Miltonduff Distillery, Miltonduff, Elgin: Archaeological Evaluation

Work was carried out as per the methodology set out in Miltonduff Distillery, Miltonduff, Elgin Archaeological Evaluation Written Scheme of Investigation. The development area was subject to a 7% trial trenching evaluation with 3% contingency to be invoked if the initial evaluation uncovered archaeological features. Restrictions to the proposed trench plan included: a 10m safety buffer for an overhead line and detected services; agricultural fence lines; and a parking/laydown area towards southeast. Some trenches were shortened and other trenches extended to achieve the full 7% evaluation. Thirty-three trenches totalling 4,140m2 (2,070 linear metres, approximately 7% of the 58,000m2 development area) were excavated. All evaluation ground-breaking work was monitored by an archaeologist. The archaeologist directed digging by a mechanical excavator fitted with a 2m wide straight-edged bucket to establish the presence or absence of archaeological remains with the development area. All work was carried out in accordance with the CIfA Code of Conduct. Fieldwork was carried out between 16th January and 6th February 2023. Thirty-three trenches were excavated across the proposed development site. Archaeological features were concentrated in three areas. Area 1, located at the west end of the site, comprised the remains of a substantial wall, remnants of a smaller wall, two large pits and deposits which contained medieval and post-medieval artefacts. Area 2, located on the higher lying ground, contained pit groups, three postholes, and a possible kiln. Area 3, located at the south end of the site, contained a pit group below a deep hill wash deposit. Targeted excavation in these three areas is recommended. Following targeted excavation, a programme of post-excavation analysis of the environmental samples and any potential artefacts is recommended.