The Old Pulteney Distillery, founded in 1826 by James Henderson, is located in Wick, on the northeastern coast of Scotland. The distillery is known for its maritime influences, which give the whisky a distinctive character. The whiskies mature near the coast, imparting a salty note and a unique flavor influenced by the sea air.
A popular whisky from the distillery is the Old Pulteney 12 Years, aged in ex-bourbon casks, offering a flavor profile with notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of salt. The Old Pulteney 15 Years stands out due to additional aging in ex-sherry casks, providing deeper complexity with aromas of dark fruits and spices.
The distillery also offers limited editions such as the Old Pulteney 18 Years and the exclusive Old Pulteney 25 Years, which are particularly complex and rich in flavor due to their long aging and use of high-quality casks.
The production process at Old Pulteney is traditional and artisanal. The water is sourced from the nearby Loch Hempriggs, and maturation takes place in warehouses directly on the coast, giving the whisky its characteristic maritime influence. Old Pulteney is often referred to as "The Maritime Malt," highlighting the distillery's close connection to the sea and the coastal influence on the whisky.
Old Pulteney is currently owned by Inver House Distillers and produces around 900,000 liters of single malt Scotch whisky annually. The distillery also offers tours where visitors can learn about the production process and taste the various whisky types.
