Introducing The Glencairn Glass - How to appreciate your whisky.
Introducing The Glencairn Glass
The World’s Favourite Whisky Glass
How does The Glencairn Glass help you appreciate your whisky better?
The Glencairn Glass has always been known and celebrated as the official glass for Whisky but it isn’t just a vessel for holding whisky. It is a well-crafted tool designed to enhance every aspect of the whisky-drinking experience.
Glencairn Glass was born out of a collaboration between whisky experts, master blenders, and master distillers in the early 2000s
- Firstly, its wide crystal bowl allows you to fully appreciate the whisky’s color. This feature, inspired by traditional whisky tumblers, connects you to centuries of whisky culture where the colour describes the flavour.
- Moving on to the nose, the Glencairn Glass’s tapering mouth captures and intensifies the aroma, directing it straight to your senses. This enhances the olfactory experience, allowing you to detect subtle notes and complexities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- The unique patented shape of the glass further enhances the appreciation by allowing you to admire the whisky’s texture, viscosity, and legs. This aspect of the design, influenced by centuries of whisky craftsmanship, adds depth to the tasting experience, engaging both sight and touch.
Over the years, the Glencairn Glass has become more than just a piece of glassware—it's a symbol of whisky culture and tradition. Its adoption as the official glass for whisky by distilleries, tasting events, and enthusiasts alike speaks volumes about its significance
- Moreover, the glass’s comfortable grip ensures that you can hold it with ease, allowing the whisky to develop over time as it warms in your hand.
- The Glencairn Glass’s versatility is key to its role in whisky appreciation. Whether you prefer your whisky neat or with a splash of water, the glass accommodates both, ensuring that you can enjoy the spirit exactly as you like it.
- In summary, the Glencairn Glass helps you appreciate your whisky better by providing a sensory journey that engages sight, smell, touch, and taste. Its design, rooted in history and expertise, enhances every aspect of the whisky-drinking experience, allowing you to savour the magic of whisky.
Happy Earth Day with Glencairn Glass
Happy Earth Day 🌎
On World Earth Day, we are proud to highlight our efforts towards sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint. Here's how we are making a difference:
- Installed an extensive Solar PV and energy storage system, generating more energy than required for company operations, leading to complete energy independence. Excess electricity is sent back to the grid for local usage.
- Reduced gas usage by 60% with the new solar system. Over the next decade, we aim to eliminate gas energy entirely.
- Replaced the factory floor’s gas heating system with a new air conditioning system, further reducing gas usage by 60%, with ongoing reductions in the next 12 months.
These initiatives reflect our dedication to sustainability and our commitment to preserving the environment for future generations.
- Installed electric car charging points in the company car park, promoting the use of fully electric or hybrid vehicles.
- Implemented recycling and packaging initiatives in our day-to-day office functions, aiming to reuse and reduce instead of just recycling. We are committed to eliminating plastic packaging within the next five years.
- Collaborating with Viridor for cardboard and paper recycling, with plans to install an industrial shredding machine to reuse cardboard waste for packaging purposes, making the business self-sufficient in this area.
Spring Cocktail Glassware with Glencairn
Spring Cocktail Glassware by Glencairn Glass
As the days lengthen, so do the drinks at Glencairn Crystal. It’s gradually warming up here in East Kilbride (Scotland), and by ‘gradually,’ we mean it. The snow and ice have only just begun to retreat, making way for the gentle embrace of sunshine.
While we have gained worldwide recognition for our whisky glasses, you might be surprised to learn that we also provide a mixer glass and gin goblet, ideal for concocting delightful spring cocktails.
The Glencairn Goblet - The Perfect Spritz Glassware
This finely crafted crystal goblet is ideal for those who enjoy a Gin & Tonic or a fruit-filled gin cocktail, making it a must-have for any springtime drinks collection. Its spacious bowl offers plenty of room for ice, garnishes, and a generous serving of your preferred spirits.
Its adaptable design also makes it perfect for spritz-style cocktails like the classic Aperol Spritz. The wide rim of the goblet accommodates large ice cubes typically used in such drinks and provides ample space for bubbles and the infusion of aromatic citrus notes—a vital component of any spritz-style cocktail.
