Closed Distilleries

The Closed Treasures of the Whisky World

In the world of whisky, there is a mystique surrounding closed distilleries. These old, silent buildings are more than just physical structures; they represent the history, craftsmanship, and evolving landscapes of the whisky industry. In this treatise, we will delve deeply into five such distilleries: Caperdonich, Port Ellen, Brora, Littlemill, and Rosebank.

Caperdonich

Located in the Speyside region of Scotland, Caperdonich was founded in 1897 by James Grant, the owner of the nearby Glen Grant distillery. For decades, Caperdonich produced high-quality single malt whisky, often used for blended whiskies of renowned brands.

However, in 2002, the curtains fell on Caperdonich. The owner, Pernod Ricard, decided to close the distillery due to market overcapacity and economic considerations. Since then, it has become a silent witness of change in the industry.

But Caperdonich's whisky lives on in the bottles scattered across the world. Their characteristic aromas of vanilla, fruit, and subtle spices remain a reminder of the distillery's glory days.

Port Ellen

Islay, known for its robust and smoky whiskies, was home to Port Ellen, a distillery that played a significant role in the island's history. Established in 1825, Port Ellen experienced its heyday during the whisky boom of the 19th century.

The distillery specialized in producing heavily peated whiskies, beloved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide. However, like many others, Port Ellen fell victim to the economic challenges of the whisky industry in the 1980s. In 1983, the distillery closed its doors, but its legacy lives on in the rare bottles still available.

What makes Port Ellen so special is not only the quality of its whisky but also the influence it had on the Islay style. Its smoky, medicinal tones have become a hallmark of many Islay whiskies produced today.

Brora

Brora, originally established as Clynelish in 1819, underwent a transformation in 1969 when a new distillery was built adjacent to the original. This new distillery was named Brora and produced a peated variation of the classic Clynelish style.

Brora quickly became known for its heavily peated whiskies, which were cherished by fans of smoky flavors. However, like many others, Brora closed its doors in 1983 due to economic difficulties in the whisky industry.

But Brora's story took an unexpected turn when Diageo, the current owner of the distillery, announced that it would reopen the distillery in 2020. This resurgence of Brora has reignited the interest of whisky enthusiasts worldwide and promises to add a new chapter to the rich history of the distillery.

Littlemill

Near Glasgow, on the banks of the River Clyde, once stood Littlemill, one of Scotland's oldest distilleries. Established in 1772, Littlemill had a tumultuous history, marked by periods of prosperity and adversity.

Littlemill produced a light and elegant style of whisky, often compared to the Lowland style. Although it enjoyed renown among whisky connoisseurs, Littlemill never managed to gain the global recognition that some of its contemporaries did.

After several closures and reopenings throughout its history, Littlemill ultimately closed its doors in 1994 and was later demolished. Despite its forgotten status, Littlemill lives on in the bottles produced during its brief but eventful existence.

Rosebank

Located in the Lowland region of Scotland, Rosebank was once one of the most esteemed distilleries in the country. Established in 1840, Rosebank was renowned for its elegant and refined whiskies, praised for their complexity and subtlety.

However, like many others, Rosebank fell victim to the challenges of the whisky industry in the late 20th century. In 1993, the distillery closed its doors due to economic difficulties, but its legacy continued to live on in the hearts and minds of whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

But the story of Rosebank took an unexpected turn when Ian Macleod Distillers announced its intention to reopen the distillery. After years of planning and restoration, Rosebank was reopened in 2021, adding a new chapter to the legend of this remarkable distillery.

Conclusion

The history of Caperdonich, Port Ellen, Brora, Littlemill, and Rosebank reflects the complexity and resilience of the whisky industry. These distilleries, though closed, continue to live on in the bottles they produced and in the hearts of whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

Their stories remind us that whisky is more than just a beverage; it is a reflection of culture, history, and craftsmanship. As we enjoy a glass of whisky, let us raise a toast to the distilleries that will forever live on in our memories. Cheers!