Glencadam

Introduction:

Glencadam offers a selection of official bottlings, which are whiskies produced by the distillery itself. These include various age statements such as the 10, 12, 14, 15, 21, 25, and 30 – year – old expressions. These bottles showcase the different maturation periods and flavor profiles of Glencadam whisky. The 12 – year – old expression is notable as it undergoes a finishing process in port wood casks, imparting unique characteristics to the whisky. The 14 – year – old expression, on the other hand, is aged in Oloroso Sherry casks, adding rich and sweet notes to the whisky. Independent bottlers such as Gordon & MacPhail and Douglas Laing also release limited editions of Glencadam whisky. Glencadam whisky is not only enjoyed as a single malt but is also used as an important component in blends such as Stewart’s “Cream of the Barley” and Ballantine’s.

Production:

Glencadam Distillery is located in Angus, Scotland, and holds the distinction of being the only active distillery in the town. The production process starts with the sourcing of water from the nearby Barry Burn, known for its softness. This soft water contributes to the smooth and creamy characteristics of Glencadam whisky. The distillery has a relatively modest production capacity of 1.4 million liters of alcohol per year, ensuring attention to detail and a focus on quality. Additionally, Glencadam has a filling and bottling plant on-site, allowing for efficient packaging and distribution of their official bottlings.

Pot Stills:

The heart of Glencadam’s production lies in its pot stills. The distillery operates with one wash still and one spirit still, both of which have a capacity of 14,000 liters. These pot stills are designed in a pear shape with wide spherical lids and gradually narrowing necks. This shape allows for the separation of alcohol vapor during distillation, leading to the creation of a distinct and flavorful spirit. Glencadam’s pot stills play a crucial role in shaping the character and quality of their whisky.

Maltings:

While Glencadam distillery does not possess on-site maltings, it sources its malted barley from a nearby industrial site. The use of non-peated malt is a notable characteristic of Glencadam whisky. The distillery carefully selects the barley, ensuring the highest quality standards for the production process. Over the years, Glencadam has developed relationships with reliable malt suppliers to maintain consistency and craftsmanship in their whiskies. They primarily use barley from the Black Isle region, as well as from the Lowlands, ensuring a diverse range of flavor profiles in their expressions.

Warehouse:

Glencadam takes pride in its extensive on-site warehouse facility, consisting of eleven bonded warehouses. Within these warehouses, the majority of Glencadam Single Malt whisky is matured in ex-Bourbon casks, which provide distinct flavors and characteristics to the whisky. The long maturation process in these casks allows the whisky to develop complexity, depth, and richness over time. Glencadam’s warehouse facility is a testament to their commitment to aging their whisky under optimal conditions to achieve the desired flavor profile.

History:

Glencadam distillery has a rich and eventful history. It was officially founded in 1825 by George Cooper, although there is some debate regarding its exact establishment date. Ownership of the distillery changed hands several times throughout the nineteenth century, with notable figures such as David Scott and Alexander Miln Thompson involved. In the twentieth century, Glencadam experienced relative stability under the ownership of Hiram Walker & Sons, whoacquired the distillery in 1954. Hiram Walker & Sons implemented significant refurbishments and modernization efforts, including the addition of two new stills in 1959, ensuring the distillery’s continued growth and production of quality whisky. In 1987, Allied Lyons acquired Hiram Walker & Sons, marking a new chapter for Glencadam. This acquisition led to Glencadam’s incorporation into blends such as Stewart and Ballantine’s, further expanding the reach and recognition of their whisky. In 2000, the distillery faced a brief period of mothballing due to overproduction, but it was later acquired by Angus Dundee Distillers. Under new ownership, Glencadam was revitalized, and a 15-year-old Single Malt expression was released. In 2008, the brand underwent a re-design and re-release, aiming to enhance the visibility and reputation of Glencadam as a distinguished whisky producer.

Visitor’s Centre:

While Glencadam does not have a dedicated visitor’s centre on-site, arrangements can be made for private tours. This allows whisky enthusiasts and visitors to explore the distillery, witness the production process, and gain insights into Glencadam’s heritage and craftsmanship. The private tours offer an opportunity to delve into the history, production techniques, and aging process of Glencadam whisky, providing a unique and immersive experience for whisky lovers.

Visitor information:

Glencadam Distillery
Douglas Fitchett (Distillery Manager)
Smithfield Road
Brechin
Angus
DD9 7PA
Tel: +44 (0)1356-622217
Email: sales@angusdundee.co.uk