Glenburgie Distillery
History of Glenburgie Distillery
Early Beginnings and Ownership Changes
Glenburgie Distillery, also known as Glenburgie-Glenlivet, Glen Burgie, or Glenburry, is located near Alves, Moray. The distillery’s origins trace back to 1810, initially known as Kilnflat.
Official records from 1829 mark its formal establishment. After financial difficulties, it closed in 1870 but was renamed Glenburgie in 1871 and reopened in 1878 under Charles Kay.
Ownership changes led to Alex Fraser and Company taking over around 1880, followed by incorporation in 1895. The distillery faced liquidation in 1925 and closures from 1927 to 1935.
Pioneering Female Leadership and Modern Developments
Margaret Nichol, one of the first female managers of any whisky distillery, ran Glenburgie around the time it was sold to Hiram Walker in 1936.
A significant development occurred in 1958 with the installation of two Lomond stills, producing whisky named Glencraig, distinct from the main distillery output. This experiment lasted until 1981 when the Lomond stills were replaced.
Rebuilding and Expansion
Glenburgie ceased production in 2000, undergoing a complete rebuild in 2003-2004, retaining only the original stills. In 2006, two more stills were added, increasing its production capacity to 4.2 million liters of pure alcohol annually.
Distillery Features and Production
The distillery is situated on an estate near the Mill Buie hills close to Kinloss. Most of Glenburgie’s whisky is used in blends, primarily for Ballantine’s and Old Smuggler.
The distillery’s focus on quality and innovation has made it a significant contributor to the Scotch whisky industry.
Awards Won by Glenburgie Distillery
Scottish Whisky Awards 2023: Glenburgie 27-year-old (North Star Spirits) won a Silver award.
Glenburgie Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Glenburgie Distillery Overview
- Location: Near Forres, famous for Knock Hill and its association with Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
- History: Established in 1810, originally known as Kinflat.
- Ownership: Operated by Allied Distillers Ltd.
- Production Status: Operational.
Distillery Features
- Water Source: Local springs.
- Stills: 2 Wash Stills and 2 Spirit Stills.
- Cask Woods: Mainly ex-bourbon barrels.
- Output: Used in Ballantine’s blended whisky and Glenburgie Eight-Year-Old Single Malt.
- Tasting Notes for 1968, 40%: Fragrant, herbal aroma; light, delicate, aromatic flavor with a pleasant finish. Recommended as a good pre-dinner malt.
Tour Experience
- Location Description: Set in a very attractive landscaped location.
- Tour Availability: By appointment only.
- Contact Information: Telephone – 01343 850258, Fax – 01343 850480.
- Visitor Capacity: 100 visitors per annum.
- Directions: Off A96, 3.5 miles East of Forres, Glenburgie, Moray.
Flask & Barrel Review of Glenburgie Distillery
As someone who’s been around the block with distillery tours, I have to say, Glenburgie Distillery really stands out. I’m giving it a well-deserved 4.7 out of 5.
Tucked away near Forres, this place isn’t just a distillery; it’s like stepping into a piece of whisky history. Established way back in 1810 and originally called Kinflat, the distillery has this old-world charm that’s hard to find these days.
The tour itself? Superb. It’s not your run-of-the-mill walk-through. They’ve got these traditional methods, and seeing those two wash and spirit stills in action is something else.
The staff know their stuff and make the whole thing feel personal, not like some rehearsed script. And the tasting, oh boy, that 1968 40%? It’s a light, aromatic dream. Perfect pre-dinner sip.
What docks it from a perfect score? Well, tours are by appointment only, so it’s a bit of a hassle to plan. And I would’ve loved a deeper dive into their cask selection.
But hey, that’s just me nitpicking. Glenburgie’s got this intimate, almost exclusive feel that any whisky aficionado would appreciate. If you’re into whisky, this is one tour you don’t want to miss. Cheers!
What To Do Nearby Glenburgie Distillery
- Benromach Distillery: Explore this traditional Speyside distillery renowned for its characterful spirits. Although the visitor center is currently closed, they offer virtual tours. (0.8 miles from Forres).
- Sueno’s Stone: Marvel at the tallest carved standing stone in Scotland, rich in history and intricate carvings, dating back to the 9th/10th centuries. (0.8 miles from Forres).
- Brodie Castle: Discover this 16th-century castle, home to the Brodie clan for over 400 years, featuring an impressive art collection and well-preserved architecture. (3.9 miles from Forres).
- Burgie Arboretum: Stroll through 600 acres of diverse trees, flowers, and a Japanese Garden. Directions include a turn onto ‘Burgie Mains’ from the A96 towards Elgin, then about a mile to the arboretum sign.
- Culbin Forest: Ideal for walking and cycling, this forest has a network of tracks and is an RSPB reserve, perfect for birdwatching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Glenburgie Distillery?
- The White Hart: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 3-5 Tolbooth St, Forres IV36 1PH, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +447762004772.
- The Bonnie Beastie: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2 Tolbooth St, Forres IV36 1PH, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441309747003.
- Forres Tandoori: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 39 High St, Forres IV36 1PB, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441309671007.
What hotels are near Glenburgie Distillery?
- Ramnee Hotel: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Victoria Rd, Forres IV36 3BN, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441309672410.
- Crown & Anchor Inn: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Findhorn, Forres IV36 3YF, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441309690243.
- The Carisbrooke: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is The Carisbrooke, Drumduan Rd, Forres IV36 1BS, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441309672585.