Lowland

Port Dundas 12 Year Single Grain

Port Dundas 12 Year Single Grain

Situated just north of Glasgow, Port Dundas distillery was closed in 2010 after distilling grain whisky for almost two hundred years. By the end of the 19th century, it was one of the largest whisky makers in Scotland by volume, at over two million gallons a year. The grains used were barley, rye, and most curious of all, American corn. Unlike many distilleries that fell into closure due to poor sales or temperance movements, the decision to close Port Dundas was made due to another distillery in Diageo’s portfolio, Cameronbridge, having a higher production capacity. Even though the distillery was demolished in 2011, enough product remains for Diageo to have two offerings at least in the American, this Port Dundas 12 Year and an 18 Year grain scotch.

Glenkinchie 12 Year

Glenkinchie 12 Year

Located only a short distance from Edinburgh in the peaceful farmlands of East Lothian, Glenkinchie is one of the few Lowland distilleries left operating in Scotland. Known as “The Edinburgh Malt,” the distillery first opened in 1837, closed for a time, then reopened under new ownership at the end of the 19th century and has remained in production ever since. Not a large producer of single malts, there are currently only two offerings: this 12 year and a Distiller’s Edition, which ages an additional two years in Amontillado sherry casks. Thankfully, under ownership of the Diageo conglomerate, they remain in relative constant supply.

Auchentoshan American Oak

Auchentoshan American Oak

The Lowland region of Scotland makes the Campbeltown region look crowded with distilleries. While encompassing a large area on the map, this region is only home to a few operating distilleries. This may be due to a large portion of the population being located in the south and thus not suitable for distilleries, as they need rather pure ingredients. That being said, the few distilleries that are there are doing well and making an effort in the market. Auchentoshan in particular has garnered positive reviews and offers a respectable stable of offerings, both in their regular and special editions. Their main range has a respectable 12, 18 and 21 year old, plus a triple wood and this American Oak, aged in first-fill American bourbon oak casks. We reviewed the Auchentoshan Classic but felt this distillery deserved more attention.