Introduction

This evening, I am focusing on Tullibardine Distillery in central Scotland, one of my favourite small whisky distilleries.

Tour group inspect stills.

Information on Tullibardine Distillery, Scotland-Part 1

Fermentation at Tullibardine Distillery

This  distillery does not have the profile of some of the Speyside or Islay malts but, arguably, this rarity factor does add to its appeal. Moreover, location at Blackford, on the  main A9 tourist route, near Gleneagles and between Stirling and Perth is very convenient.

From a whisky region perspective, Tullibardine is categorised as a Highland Malt.

Tullibardine sits at foot of the Ochills in Perthshire from where the key water supply is obtained. Beer has been brewed on this site for hundreds of years. There is a record of the purchase by King James IV of  a supply of beer at the location in celebration of his coronation in 1488.

Tullibardine is one of Scotland’s younger distilleries, dating from 1949 when established by Welshman, William Delme-Evans. Subsequently, the distillery underwent many ownership changes including  ‘mothballing’ for a period.  Now under ownership of French wine company, Picard Vins & Spiritueux which also owns the Highland Queen brand, a blend.

From a tour experience perspective, this is one of my favourite distilleries. The distilling area is very compact. Thus visitors can get close to smells, steam and various vapours as malt barley is converted to spirit. This video clip gives a flavour for the experience. The distillery tour guides are very good and display a passion for and knowledge of the product.

Information on Tullibardine Distillery, Scotland-Part 2

• 6.2 ton stainless steel semi- lauter mash tun.
• Capacity 3.0m litres p.a.
• 10 stainless steel washbacks,
• Two pairs of stills.
• Visitor Centre has been expanded to include a new bottling plant and cooperage.
• A new range of products has been introduced together with fresh focus on the American market.
• Range includes: Tullibardine Sovereign,  225 Sauternes, 228 Burgundy, 500 Sherry. a 15 year- old
• and a 18 year old. The Custodian Collection includes ultra rare expressions including a 60 year-old.

Tullibardine single malt: 500 with sherry finish

More Information

For more information on distilleries and many other aspects of Scotland please refer to the Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindle.