During its time under Invergordon ownership, Tullibardine was known for producing a light, nutty malt primarily used in young blends aged in refill casks. When Tullibardine transitioned to focusing on single malt production, adjustments were made to the distillation process, emphasizing floral notes and reducing the nuttiness. A more modern wood policy was also adopted, with a significant increase in fresh casks.
The history of alcohol production in Blackford spans over six centuries. A brewery was active as early as 1488, when King James IV purchased a barrel of ale after his coronation at Scone, making it arguably the oldest public brewery in Scotland. Distillation also took root in the area, with William and Henry Bannerman founding the first Tullibardine distillery in 1798, though it only operated for a year. Another distillery run by Andrew Bannerman lasted until 1837. By the 19th century, Blackford had a maltings and three breweries, including the Gleneagles Brewery. The Gleneagles Brewery was the last to survive, closing in 1927, seemingly marking the end of Blackford’s brewing and distilling heritage.
In 1949, the renowned distillery architect William Delme-Evans revived this tradition by transforming the Gleneagles Brewery site into a new distillery, the first built in Scotland since 1900. Tullibardine was sold in 1953 to blender Brodie Hepburn, which expanded its capacity. It eventually passed through Invergordon to Whyte & Mackay, who mothballed the distillery while retaining its warehouses.
Tullibardine remained silent from 1994 until 2003, when a consortium acquired it. Their plan involved funding the distillery’s revival by developing part of the site as a retail park. Upon reopening, it was discovered that much of the whisky stock had been aged in old casks, suitable for blending but not ideal for single malts. An expensive re-casking program was undertaken, along with the creation of a variety of “finished” whiskies.
In 2011, the French wine and spirits company Picard acquired Tullibardine, bringing the Highland Queen and Muirhead’s brands into the fold. The failed retail park project was reclaimed, and a refreshed range of single malts was launched.
In homage to its brewing roots, Tullibardine partnered with Bridge of Allan Brewery to craft an ale aptly named “1488.”