The Glencairn Mixer - The Perfect Cocktail Glass
Originally designed for the Canadian whisky industry who like their drinks on the rocks, the Glencairn Mixer has evolved into Glencairn’s most versatile glass yet. Perfect for spring-inspired spritz cocktails, negronis, or sours, it’s the go-to choice for mixing up refreshing beverages this season. Just take a cue from Onthesuaceagain , who whipped up a delightful spring negroni using this very glass. So, whether you’re enjoying drinks in the garden or hosting a cozy gathering indoors, the Glencairn Mixer is your trusted companion for all your springtime libations.
You can find the link to Inka’s special spring negroni here or you can follow the recipe bellow:
25ml The Botanist, 25 Mulassano Vermouth, 25ml Select Aperitivo, 10ml Strega, 22.5ml Blood orange, 7.5ml lemon, egg white
Glencairn Glass Celebrates International Whiskey Day
The Glencairn Glass - The Offical Glass of Whisky
International Whisky Day celebrates not just the spirit itself but also the culture and craftsmanship surrounding it. The Glencairn Glass, synonymous with whisky appreciation, characterises centuries-long efforts to elevate the whisky-drinking experience. As we mark International Whisky Day, we recognise the glass’s role in revolutionising how enthusiasts savour their drams, honouring both whisky’s heritage and the dedication behind its evolution.
The Glencairn glass is a testament to whisky enjoyment. Before its creation, whisky lacked a dedicated vessel for appreciation. Raymond Davidson, founder of Glencairn Crystal, addressed this gap by designing a glass tailored for whisky drinkers, collaborating with Master Blenders to perfect its form and function. Since its launch in 2001, the Glencairn Glass has earned global acclaim, becoming a staple at whisky festivals and bars worldwide, selling over 5 million units annually.
Glencairn Copita - The Blenders Choice
At Glencairn, we respect tradition alongside innovation. The Glencairn Copita, favoured by Master Blenders, is essential for nosing newly concocted spirits in distilleries. Its tulip-shaped bowl enables swirling before nosing, while the small opening concentrates the nose. As we celebrate International Whisky Day, we honour the Glencairn Copita’s role in whisky tradition and craftsmanship.
The Glencairn Mixer - The Versatile Whisky Glass
Whisky exploration takes many forms, with preferences ranging from neat to mixed. In collaboration with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario and the Canadian whisky industry, we crafted the Glencairn Mixer Glass, originally designed to showcase premium Canadian whiskies while accommodating mixers and ice. Over time, this versatile glass has transcended its original purpose, becoming a staple for various spirits and cocktails. Its evolution reflects the adaptability and influence of whisky culture, extending its impact beyond the realm of whisky itself. As we celebrate International Whisky Day, we recognise the enduring legacy of whisky culture, inspiring innovation and versatility in the world of spirits and cocktails.
Robert Burns and His Love for Whisky
Robert Burns & His Love for Whisky
Why is Robert Burns Night a night for tasting whisky?
Every year on January 25th, Scotland and beyond come together to celebrate Robert Burns, the national poet. People enjoy suppers, address haggis, and most importantly, sample whisky.
Robert Burns’s love for whisky is well-known. He was not shy about praising Scotland’s national drink in his works. Throughout history, reports suggest that Burns himself enjoyed a drink from time to time.
Burns Night is celebrated worldwide to honor the poet’s birth. Many of Burns’s poems and songs talk about whisky and hospitality. One famous poem is “Tam o’ Shanter.”
In “Tam o’ Shanter,” Burns describes the joy of sharing whisky with friends and facing life’s challenges. The poem captures the spirit of Burns Night celebrations.
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In “Scotch Drink,” Burns writes about how whisky can change a person’s mood. The poem defends whisky’s place in Scotland and addresses political issues with Scotch whisky producers.
Burns has consistently expressed his love for whisky in both songs and poems. In 1787, he wrote his famous song, known for toasting in whisky sessions, titled “A Bottle and A Friend,” as celebrated by Charles Maclean in his whisky tastings worldwide.
Burns’ most quoted and famous whisky writings come in 1786 with “The Author’s Earnest Cry and Prayer,” which starts addressed to “The Right Honourable and Honourable Scottish Representatives in The House of Commons.”
