Distillery profile

Inchgower Distillery

Explore the distillery's history, craft, production, and the distinctive character of its whiskies.

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Company history

  • Inchgower Distillery was founded in 1871 by Alexander Wilson near Buckie in Speyside.

  • After the Wilson family’s bankruptcy in 1936, the distillery came under the ownership of the local council.

  • It was later bought by Arthur Bell for £3,000 and became part of Bell’s brand, later under Guinness and ultimately Diageo.

  • The distillery has undergone modernization and changes in ownership, with Diageo as the current owner in recent times.

  • In 2006, the facility underwent major renovations, including the installation of a closed fermentation system for better control over the whisky style.

  • It has also been known for releases such as 27-year-old bottlings from 1976, which have received recognition.

Production Details

  • Location: close to the coastal town of Buckie in Speyside, contributing to the distillery's character.

  • Production methods: rapid mashing with hot second water, short fermentation, and slanted Lyne arms on pot stills, which capture heavier elements in the spirit.

  • Underlying waxiness in the spirit (waxiness) and a pronounced coastal profile, often compared to Clynelish.

  • Capacity: around 3.2 million litres per year.

  • Modernisation and control: 2006 renovations and further improvements in production management.

Whisky Products

  • The range includes single malts and special releases; the distillery has been a key source for the blends in Bell’s, and later Guinness/Diageo.

  • Notable releases include the renowned 27-year-old bottling from 1976.

Tasting notes

  • Character: pronounced coastal character with intense spiciness and saltiness.

  • Waxiness in the spirit and a tendency to be heavier due to the distillery's consistently produced elements and its distinctive run.

Events and News

  • 2006: significant renovations to improve control over the whisky’s style through a closed fermentation system.

  • Comprehensive news and updates are conveyed through official sources and the producer's web platforms, outlining the distillery's future direction.

Philosophy and Values

  • Focus on quality and craftsmanship through ongoing modernization and oversight to preserve the distillery's style.

  • Long-term dedication to delivering precise and characterful whisky while preserving traditions alongside innovation.