Linkwood Distillery

This unsung hero in the world of single malts, Linkwood Distillery was established in 1821, but only started production in 1824. Located in Elgin, Speyside, neighbour to some the most impressive distillers like BenRiach, Glen Moray. Linkwood’s spirits make up a key part of the prestigious blends under Diageo, including Johnnie Walker. Of the 3.5 million litres produced annually, only 1-2% of the spirit from Linkwood makes its way to the world of single malts. For many years quasi-official bottlings have come from Gordon & MacPhail of Elgin – often from ex-Sherry casks.

In 2008 when Diageo released three different 'finishes, rum; port; and red wine. While the concept of finishes is hardly unusual these days, these bottlings had some noteworthy features. For one thing, the age of these releases was 26 years and the double maturation lasted for 14 years, more than half of its time.

Until the early 1960s the machinery here was driven by a waterwheel, and when the stills were

replaced at that time, every dent was faithfully copied and even the cobwebs were replaced. Recently the distillery underwent a £5million expansion because of increasing demand, with refurbishment and replacements.