Teaninich is a rare example of a distillery without a mash tun, making it one of Diageo’s key producers for blending malts. In 2000, the distillery introduced a hammer mill and mash filter—the only one of its kind in a Scottish malt distillery—allowing for the production of ultra-clear wort. This innovation contributes to Teaninich’s unique character, marked by fragrant, grassy notes reminiscent of Japanese green tea and bison grass. Its fat stills add an oily texture without dulling the spirit’s vibrant acidity.
Teaninich’s 12-year-old expression is part of Diageo’s Flora & Fauna series, with occasional releases by independent bottlers. Founded in 1817, it was established by Napoleonic war hero and estate owner “Blind” Captain Hugh Munro. Munro, along with his brother General John Munro, was known as a compassionate landlord during the harsh Highland Clearances.
In 1869, John Ross leased the distillery, operating it until 1895, when it was taken over by Munro & Cameron, an Elgin-based blending firm. The distillery was later sold to DCL in 1933 by the trustees of Innes Cameron’s estate.
Teaninich has undergone several expansions. Larger stills were installed in 1946, followed by a doubling in 1962. In 1970, a second facility, referred to as “Teaninich A Side,” was constructed with six stills, operating alongside the original site until 1984 when the “B Side” was decommissioned.
History seems set to repeat itself, as Teaninich’s capacity is expected to double to 9 million litres annually, with plans underway to construct an additional distillery on the same site, capable of producing 10 million litres per year.