It is a passionate read in response to the Scotch Distillery Act of 1786, which imposed an extra duty on Scottish spirits exported to England, making it much more difficult for Scottish distillers to do business there. These writings represent an age-old argument with Scottish whisky exports even to the present day.
Glencairn proudly supports Robert Burns and his passion for whisky. Check out our limited edition Burns poetry set, which includes illustrations from Jim Drysdale featuring “Tam o’ Shanter” and “The Jolly Beggars,” among others.
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Burns Night 2024 Events
Robert Burns Night 2024 Events
Are you looking for somewhere to celebrate Robert Burns Night?
It’s almost time to celebrate the bard’s birthday, and as whisky seamlessly intertwines with Robert Burns festivities, we’ve curated a list of the most exceptional events throughout the UK.
Save the date
On the 25th of January, Scotland and beyond come together to honour the “bard,” the national poet Robert Burns. While this celebration holds worldwide recognition, it’s particularly renowned for traditional songs, poetry, dancing, and hearty food. It’s a time when even the commitment to dry January can be set aside, giving in to the indulgence of the “water of life”—whisky. And what better way to savour such spirits than in the exquisite Glencairn glass?
What do you do on Robert Burns night?
The observance of Burns Night typically entails a series of events, commencing with a robust supper at the centre, featuring the iconic haggis, neeps, and tatties—a dish celebrated in one of Robert Burns’ famous poems. Over a few glasses of whisky, toasts are commonly raised to Scotland, the delectable spread on the table, Robert Burns himself, and the nation’s beloved drink, whisky. What once was a celebration confined to Scotland has now transcended borders, with Burns events springing up all over the UK and beyond.
Find your local Burns Night.
That’s why we’ve crafted this list of events, showcasing the bard’s influence all across the UK. While this is a concise compilation of the finest events, there are still numerous others waiting to be discovered. If you’d like us to include your event, please reach out, and we’ll gladly add it to the list.
Slàinte Mhath!
Glasgow
- Celtic Connections x Loch Lea Burns Night – Kelvin Grove Art Gallery
- A Questions of Burns – Hilton
- Burns Special Whisky Tasting – Starter Culture
- Burns Night – Saint Luke’s Glasgow
- Burns Night – Panopticon
- Rabbie Burns Whisky Supper – The Singl-end Cafe
- Burns Supper – Òran Mór
- Rabbie Burns Murder Mystery – The Butterfly and the Pig
- Burns Night 2024 — Sloans
- Burns Night – Five March, Elderslie Street
Edinburgh
- Burns Supper – Ghillie Dhu
- Burns Night – Prestonfield Events
- Burns and Beyond – Series of Burns related Events
- Burns Supper -Royal Yacht Britannia
- Celebrating Burns -Edinburgh Castle
- Burns Night Whisky Tasting – Moonwake Beer Co.
- Royal Mile Whiskies & Lochlea Whisky – Drinkmonger
- Burns Night Whisky & Chocolate Tasting
PERTHSHIRE
ENGLAND
- Burns Night Whisky Tasting Experience with Berry Bros. & Rudd – London
- Burns Supper and Whisky Tasting – Scotch Malt Whisky Society – Newcastle
- St Georges Hall Burns Night – Liverpool
- Burns Supper and Whisky Tasting – Scotch Malt Whisky Society – Manchester
- Burns Night Whisky Tasting and Haggis Super – The Wee Dram Bakewell
- Burns Night Extravaganza – London
- Burns Night Rotunda – London
- Ardbeg x Acme Burns Night – London
- Burns Night Barrel Top – The Whisky Exchange – London
- Burns Night at the Cadogan Arms – London
- Burns Night Dinner With Macallan – London
- Burns Night Ceilidh Club – London
Looking for a personalised gift this Christmas?
Are you looking for a personalised gift this Christmas?
Personalise Your Whisky Experience with Glencairn Crystal this Christmas
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread cheer than with a thoughtful, personalised gift? Elevate your spirit drinking experience with a custom-engraved glass from Glencairn Crystal. Our skilled engravers, boasting years of expertise, can add your chosen message or name, infusing a unique touch into every crystal glass.
