The Glenturret Distillery could be included on a UK Government investment portfolio, in a bid to secure a quick sale.
Owners Edrington announced it is selling the iconic Crieff facility – the oldest of its kind in Scotland – along with its popular Famous Grouse Experience visitor attraction.
The move has raised fears for the local tourism industry, although distillery bosses are hopefully it will be bought as a going concern.
Local MP Luke Graham has discussed the sale with government investment minister Graham Stuart.
He has urged Mr Stuart to include Glenturret on a recently-launched Scottish investment portfolio, which markets key sites to potential buyers across the globe.
The massive Perth West site – earmarked for 3,700 homes off the A9 – is also featured in the document.
Mr Graham, Conservative MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, said: “I was disappointed to hear that the Edrington Group are planning to sell the Glenturret Distillery.
“Having the Famous Grouse Experience located there has proven to be an enormous success, providing jobs and investment for the local economy. However, this also means that it is an attractive proposition for any potential buyer.”
He said: “I will be following up on this meeting and other discussions, to do everything I can to secure jobs and investment for Crieff and the surrounding areas.”
Mr Graham also met representatives of Edrington, as well as the Department for International Trade.
Glenturret Distillery has seen its footfall increase by 4% in the last year.
General manager John Laurie said: “While I’ll be sad to bid farewell to the Famous Grouse brand and our colleagues at Edrington, once the distillery transfers to a new owner, the Glenturret Distillery will continue to be an integral part of the Crieff and Perthshire community, as it has been throughout its 240 year history.
“We know that the Glenturret welcomed over a million visitors before it eventually opened as the Famous Grouse Experience in 2002, and its status as one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries makes it a significant draw for tourists from all over the world.”
