Scotland-based Speyburn Distillery has revealed plans to invest £4m to double the production capacity, with an aim to meet the growing demand for its single malt Scotch whisky across the world.

Located near Rothes in Speyside, the distillery is part of the Inver House Distillers portfolio, which is owned by International Beverage Holdings.

The expansion, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2014, will increase the distillery’s production capacity from the present 1.8 million litres to over four million litres annually.

By using latest energy efficient distillation equipment and by following distillery’s traditional production methods, the expansion programme will reduce the distillery’s energy consumption and improve its carbon footprint.

Speyburn’s portfolio of spirits includes 10yo, 25yo and ‘Bradan Orach’ expressions, which are distilled from pure water sourced from Granty Burn, near River Spey.

Inver House Distillers managing director Graham Stevenson said as they continue to be optimistic about the long term potential for Scotch whisky, particularly in the emerging BRIC, African and South East Asian economies, investment in their production capabilities is crucial.

"Having the infrastructure in place to produce our high quality whiskies in greater quantities will be key to the future success of our brands, so we are delighted to see the first phase of this major programme of work get underway at Speyburn Distillery," Stevenson added.

Speyburn Distillery manager Bobby Anderson said they are working with a great team of local companies to deliver the expansion programme, whilst retaining the great traditions and time-honoured techniques involved with crafting their whisky.

"It’s exciting for us to know that even more people around the world will be able to enjoy a taste of Speyburn as the project progresses this year," Anderson added.