Roseisle Distillery, part of Diageo, represents a modern approach to whisky production with its ability to craft a range of different whisky styles. Located in Scotland, it was specifically designed to produce varying characters of spirit, utilizing six of its seven pairs of stills that can switch between stainless steel and copper shell and tube condensers. This flexibility allows Roseisle to tailor its whisky profile depending on the desired style.
To create a light, grassy spirit, Roseisle employs long fermentation (over 90 hours), slow distillation with air rests, and copper condensers for the final distillation. On the other hand, for a heavier whisky, the stainless steel condensers are used, which lack the extended “conversation” with copper and result in a weightier spirit. Additionally, by adjusting the mashing and fermentation processes, a nutty, malty profile can be achieved. The style currently being produced is distinctly different from other Diageo distilleries such as Glen Ord or Royal Lochnagar.
Before its construction, Roseisle was met with skepticism, with some speculating that it would lead to the closure of smaller distilleries in Diageo’s portfolio. However, Roseisle’s opening marked the beginning of Diageo’s £1 billion investment in expanding its distillery capacity across Scotland, rather than shutting down existing sites. Despite its size—producing 10 million litres per year—Roseisle is smaller than Glenfiddich and has ushered in a new era of distillery building.
The distillery also emphasizes sustainability, with a biomass plant generating much of its own energy. Furthermore, a heat recovery system captures waste heat from the distillery to assist with operations at nearby Burghead maltings and the Roseisle facility itself, making it a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious distillery.