Personalised Whisky Glasses
If you’re in search of that extra-special touch for your whisky glass gift, consider adding a personalised message. Glencairn Glass offers a seamless customisation experience through our innovative 3D configurator. Effortlessly tailor your glass to perfection, making it an ideal gift for birthdays, Christmas, or a heartfelt thank-you gesture.
Any Name, Any Message
With our user-friendly 3D configurator, personalising your whisky glass has never been easier. Whether it’s a name, a meaningful quote, or a significant date, add a touch of sentimentality to your gift. The possibilities are endless, and the result is a bespoke whisky glass that speaks volumes.
Individually Engraved to Perfection
What sets Glencairn Crystal apart is our commitment to craftsmanship. Each and every personalised glass is meticulously engraved in our Glencairn studio, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail. Your chosen message or name is etched with precision, making every glass personal.
The Perfect Gift for Every Festive Occasion
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, spreading holiday cheer at Christmas, or expressing gratitude with a thoughtful thank-you gesture, a personalised whisky glass from Glencairn Crystal is the perfect choice.
This Christmas, make your loved ones feel truly special with a customised whisky glass from Glencairn Crystal. Elevate the art of gifting, one engraved glass at a time. Explore our exclusive collection of 6 limited-edition Christmas designs and make this holiday season truly unforgettable.
Couriers are expecting increased volumes over the Christmas period, please allow extra time to ensure your order will arrive in time for Christmas.
With this in mind, we have set the following dates:
International Personalised Orders – 4th December
UK Personalisation Orders – 11th December
International Blank Orders – 11th December
UK Blank Orders – 17th December
Christmas gifts under £25
Christmas Gifts Under £25
The Perfect Glencairn Glass Gifts for Whisky Fans and Beyond
We’ve curated a list of fantastic Christmas gifts, all under £25, to make your holiday shopping a breeze. From stylish glassware to unique accessories and more, our selection ensures that you can find the perfect gift without breaking the bank.
The Glencairn Glass Gift set of 2
This Christmas, why not delight your loved ones with The Glencairn Glass Gift Set of 2, priced at a mere £16 and presented in a stylish black gift box, adding an elegant touch to their festive celebrations? For under £20, it’s the ideal whisky glass gift set.
PRICE – £16
Glencairn Mixer Gift Set of 2
This festive season, elevate your loved ones’ Christmas gin experience with the Glencairn Mixer Set of 2, available for just £18. Presented in an elegant black gift box, it’s the perfect addition to their yuletide merriment. For under £20, this mixer set adds a touch of sophistication to their holiday gin cocktails.
PRICE – £18
Coloured Glencairn Glass set of 2
This Christmas, add a dash of festive flair to your gift-giving with the Glencairn Coloured Set of 2, available in a range of vibrant hues, including green, gold, white, black, red, and blue. Priced at just £24, this stylish set, nestled in a sleek black gift box, makes for a delightful present that brings a touch of colour to their holiday celebrations—Christmas presents under £25.
PRICE – £24
Glencairn Glass Merchandise
Explore our Glencairn Clothing Range this Christmas, featuring a stylish T-shirt with the “I love whisky” logo for £20, a baseball cap also priced at £20, and a smart Polo Shirt available at £25. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for great gifts, our merchandise section has a range of Glencairn Glass items for the whisky lover in your life.
PRICE – £20/25
Glencairn Glass Wee Jug Gift Set
Allow us to introduce the Glencairn Glass Wee Jug Set, the perfect addition to your festive celebrations, priced at just £24. This set includes a classic Glencairn glass and a charming wee jug, both elegantly presented in a beautiful black satin gift box, providing a complete whisky experience in one package. It’s the ideal choice for whisky enthusiasts this Christmas, all under £25.
PRICE – £24
Glencairn Accessories
Elevate your Christmas whisky experience with Glencairn Accessories. The Glencairn Pipette at £10 ensures precise pours, while Water Jugs, starting at £18, add elegance to your presentation. Tasting Caps at £3 capture holiday aromas, and Glencairn Lanyards for £5 or the charming Glencairn Keyring at £3.50 make perfect stocking fillers under £5. These accessories are essential for any whisky enthusiast’s Christmas wishlist.
PRICE – £3.50/£18
Couriers are expecting increased volumes over the Christmas period, please allow extra time to ensure your order will arrive in time for Christmas.
