Firm boxes clever for Homecoming

Jul 3 2009 by Lisa Boyle

A LEADING joinery company has just finished one of its most unusual commissions.

For they have just completed custom built presentation boxes for a whisky.

Ayr based Harvey McLean Custom Joinery were approached by Macallan Whisky and asked to be involved in their homecoming commemorations.

Harvey McLean said: “When we were first approached by Macallan, I was really excited that one of the world’s most awarded and admired single malt distillers from Speyside would have an interest in us.

“At first I thought we were going to be asked to carry out a major refit of their head office, or their visitor centre, which is of course the area of expertise for which we are renowned.”

In fact, Macallan wanted 250 small wooden boxes, all specially designed with great attention to detail and hand crafted.

But Mr McLean explained that the job was a far cry from the projects his joiners are used to.

He continued: “They were looking for boxes made in Ayrshire from timber sourced locally, as if it was made in the period of Burns.

“They also wanted it rough in appearance. We made it in off-the-saw Scots pine, which was a novelty for the guys in the workshop as they are more used to using top quality timbers such as American cherry and walnut with a smooth polished finish.”

Macallan has produced a unique limited edition malt whisky, limited to 250 bottles only, commemorating Robert Burns’ 250th anniversary and the Homecoming Scotland celebrations.

Mr McLean concluded: “I was really pleased when we learned that Macallan had identified us in their search for a high quality Scottish custom joinery manufacturer.

“We had fun doing the project and I'm really proud to have this association.

“Maybe next time we can refit their offices.”