Glen Keith distillery is known for its experimental approach to whisky production and its role as a pilot plant for Seagram and Chivas Brothers’ distilling trials. Located in Keith, behind the Strathisla plant, the distillery started producing triple-distilled malt from the beginning and experimented with a variety of distilling methods. These included alternating between triple […]
Glen Grant is a whisky known for its light, apple-fresh character, a quality that has been central to its production since “The Major,” John Grant, took charge in the late 19th century. His influence is seen in the distillery’s unique design, which includes the installation of purifying chambers in the lyne arm and the distinct […]
Glen Elgin is known for its lush fruitiness, a key characteristic shaped by clear wort, long fermentation, and slow distillation in its six stills. These techniques help eliminate sulphur, while the use of worm tubs in the condensation process adds weight and complexity to the whisky. This combination of methods has made Glen Elgin a […]
Dufftown, one of the few distilleries where the spirit stills are larger than the wash stills, has a distinctive production history. Initially produced in the ‘Bell’s’ style, it featured a malt-heavy, nutty-spicy character. However, in recent years, changes have been made to cater to Diageo’s blending needs. The fermentation process has been lengthened, and clear […]
Dalwhinnie, often characterized by its sweet and honeyed profile, does not start life with such a gentle character. It is one of the distilleries that purposefully creates a heavy, sulphury new make. The process involves using clear worts and long ferments, which contribute to a light waxiness in the background. However, the distillery’s stills are […]
Dalmunach Distillery, located on the banks of the River Spey in Carron, Moray, is one of the most modern and environmentally conscious distilleries in Scotland. Built by Chivas Brothers (part of Pernod Ricard) in 2014, Dalmunach was constructed on the site of the former Imperial Distillery, which was demolished in 2013. Imperial, founded in 1897 […]
Dailuaine is a distillery that is rarely seen in the single malt market, with its appearances mostly limited to Diageo’s Flora & Fauna range and occasional independent bottlings. However, despite this, it plays a significant role in the whisky industry by providing whisky for blends. Its distinctive character is far from dull, offering a heavy, […]
Sulphur in whisky has become a point of interest and occasional controversy, often misunderstood in the context of the whisky-making process. There are two main sources of sulphur in whisky: 1. **Sulphur Candles**: Traditionally, sulphur candles were used in casks to prevent bacterial infections, particularly in Jerez where casks were custom-made for the whisky industry. […]
Cragganmore, located by the Spey River at Ballindalloch, is renowned for its complexity. It uses lightly peated malt, long fermentation, unique still shapes, and worm tubs to create a rich and meaty new make that evolves with citrus, spice, and fruity notes as it matures. The distillery was established in 1869 by John Smith, a […]
Cardhu, one of the oldest distilleries in Speyside, has a fascinating history that traces back to 1811, when John Cumming and his wife Helen took over a farm and began illicit whisky production. Helen is believed to have been in charge of operations, with the farm also serving as an early warning station for moonshiners […]
