Dunrobin Castle, located in Sutherland, has submitted a proposal to the Highland Council for the construction of a micro-distillery.

Built in the 13th century, Dunrobin Castle is the family seat of the Clan Sutherland.

It has sought permission to transform its powerhouse into a distillery that would also feature visitor facilities and a tasting room.

"Unlike many whisky distilleries, Dunrobin Highland Distillery can offer a holistic approach to the production of whisky."

The application to the planning authorities also has sought permission for conversion of its current steading buildings at Dunrobin Farm into bonded warehouses, reported thespiritsbusiness.com.

If the proposal gets approval from the Highland Council, Dunrobin Castle intends to collaborate with Lachlan Stewart Studio for design of the distillery, which will produce Scotch whisky and gin in limited editions.

Once mini-distillery commences production, it will create eight jobs.

In its proposal, Dunrobin Castle was reported by the website as stating: “Unlike many whisky distilleries, Dunrobin Highland Distillery can offer a holistic approach to the production of whisky.

“The estate has unique access to its own private water source, Cagar Foesaig, the source which is located deep inland within the mountain ranges on the estate."

“The estate owns and manages some of the Highland’s prime arable farmland and currently grows barley for other large local distilleries. Some of this barley is also milled in Golspie Mill, formerly Dunrobin Mill, which has been operational since 1863 and could be used to mill limited runs of barley for use in the new distillery.”