sessions sparked valuable discussions around energy optimisation and operational efficiency.

Thank you to the organisers, partners, and attendees for another excellent industry gathering. We’re already looking forward to continuing these conversations and driving innovation across the spirits sector.

Posted in Distilling

BRIGGS Delivers Turnkey Distillery for Ardgowan: A New Era in Sustainable Scottish Whisky

Ardgowan Distillery Company Limited has officially opened its doors, marking a major milestone for Scottish whisky and sustainable distilling.

BRIGGS played a leading role in the design and engineering of the distillery, delivering the full project as a turnkey solution from concept through to commissioning.

Our scope of work included the supply and integration of specialist process equipment:

  • BRIGGS Full Distillery Lauter Tun (Mash Tun)
  • Ziemann Holvrieka’s stainless steel washbacks
  • McMillan Coppersmiths’ centrepiece copper stills and spirit safe
  • BRIGGS ThermoJet – our Thermal Vapour Recompression (TVR) system for energy recovery

Our team was responsible for integrating everything from raw materials to finished spirit, supervising the mechanical and electrical installation (M&E), and automation and control systems, through to handover and commissioning.

This project showcases the strength of collaboration within our wider group, with Ziemann Holvrieka supplying key fermentation equipment. And McMillan delivering traditional Scottish copperwork to exacting standards.

Designed with future expansion and sustainability in mind, the distillery will initially produce 0.8 MLPA of malt whisky spirit.

We’ll be launching our dedicated ThermoJet (TVR) page soon, in the meantime, find out more about ThermoDrive, our Mechanical Vapour Recompression (MVR) solution here.

Posted in Distilling, Engineering

Briggs of Burton attends the 6th Annual James B Beam Conference

Briggs of Burton recently attended the 6th Annual James B Beam Conference, engaging with global leaders in the distilled spirits industry to discuss the future of distilling technologies and sustainable production.

Representing BRIGGS at the event were Reay Dicks (VP, Briggs of Burton, Inc.), Alex Hoekstra (Senior Project Engineer), and Ben Connolly (Lead Research and Development Engineer). Ben delivered a well-received presentation on BRIGGS ThermoDrive – our Mechanical Vapour Recompression (MVR) solution – highlighting its potential to deliver significant energy and water savings for distilleries worldwide.

The conference was an excellent platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing innovations, and reinforcing BRIGGS’ position as a trusted partner within the bourbon industry.

Key BRIGGS deliverables for Bourbon Whiskey distilleries

With a multi-disciplinary team experienced in working across the engineering sector, our approach here at BRIGGS is always to exceed expectations and deliver absolute excellence. 

Our specialisms towards supporting Bourbon Whiskey, in particular, focus on Front End Loading (FEL) 1 design studies exploring water, carbon and energy savings, technologies such as Thermal and Mechanical Vapour Recompression (TVR / MVR), specialist stainless steel and copper distillation equipment, utility design and planning, 3D laser scanning of existing production facilities, Hazard and Operability Analysis (HAZOP) / Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), commissioning and turnkey project implementation.

Reach out to our sales team to discover more about developing your Bourbon Whiskey distillery today.

Posted in Distilling

BRIGGS Attend CIBD Asia Pacific

This week, BRIGGS attended the 38th Chartered Institute of Brewers and Distillers (CIBD) Asia Pacific Convention in Hobart, Australia, alongside our sister company, Ziemann Holvrieka.

During the event, Andrew Mieleniewski took the stage to speak about BRIGGS ThermoDrive.

It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with professionals from across the beverage industry, both locally and internationally. We’ve had insightful discussions on our future-proofing technologies and project capabilities, reinforcing our commitment to supporting breweries, distilleries, and beverage production facilities worldwide.

About Briggs of Burton

If you have eaten or drunk it, there is a chance that Briggs of Burton has helped to produce it.

Briggs are the engineers behind supplying the equipment, engineering and automation to the world’s largest food, alcoholic beverage, and pharmaceutical manufacturers

Today Briggs employs over 300 colleagues across six sites in the UK, Scotland, USA, Mexico, China, and Australia. The team deliver turnkey engineering projects for leading household brands covering North America, Europe, Central America, Africa, Australia, and Asia. Briggs’ benefits from a global network of stainless-steel manufacturing facilities, including their own located in Burton on Trent and Prestonpans, Scotland.

Briggs is actively developing sustainable engineering solutions, focusing on their customer’s requirements towards carbon neutrality.

Posted in Brewing, Distilling

Whyte & Mackay Blend Centre Expansion Project

With plans to double spirit production capacity over the next five years, Whyte & Mackay is transforming operations at their Invergordon Distillery to handle increased demand and the launch of a range of new products.  

BRIGGS is proud to partner with Whyte & Mackay, Ziemann Holvrieka, and the Port of Cromarty Firth to deliver this ambitious expansion. We began with a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate the Invergordon site and develop a roadmap to support their 5-year growth plan. Following this, BRIGGS was appointed to deliver the detailed design, engineering, and manufacturing for the distillery’s facility expansion. 

Our global expertise has been central to the project’s success, with process design supported by our engineering teams and vessel manufacturing supplied by Ziemann Holvrieka in Menen, Belgium. 

The project includes the design and production of 26 vessels. These vessels arrived via the Port of Cromarty Firth marking a significant milestone in Whyte & Mackay’s journey and are now fully installed on site.  

Posted in Distilling, Uncategorised