Craigellachie whiskies

History

The distillery was founded in 1891 by a group of partners that included Peter Mackie, the creator of the White Horse blend. For much of the 20th century its whisky went into blends, and in the 1960s it was almost completely rebuilt. At the end of the 1990s it passed to Bacardi along with Dewar’s. For a long time its malt could only be found in independent bottlings, until in the 2010s the house included it in a range of malts from little-known distilleries, which made it known.

House style

Craigellachie keeps outdoor worm tubs, which leave a spirit with a sulphury edge and a meaty character. With maturation that character turns into notes of ripe fruit, pineapple, honey, wax and spice, with plenty of body. It is a whisky that divides opinion: intense, unctuous and with a long finish. With age the meaty character softens and tropical fruit takes centre stage, although the unctuous texture remains.

Where to start

Craigellachie 13 Year Old is the main expression and the best way to get to know this very particular style. You’ll like it if you’re after Speyside malts with body and character, far from smooth, floral profiles. It’s interesting to try it next to a light malt from the area to notice how different two neighbouring distilleries can be. Take your time with it: it improves after a few minutes in the glass.

• Craigellachie 13 Year OldSingle malt · 46% ABV