Phil and Simon Thompson are names worth knowing for anyone interested in whisky beyond the well-trodden paths. From Dornoch in the Scottish Highlands, the brothers have built an independent bottling business known for distinctive, characterful and often unexpected releases.

Their story began at Dornoch Castle Hotel, where the brothers first established a renowned whisky bar before founding Dornoch Distillery in 2017. While their own Dornoch Single Malt matures in cask, independent bottlings of whisky and rum have become the heart of the business. Rather than chasing volume, Thompson Bros. focus on small batches, unusual casks and a keen sense for what makes each spirit distinctive.

Their own range also includes the award-winning Organic Mediterranean Gin, as well as the blended whiskies SRV5 and TB/BSW. Increasingly, the spotlight is turning towards Dornoch Single Malt itself, produced with traditional methods and a distinctly hands-on approach.

A visit to the Thompson Bros. stand means discovering independent bottlings with plenty of personality – and a good chance of finding something you didn’t expect to find.