With this in mind, we have set the following dates:
International Personalised Orders – 4th December
UK Personalisation Orders – 11th December
International Blank Orders – 11th December
UK Blank Orders – 17th December
Arbikie Distillery
Arbikie Distillery with Kirsty Black,Master Distiller
Real Craft. Real Ingredients. Real People
Arbikie Estate is a family-owned working farm perched on the east coast of Angus; here crop is king. We painstakingly plant, sow, tend and harvest the fields that make up Arbikie. We are craftsmen of the soil.
Can you give us a bit of background about yourself and your journey in the spirits industry? Where did your distilling journey begin?
It has been a somewhat long, twisted and convoluted road to get to Arbikie and the spirits industry! Over the years I’ve studied plant science, forensic medicine and had a career working in the medical device industry. Eventually, however, it was time to go to Heriot-Watt University with the goal to work in a brewery. Working at the Caledonian Brewery and Barney’s Beer I crossed paths with the future owners of Summerhall Distillery and helped them set up the distillery and design Pickering’s Gin; my interest in distilling had truly piqued and it was time to move brewing to the garden shed. Which all leads us to today, at Arbikie, a true farm to bottle distillery that I’ve helped build from scratch. From bolting together the stills to figuring out how to get alcohol out of a potato I have ultimately combined my love of plants, distilling and a nerdy desire to simply figure out how things work!
When was Arbikie Distillery founded, and what sets it apart from other distilleries? Can you provide us with a brief history of the distillery?
The first Arbikie Distillery was technically around in the 1700s but after a small break in production the distillery as we know it today began production in 2013 in a converted farm building. We are a farm to bottle distillery with all the raw materials used in the distillery grown on the farm.
Our journey started with the humble spud and our Tattie Bogle Potato Vodka. Driven by the desire to not let our farms ‘wonky’ potatoes go to waste, and fully aware of the effort and inputs required to grow them, we set about turning them into Scotland’s first potato vodka. From their we’ve expanded our offerings to include a range of gins, flavoured vodkas, and whisky. This includes the first climate positive spirits made from peas (Nàdar) and led the way in the revival of rye being used in the production of rye single grain scotch whisky.
Does Arbikie Distillery have any specific sustainability or environmental practices in place, such as water conservation, waste reduction, or renewable energy initiatives?
At Arbikie we place sustainability and environmental impact on level pegging with more traditional business considerations. We’re continuously looking for ways to innovate and reinforce our sustainability focus. For each decision we make, we try and consider the environmental impact and how we can do things better.
Starting at the farm level we look at new crops, alternative varieties, and new farming techniques, which require less inputs thus improving the quality of our soils, the surrounding environment, and our harvest.
In the distillery itself we closely monitor water and energy use and are actively working on improving both. For example, despite the rainy reputation of Scotland a future where water is in short supply is not hard to imagine therefore have been part of the Dŵr Uisce project through Bangor University and Trinity College Dublin whose goal is to improve the efficiency of water use. Green energy has always been a part of the distillery set up with photovoltaic panels installed on the roof since we started but we are currently switching over our steam boiler to run on green hydrogen which will be generated on site, powered by our wind turbine – we aim to demonstrate to other distilleries the potential of hydrogen as an alternative fuel and drastically reduce our carbon footprint in the process.
How do you approach cask selection and maturation for your whisky? What impact do different types of casks have on the final product? Additionally, how do you select the flavouring process for gin distilling?
We operate an internal seasoning and reuse of cask programme to reduce the shipping and supply chain impact of this essential component in whisky. New oak casks are initially used in the maturation of our rye whisky before going on to be used as rye first fill and second fill casks for our single malt. This means for each shipment of casks received on site that each cask can be used at least 3 times compared to just 1 use before being shipped on to another distillery / use.
The casks play a number of roles in the maturation of whisky – there’s lots of reactions happening around flavour with compounds being added, removed and modified, but all complementing the flavours originating from our raw materials and fermentation that we’ve selected during the distillation process.
