Glenrothes

Introduction:

Glenrothes Whisky is known for not displaying age statements on its labels. Instead, it releases Vintage Releases, which are Whiskies made from spirits distilled in the same year, each offering a unique aroma profile. In addition to the Vintage Releases, Glenrothes also has other expressions called “Reserves,” such as the Glenrothes Sherry Cask Release, made exclusively from Sherry casks, and the Glenrothes Alba Reserve, aged in ex-Bourbon casks.

Production:

This section focuses on the production process at Glenrothes Distillery. Location and Water Source: Situated at the Foot of Mannoch Hills, Utilizing Natural Springs Glenrothes Distillery is located at the base of the Mannoch Hills, where it benefits from two natural springs, Ardcanny and Brauchhill, which provide the water used in production.

Malting Tamdhu Maltings Located Nearby, On-Site Milling, Mashing, Distilling, and Rare Cooperage

Unlike some distilleries, Glenrothes does not perform malting on-site. Instead, the malted barley is sourced from Tamdhu Maltings, located approximately 12 miles away. However, Glenrothes carries out milling, mashing, and distilling operations on-site. A notable feature is their rare cooperage, where barrels are crafted-an uncommon practice in modern distilleries.

The Mashing Process:

This section describes the mashing process at Glenrothes Distillery.

Large Mash Tun 5 – Ton Capacity, Triple Water Infusion

Glenrothes uses a large mash tun with a capacity of 5 tons. The mash tun is filled three times with hot water for each mashing cycle. The first two waters wash out the sugar from the malt, known as wort, and are cooled before being transferred to the wash-backs. The third water washes out any remaining sugars and is used as the first water for the next mashing. Fermentation 20 Wash-backs, 12 Oregon Pine, 8 Stainless Steel, Distiller’s Yeast, 55-Hour Fermentation Glenrothes has 20 wash-backs for fermentation, with 12 made of Oregon pine and 8 made of stainless steel. They use distiller’s yeast, and the fermentation process lasts approximately 55 hours, resulting in a beer with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 8%.

The Distillation Process:

This section covers the distillation process at Glenrothes Distillery.

10 Pot Stills 5 Wash Stills, 5 Spirit Stills, Tall Shape for Light, Fruity, and Elegant Spirit

Glenrothes operates with a total of 10 pot stills, consisting of 5 wash stills and 5 spirit stills. The tall shape of the stills contributes to the production of a light, fruity, and elegant spirit.

Distillate Collection Heart of the Run at 68-72% ABV, Comprising 20% of the Distillate During distillation the heart of the run, which represents about 20% of the total distillate, is collected at a strength of 68-72% ABV. This portion is considered the highest quality and is used for maturation.

Cooperage and Warehouses:

This section discusses the use of casks and the maturation process at Glenrothes Distillery.

Cask Filling Above-Average Strength at 68.9% ABV, Mainly Sherry Casks for Fruity Aroma, Bourbon Casks for Balanced Aromas

At Glenrothes, casks are filled with a higher strength of 68.9% ABV, which is higher than what many other distilleries choose. The casks used are predominantly Sherry casks, which contribute to the fruity and aromatic characteristics that Glenrothes Whisky is known for. Additionally, Bourbon casks are used to create a well-balanced flavor profile.

Matured Whisky Careful Monitoring and Selection for Bottling at Peak Maturity

The Whisky matured at Glenrothes Distillery is carefully monitored and selected for bottling at the peak of its maturity. This ensures that the Whisky achieves the desired flavor and quality before being released.

History:

This section provides a brief overview of the history of Glenrothes Distillery.

Establishment Construction Started in 1878, Completed by Robert Dick and William Grant in 1879

Construction of Glenrothes Distillery began in 1878 under the direction of James Stewart. However, due to financial difficulties, Robert Dick and William Grant took over and completed the construction, with production starting in December 1879.

Expansions and Challenges Fires, Explosion, World Events, and Rebuilding Efforts

Over the years, Glenrothes faced various challenges, including fires in 1897 and 1922, as well as an explosion in 1903 that severely damaged the distillery. Despite these setbacks, the distillery was repaired and rebuilt. External factors such as Prohibition, the First World War, and the Wall Street Crash in 1929 also impacted production but did not permanently close the distillery.

New Era Sale of Glenrothes Vintage 1979 in 1994, Ownership Transfers

In 1994, Glenrothes began selling its Vintage 1979 release, marking the start of a new era for the distillery. In 1999, the Edrington Group acquired Highland Distillers, including Glenrothes, but later sold the distillery to Berry Bros & Rudd in 2010.

Visitor Center:

This section explains that Glenrothes Distillery does not have a visitor center and is not open to the public, meaning it is not accessible for tours or visits.
Visitor information
The Glenrothes
Highland Distillers Ltd
100 Queen Street
Glasgow
G1 3DN
Email: hello@theglenrothes.com