Balblair Distillery
One of the oldest distilleries of Scotland
Balblair is one of Scotland’s twelve distilleries situated in the Inverness area (north of the Highlands) and more precisely close to the village of Edderton. The distillery was founded in 1790 by John Ross. The distillery stayed in the family until it was purchased in 1894 by Alexander Cowan who made his fortune as a Wine Merchant. He rebuilt the building and modernized all production tools to brings Balbaire in the modern time. He was forced, because of difficult economic times, to stop production and close the distillery in 1911.
Even though the distillery was closed the last drop of whisky produced before the World War left the warehouse in 1932. In 1939 the buildings were occupied/commandeered by the army until 1945, may be because the distillery was dry. Balblair distillery stayed closed until 1948 when Robert James « Bertie » Cumming bought the distillery.
During the second part of the 20th century the distillery changed hands several times. In 1996 Balblair Distillery was purchased by the Inver House Distillers Ltd. who already owned local brands as Pulteney, Knockdhu, Speyburn and Balmenach. This group fought the decision to about bears single vintage Scotch Whiskies.
What is the signature of your Whisky? Balblair’s signature style is fruity, fragrant, full bodied and complex. Achieved by not rushing any part of the production process. Slow mashing, long fermentation, slow running stills. High quality casks and matured in traditional dunnage style warehouses i.e Earthen floors, thick stone walls, low roofs and casks stowed 3 high only. Quality is what we are all about – not quantity.The signature notes of our Balblair Whiskies are fruits, vanilla and spices. Our Whiskies are full bodied and un-peated. These are evident in blind tasting.
Balblair is one of the few distilleries to produce a single vintages. Balblair Whiskys are round, fruity, aromatic and generous/gourmand.
What does Scotch Whisky mean to you?
Scotch Whisky has been my working life for 28 years now. I am very proud to have been involved in producing and sharing a truly wonderful, unique drink.
Scotch is magic for me as it is an unique product and integral to the Scottish employment and economy. To be involved in the creation of something that is enjoyed the world over makes me immensely proud. I am very lucky to have a job I love and to be working with a great team who take great pride in the place they work and the whisky they make and promote.
If you have to describe the distillery, the spirit of this place in just 3/4 words?
I would say : Beautiful, historic, quality, proud
Where does the name of your distillery come from? «Balblair» is a Gaelic word for battlefield. It’s certainly due to the numerous Viking invasions suffered by the region.
If you have to describe the distillery, the spirit of this place in just 3/4 words?
It is the oldest working distillery in the Highlands. It was established in 1790. We are pround to be a Star of the Ken
Loach film Angels’ Share.
(Thank you to John MacDonald, Balblair Distillery Manager)