We make three different gins each of them aims to capture a different element of Arbikie. The first gin we released, Kirsty’s Gin, is potato based was about capturing our Angus home and what we encounter every day around the distillery. AK’s Gin, made from wheat, followed which is Alexander Kirkwood in a bottle – the father of the Stirling brothers and their inspiration for starting Arbikie Distillery. Finally we have Nàdar Gin, here we wanted to show what was possible despite our Scottish climate – made from 100% green peas it is climate positive with signature botanicals of lemongrass and makrut lime leaf, both of which are grown here on the farm!
What current trends do you see affecting the spirits industry, and how is Arbikie Distillery positioned to take advantage of them?
Sustainability and reducing environmental impact has to become the main focus for the distilling industry. Luckily as I’ve said we’ve always considered our environmental impact when making decisions and are always striving to do better. As well as the activities I’ve already mentioned we have lots of projects in the works. From reviewing all our packaging materials to, for example, ensure all paper is sourced from FSC forest and our bottle capsules are compostable, through to planting 1000 of junipers, native hedgerows and trees – we’re trying to think from a long-term point of view.
Why did you choose to partner with Glencairn Crystal as your preferred glassware supplier for tastings, and what benefits have you seen from using their products?
For us the name Glencairn represents good quality and is globally recognised within the whisky world. The glass you drink your dram out of has such an impact on your drinking experience and we know with Glencairn our spirits will be presented in the best possible way.
If you would like to find more information about Arbikie or purchase a bottle you can visit their website HERE
Lochlea Distillery
Lochlea Distillery with David Ferguson,Commercial Director
"From Burns to Barley..."
Here at Lochlea Distillery we have been quietly distilling and maturing our single malt Scotch whisky using barley that we grow and harvest on the farm.
Can you share the history and background of Lochlea Distillery? When was it founded, and what makes it stand out among other distilleries in the region?
The initial plans were hatched for Lochlea in 2014. By 2016 contruction was underway to repurpose the farm buildings (previously Lochlea was a cattle farm) and by August 2018 the first Lochlea spirit was produced. One of the things that makes us unique within the Scotch industry is that we grow our own barley on the farm. This traceability from field to cask is central to everything we do, and gives us full control over the quality of our single malt whisky. There are also intricacies within our production process that John Campbell and his team have carefully honed, in order to create the signature Lochlea flavours of bold, juicy fruit and a wonderful cereal / biscuit character in the new make. We certainly don’t fit the mould of a ‘typical’ light, delicate, lowland malt! We are always striving for depth and complexity, having set aside the stock that will go into Lochlea 25 year old already.
The name and branding of a whisky often carry significant meaning. What is the story behind the name of your whisky at Lochlea Distillery, and how does it reflect the overall identity and vision of the distillery?
Our core single malt whisky, Lochlea ‘Our Barley’ is named for that very reason. It is made from and inspired by our barley, which we grow on-site. Being a farm distillery, sustainability and transparency are extremely important to us. We then have a range of 4 seasonal limited editions per year. Each one ties back to exactly what is happening on the farm at that time, in terms of cask selection, flavour profile, and packaging.
Every distillery has its share of fascinating stories. Can you share any interesting anecdotes or memorable events related to the history, production, or individuals associated with Lochlea Distillery?
Lochlea Farm was once home to Robert Burns, from 1777-1784. By day he helped his father on the farm, tending the same land we do today. By night, he would walk the path right behind the distillery down to Tarbolton to engage in lively debate with friends.
Much more recently in 2021, we were delighted to welcome John Campbell as our Production Director. Having been responsible for one of the top ten Scotch whisky brands in the world over the past 27 years, John brings a wealth of knowledge and a burning ambition to assist Lochlea fulfil its potential.
Sustainability and eco-friendly practices are increasingly important in the spirits industry. Has Lochlea Distillery implemented any sustainable initiatives, and do you have any long-term plans in this regard?
Yes absolutely. As a farm, we are naturally very green already. However there are several initiatives that we have undertaken to ensure a fully cyclical process and reduce our carbon footprint. For example our Spent Lees are filtered through our on-site reed beds. They contain specialty plants that filter and break this by-product down until it is clean water that is discharged to the burn, mitigating over 2300 road miles per year. Our Draff is collected by local farmers and used as cattle feed. On the farm, after our harvest is complete, we sow cover crops (mustard and radish) to improve soil structure and create a leaf canopy to help prevent soil erosion. This cover crop is then grazed intensively with sheep for a month to six weeks before we start to prepare for sowing the following year’s seed.
