Linkwood Distillery
History of Linkwood Distillery
Establishment and Early History of Linkwood Distillery
Linkwood Distillery’s journey commenced in 1821, founded by Peter Brown. The initial delay in production until 1824 was strategic, aligning with the 1823 Excise Act that made legal distilling more accessible. This careful planning set the stage for Linkwood’s enduring presence in the whisky industry.
Impact of Geography on Whisky Character
Nestled in Elgin, Morayshire, within the renowned Speyside region of Scotland, Linkwood Distillery benefits from its picturesque and strategically chosen location. The local springs near Millbuies Loch provide water crucial to the distinct character of Linkwood’s whisky, contributing to its unique flavor profile.
Development and Expansion
The distillery saw significant development in 1874 under William Brown, Peter’s son, who led a major rebuilding. Over the years, Linkwood underwent various ownership transitions, eventually becoming part of Scottish Malt Distillers Ltd. (SMD) in 1932, and later a member of the Diageo family, reflecting its growth and resilience in the whisky market.
Increasing Production Capacity
Following several upgrades, including a significant enhancement in 2012, Linkwood’s production capacity has grown exponentially. Currently, the distillery can produce over 5.5 million litres of whisky annually, signifying its scale and modernization in the distilling process.
Unique and Special Releases
Linkwood Distillery has released various unique editions over the years, including a coveted 26-year-old edition and a 12-year-old as part of Diageo’s Flora & Fauna range. Additionally, independent bottlings from Linkwood have gained popularity, adding diversity to its portfolio.
Traditional Distillation Philosophy
A notable period in Linkwood’s history was under the management of Roderick Mackenzie (1945-1963), whose belief in maintaining even the cobwebs to preserve whisky quality illustrates the distillery’s dedication to traditional methods. This conservative approach underscores Linkwood’s commitment to the heritage and craft of Scottish whisky-making.
Linkwood Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Unfortunately, the distillery is not open to the public for tours and operates on an invitation-only basis.
What To Do Nearby Linkwood Distillery
Local Wildlife and Scenery: Next to Linkwood Distillery, there is a reservoir that is home to a variety of local wildlife, including ducks and swans. This makes for a peaceful and scenic spot to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Tasting and Gift Shopping: Linkwood Whisky offers a variety of tasting sets and exclusive gift ranges. This can be an excellent opportunity to sample different whiskies and purchase unique gifts for friends and family.
Explore the Distillery’s History: Linkwood Distillery has a rich history dating back to 1821. Although it’s not open to the public for regular tours, its historical significance in the Speyside region makes it an exciting place for whisky lovers to learn about.
Local Events and Festivals: Watch for local whisky events and festivals. These events often showcase a variety of whiskies and offer unique tasting experiences. Examples include the Spirit of Speyside and the London Whisky Festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Linkwood Distillery?
Scribbles: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. To book a table, you can contact them at +441343542835 and their address is 152-154 High St, Elgin IV30 1BD, United Kingdom.
Orrin Restaurant & Bar: Rated 4.7 stars on Google Maps. To book a table, you can contact them at +441343357564 and their address is 2-6 South St, Elgin IV30 1LE, United Kingdom.
The Drouthy Cobbler: This restaurant has a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps. To book a table, you can contact them at +441343666006 and their address is 48a High St, Elgin IV30 1BU, United Kingdom.
What hotels are near Linkwood Distillery?
Premier Inn Elgin: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. The contact details are +443337777926 and the address is 15 Linkwood Way, Elgin IV30 1HY, United Kingdom.
The Mansefield: This hotel has a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps. To book your stay reach out to them at +441343540883and the address is Mansefield House Hotel, 2 Mayne Rd, Elgin IV30 1NY, United Kingdom.
Mansion House Hotel: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. To book your stay reach out to them at +441343548811 and the address is Elgin IV30 1AW, United Kingdom.