Glen Garioch | Thompson Bros. | 2012/2023 | 11 Jahre | 48,5%

The Glen Garioch Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest whisky distilleries, was established in 1797 in Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire. Located in the fertile valley known as "The Granary of Aberdeenshire," Oldmeldrum provides the ideal conditions for producing top-quality barley, a crucial factor for high-quality whisky production​​. Glen Garioch, pronounced 'Geery', has made a name for itself by utilizing local resources and a long tradition of whisky making.

Over the years, the distillery has experienced several changes in ownership and was temporarily closed in 1968 due to water shortages. However, it resumed operations in 1972 thanks to the discovery of a new water source, "The Silent Spring". Today, the distillery is operated by Morrison Bowmore Distillers, part of the Japanese company Beam Suntory​​.

Glen Garioch is characterized by its deep, cereal, and spicy notes, achieved through short fermentation times. Aging transforms the whisky's heaviness into a thick, fat texture, allowing honeyed fruits and heather notes to emerge. Since the 1990s, the whisky has been produced unpeated, although in recent years, small batches of smoky barley have been used again​​.

The distillery draws its water from the mineral-rich burns in the Percock hills, also located in Aberdeenshire, contributing to the whisky's depth of flavor. With a production capacity of 1 million liters of pure alcohol per year, it currently operates at about three-quarters of its capacity, producing 700,000 liters annually​​.

Glen Garioch offers both official and independent bottlings, including 8-year-old, 12-year-old, and 15-year-old Founder's Reserve without an age statement, as well as a 12-year-old bottle. Occasionally, vintage bottles are also available, which sell quickly and are available in limited quantities. Independent bottlings have been critically acclaimed, including those by Douglas Laing and Co. and Gordon & MacPhail​​.

The distillery has a long and eventful history, surviving over two centuries of change and development. After its founding by Alexander Manson in 1797, the distillery changed hands several times until it was finally sold to T.G. Thomson & Co of Leith. William Sanderson, known for creating the famous blend "VAT 69", played a pivotal role in the distillery's history when he acquired a 50% stake in 1886​​.

Today, Glen Garioch is a proud member of the Beam Suntory portfolio, focusing exclusively on the production of Single Malt, with all its production going into single malt bottlings​​. Glen Garioch remains a hidden gem in the world of Scottish whisky, fascinating whisky enthusiasts and lovers alike with its rich history and unique character.

Thompson Bros: Pioneers of Independent Whisky Bottling

The Thompson Bros, led by brothers Phil and Simon Thompson, are an independent whisky bottler based in Dornoch in the Scottish Highlands. Known for their unique and high-quality whiskies, the Thompson Bros have made significant strides not only in whisky production but also in managing their own distillery and a renowned whisky bar.

Innovative and Sustainable Whisky Production

The Dornoch Distillery was established through a successful crowdfunding campaign, enabling the brothers to realize their vision of sustainable and innovative whisky production. The distillery is known for using traditional methods and focusing on artisanal quality. Particularly noteworthy is their commitment to environmentally friendly production methods, which they plan to continue in their new, sustainable distillery in Dornoch.

Exclusive and Diverse Product Range

The Thompson Bros are particularly known for their single cask bottlings, which they market under the name "Redacted Bros." in the U.S. These bottlings are noted for their exceptional quality and often humorous, sometimes cartoonish labels. Their product range includes not only whisky but also excellent gins marketed under the name "Mediterranean Organic Scottish Gin," known for their complex flavor profiles.

Future-Oriented and Community-Based

The future looks bright for the Dornoch Distillery and the Thompson Bros. With plans to expand their distillation operations and build a new, carbon-neutral distillery, they aim to establish Dornoch as a world-class whisky destination. The community and whisky enthusiasts worldwide can look forward to many exciting new developments and products in the coming years.

For whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs seeking authentic, handcrafted Scotch, the Thompson Bros offer a fascinating selection that embodies the rich tradition and modern innovation of Scottish whisky production.