Finally, The by-product of growing barley is straw, which we bale after the crop has been combined. Our neighbouring farmers collect and use the straw to bed cattle through the winter. In production, we ensure all our waste products have a secondary use. Our Pot Ale is taken away to a biogas plant and used to generate electricity.
We are always looking for improvements in this area, and in every aspect of our operation. Even our business cards are made from recycled coffee cups!
Whisky industry trends are constantly evolving. What current trends do you see impacting the whisky market, and how are you positioned to adapt and capitalize on these trends?
Firstly it appears that consumers are looking for consistently high quality, premium spirits with legitimate provenance in their production. Secondly, on the sustainability side, this is no longer a trend but simply an ongoing necessity within our industry. Thirdly, purchasing data shows clearly that people want new and interesting flavour profiles, for example making use of cask types to offer a different perspective on whisky from each distillery. Fortunately we are well positioned for all three, as we only produce single malt focused on quality over yield, we prioritise green credentials in every decision we take, and we have the flexibility to have over 25 cask types maturing in our on-site warehouses.
Balancing classic, time-honored whiskies with innovative expressions can be challenging. How do you maintain this balance in its product offerings?
Over the past year and a half, we have built up a portfolio of whiskies with which we hope everyone will find an expression they enjoy.
Our core single malt, Lochlea ‘Our Barley,’ perfectly encapsulates our house spirit style: fruit and cereal-forward, with depth and complexity beyond its years.
Our limited seasonal releases allow us to showcase our spirit using more experimental cask types that reflect the farming calendar and changing seasons.
Our newly released Cask Strength (Batch One) is perfect for those seeking an amplified version of our house spirit style; a little bolder, yet elegant.
These whiskies, alongside some one-off limited editions and single casks, are how we want to show people what Lochlea is all about until we have our first age-statement product.
Why did you decide to partner with Glencairn Crystal as your preferred glassware supplier for whisky tastings, and what benefits have you seen from using The Glencairn glasses at your distillery and beyond?
Premium whisky deserves premium glassware and we highly value partnering with another Scottish, family-run business. Using Glencairn glassware allows our team and our customers to enjoy the ultimate tasting experience when sampling our whisky.
Technology and data analytics are transforming various industries, including distilling. How does Lochlea Distillery leverage technology and data to enhance the whisky-making process and ensure quality control?
We are a relatively manual distillery. Every morning the production team are opening valves and doing manual checks to fire up the distillery equipment. The only automated part within the still house are our temperature controls. We collect data on every stage of the production process, as this is critical to monitor quality and look for continual improvement. We are also implementing a brand new system across production, bottling and logistics, which will tie everything together.
How do you choose the casks for ageing your whisky, and what impact do different types of casks have on the final flavour profile?
We always purchase our casks directly from source, as we want to ensure that they maintain their freshness and integrity when we fill them. We’re looking for casks that will complement our new make spirit, which is full of juicy fruit and cereal notes. A lot of the casks we fill are first-fill Bourbon from Loretto, Kentucky and Oloroso Sherry casks from Jerez, Spain, however we also have over 25 experimental cask types currently maturing in our warehouses. As we’re still a young distillery, we’re eager to experiment with these different cask types to learn what works best with our spirit. There is always debate over what percentage of flavour in the final product comes from the spirit and what comes from the cask, however what is indisputable is that even great spirit going into poor wood will produce poor whisky. Therefore we take great care with cask selection.
Can you provide some insights into any exciting projects or upcoming whisky releases that Lochlea Distillery has planned for the near future?
On the 17th of August we’re excited to be launching our second crop of Harvest Edition, inspired by the annual harvest that takes place on Lochlea Farm. This release is matured in Port, STR and first-fill Bourbon barrels and is packed full of delicious flavours of fruit and spice. This is a limited-edition release, with just 11,000 bottles available globally. Harvest Edition (Second Crop) sits at 46% and as with all our whiskies, is non-chill filtered with no added colouring. After that we will release our 100% sherry matured Fallow Edition in late October, and we have something very special on its way in early 2024…
If you would like to find out more about Lochlea Distillery or would be interested in purchasing one of their bottles you can check your their website here