Glengoyne

Introduction:

Glengoyne Distillery offers a diverse range of official bottlings for whisky enthusiasts to enjoy. The core range includes a variety of age statements, such as the 10, 12, 15, 18, 21, and 25 – year – old expressions, showcasing the maturation process and the different flavor profiles that develop over time. Additionally, Glengoyne produces a Cask Strength Edition, known for its higher alcohol content, and special bottlings like the 35-year-old expression and the Teapot Dram, inspired by the distillery’s tradition of providing three drams to its hardworking stillmen during long shifts. While independent bottlings of Glengoyne whisky are relatively rare, a few have been released by whisky companies like Douglas Laing and Whisky Galore, mainly consisting of 12 and 13-year-old expressions.

Production:

Glengoyne Distillery has a production capacity of 1.1 million liters and draws its water from the nearby Campsie Fells, which contributes to the whisky’s unique character. One notable aspect of Glengoyne’s production process is its use of six Oregon pine wood washbacks, which play a role in fermentation. What sets Glengoyne apart is its location on the Highland Line, the official boundary between the Highlands and the Lowlands of Scotland. Although situated in the Highlands, Glengoyne’s whisky is matured in the Lowlands, resulting in a Highland Single Malt with a distinctive flavor profile. The distillery’s proximity to Glasgow, only a half-hour drive away, makes it easily accessible for visitors.

Pot Stills:

Glengoyne’s still room houses one wash still and two spirit stills. The wash still has a capacity of 12,500 liters, while each spirit still has a capacity of 4,000 liters. Both the wash and spirit stills feature reflux bowls in their intermediate sections, which contribute to the efficiency and quality of distillation. Glengoyne’s pot stills have a unique shape, characterized by wide, spherical lids that are shorter than average, spherical intermediate sections with tall conical necks, and nearly horizontal lyne arms. Notably, Glengoyne boasts the slowest distillation process in the UK, resulting in the formation of esters and contributing to the whisky’s sweet and smooth taste.

Maltings:

Unlike many other distilleries, Glengoyne does not use burning peat to dry its malted barley. Instead, it relies on dry air, which imparts distinct qualities to the whisky. The absence of peat drying allows the natural flavors of the malted barley to shine through, with the influence of the distillers being the primary factor in shaping the whisky’s taste. Glengoyne previously had its own floor maltings until 1910 when it began sourcing malt from an external maltster.

Warehouse:

Glengoyne has a series of dunnage warehouses on-site where its whisky matures. The distillery places great importance on the selection of oak casks, particularly those previously used to age sherry from Spain. These high-quality casks contribute to Glengoyne’s smooth and mature flavor profile, reflecting the attention to detail in cask management.

History:

Founded in 1833 by George Connell, Glengoyne Distillery has a rich history. The area where the distillery was established had a reputation for illicit whisky distillation, and Glengoyne itself was initially known as Burnfoot Distillery. Over the years, it underwent name changes, becoming Glenguin Distillery in 1861 and finally Glengoyne in 1906 when the Lang Brothers acquired the site.Glengoyne Distillery thrived under various owners throughout the 20th century. In 1965, Robertson & Baxter took over the distillery and embarked on a significant renovation, increasing the number of stills from two to three. Glengoyne also earned the distinction of being appointed by the late Queen Mother, receiving a ‘By Royal Appointment’ seal. After a successful period, the distillery was acquired by Ian MacLeod Distillers Limited in 2003, along with the Langs brand, marking a new chapter in Glengoyne’s journey. Since then, the distillery has released new expressions, including a 16-year-old Shiraz finish, Warehousemen’s Choices, and the relaunch of the 10 and 17-year-old bottlings.

Visitor’s Centre:

Glengoyne boasts a popular visitor’s centre, attracting around 40,000 visitors annually. The distillery offers a range of engaging tours that provide guests with the immersive “Glengoyne experience.” Visitors can explore the distillery’s facilities, learn about the whisky-making process, and appreciate the picturesque surroundings. The visitor’s centre also features a gift shop where guests can purchase a variety of Glengoyne merchandise and official bottlings. Additionally, the distillery is a sought-after venue for wedding receptions, and private hire of the entire complex is possible, providing a unique and memorable experience.

Visitor information:

Glengoyne Distillery
Dumgoyne
Near Killearn
Glasgow, G63 9LB
Tel: +44 (0)1360-550254
Email: reception@glengoyne.com