Glenlivet Distillery - Pioneers of Speyside Whisky

In the scenic landscape of the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by rolling hills and clear streams, lies the Glenlivet Distillery - a true icon of Scottish single malt whisky. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century, Glenlivet has grown into one of the most recognised and popular whisky brands in the world, and the distillery has been a true pioneer in the development of Speyside-style whisky.

History and Heritage

The story of the Glenlivet Distillery begins in the early 1800s, at a time when most Scotch whisky production was illegal. George Smith, the founder of the Glenlivet, was one of the first distillers in Scotland to obtain a legal distilling license, laying the foundation for the distillery we know today. For over two centuries, the Glenlivet Distillery has been committed to producing high-quality single malt whiskies that respect traditional Scottish distillation methods.

The production

Glenlivet is known for their classic Speyside style whisky, which is typically characterised by being fruity and floral with hints of honey and vanilla. This is achieved through a meticulous production process that includes malting, fermentation, distillation in pot stills and ageing in oak casks. Glenlivet is known for using a wide range of casks for maturation, including American oak, French oak and sherry casks, which adds an extra dimension to the flavour profile of their whiskies.

Whiskey Assortment

Glenlivet offers a wide range of whiskies, from their signature 12 year old single malt to their exclusive and rare older releases. A particularly notable one is their Nadurra range, which is non-chill filtered and bottled at cask strength, offering a more intense and natural flavour experience.

Distillery Location

Situated in the Speyside region, one of Scotland's most prominent whisky regions, the Glenlivet Distillery is surrounded by a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. Visitors can take part in guided tours where they can learn about the distillery's history, see the distillation process up close and, of course, taste some of their excellent whiskies.

The Glenlivet Distillery has played a pivotal role in shaping the Scotch whisky industry into what it is today. With their uncompromising focus on quality, respect for tradition and a willingness to innovate, Glenlivet has created a legacy that has defined Speyside whisky. Whether you are a long-time whisky lover or new to this fascinating world, Glenlivet is a name you should know.