Invergordon Distillery, located in the far north-east of Scotland, is a significant example of grain distilling in a region more traditionally associated with malt whisky. Founded in 1959, Invergordon began operations in 1961, at a time when Scotland’s central belt dominated the grain distilling industry due to access to a wide range of grains and proximity to major markets. However, Invergordon, with its deep-water port and access to cereal crops, proved to be an ideal site for grain distilling, despite being located away from the more established areas.
The town of Invergordon itself has a history of surprising its inhabitants and visitors alike. It was established as an ‘improved’ town in the early 18th century by local landowner William Gordon, who drained the surrounding land and cultivated arable crops. By the end of the century, Invergordon was being developed into a manufacturing village, leveraging its port for trade. It was also used as a naval base during WWI but shifted toward industrial development after the Navy’s withdrawal in 1956. The area later became home to an aluminium smelter and is located near the oil rig repair yard at Nigg Bay, adding to its appeal as an industrial hub.
Invergordon Distillery’s establishment came at a perfect time, as the global Scotch whisky market was expanding, particularly in North America. In 1965, the Ben Wyvis single malt distillery was established nearby, but it closed in 1977. The distillery passed through a series of owners and eventually became part of Whyte & Mackay in 1993.
In the early 1990s, Invergordon Distillers released a 10-year-old single grain whisky, The Invergordon, aimed at the female market. Although well-regarded, this product was eventually withdrawn a few years later. Despite this, Invergordon remains an important piece of Scotland’s grain distilling legacy.
