Kininvie" brand logo on a black background.

Kininvie Distillery

Region
  • Scotland
Awards
Website
  • http://www.wgrant.com/
Phone Number
  • +441340820000
Address
  • United Kingdom, Keith, Dufftown

Industrial building near forest with concrete silo.

History of Kininvie Distillery


Establishment and Early Operations of Kininvie Distillery

Kininvie Distillery, situated near Dufftown in Speyside, was established in 1990 by William Grant & Sons. Known for owning renowned distilleries like Glenfiddich and Balvenie, the company launched Kininvie primarily to assist in producing malt whiskey for their various blends.

Operational Synergy with Balvenie

Sharing many of its production facilities with Balvenie, Kininvie showcases a unique operational model. This synergy allows for a collaborative and efficient production process within the family company.

Design and Production Focus

Unique in its architecture, Kininvie features a stillhouse with nine stills. Initially built with fewer stills in 1990, the distillery expanded to its current capacity in 1994.

Malt Whiskey Production

Kininvie, distinct from its sister distilleries, does not have its own mashing and malting facilities. These processes are carried out at Balvenie. The distillery is dedicated to crafting a malt with a distinct, often floral character, renowned for its soft and tongue-coating quality.

Kininvie’s Whiskies and Evolution

Kininvie’s branded whisky journey began with the limited edition Hazelwood series, dedicated to Janet Sheed Roberts, William Grant’s granddaughter. These early releases set the tone for the distillery’s unique and sought-after single malts.

Expansion of Single Malt Range

The distillery first bottled whisky under its own name in 2013, starting with a 23-year single malt distilled in 1990. This was followed by a 17-year-old variant and a range of experimental whiskies launched in 2019, expanding Kininvie’s portfolio and showcasing its innovative spirit.

Contribution to Blended Whiskies

Kininvie plays a pivotal role in producing blended whiskies for William Grant & Sons. Its malt is a vital component in popular blends like Clan MacGregor and Monkey Shoulder, contributing significantly to the company’s blended whisky portfolio.

Current Status and Legacy

As of the latest updates, Kininvie continues to operate, steadily contributing to the Scotch whisky industry. The distillery, not open to public tours, maintains an air of mystery and exclusivity, adding to its allure in the whisky world.

Kininvie Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The Kininvie Distillery, located on the same property as Glenfiddich and Balvenie in Speyside, does not offer tours to visitors.

What To Do Nearby Kininvie Distillery

  • Dufftown Distilleries Walk:
    • This relaxed walking tour offers a unique look at the past and present distillery sites of Dufftown.
    • Options include a standard tour visiting seven sites like Dufftown, Mortlach, Glendullan, Parkmore, Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie.
    • The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and costs around £24.
    • Extended and connoisseur tours are available for more in-depth experiences.
  • Glenfiddich Distillery Visit:
    • Located close to Kininvie, Glenfiddich offers various tours to learn about whisky-making.
    • Visitors can enjoy tastings and even blend their own whisky.
    • The distillery is renowned for its rich history and innovation in the whisky industry.
  • Balvenie Distillery Tours:
    • As Kininvie shares facilities with Balvenie, a visit here can provide insights into some of Kininvie’s processes.
    • Balvenie offers a range of tours with detailed explanations of the whisky production process.
  • Exploring Dufftown:
    • Dufftown is known as the ‘Malt Whisky Capital of the World’ and has a rich whisky heritage.
    • Visitors can enjoy local whisky bars and shops, offering a wide range of Scotch whiskies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Kininvie Distillery?

Seven Stills French Restaurant and Malt Whisky Bar/Lounge: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. This French restaurant is located at 30 Fife St, Dufftown. Contact details for reservations are +441340820880.

Spice of India: This restaurant is rated 4.5 stars on Google Maps and is located at 9-13 Church St, Dufftown, Keith AB55 4AR, United Kingdom.  For reservation contact at +441340820820.

Toots: This restaurant has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps and is located at 51 New St. Contact details for reservations are +441340832200.

What hotels are near Kininvie Distillery?

The Aberlour Hotel: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. This 3-star hotel offers a relaxed atmosphere with a casual restaurant. Their contact details are +441340871287, and the address is 87 High St, Aberlour AB38 9QB, United Kingdom.

The Craigellachie Hotel: This hotel has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. As a 4-star hotel, it features tranquil rooms and a whisky bar. The contact information is +441340881204 and the address is Victoria St, Speyside Way, Craigellachie, Aberlour AB38 9SR, United Kingdom.

Commercial Hotel Dufftown: With a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps, this hotel is located in Dufftown. The contact number is +441340820313 and the address for reservations is 4 Church St, Dufftown, Keith AB55 4AR, United Kingdom.