Benrinnes
Image Credit: Whisky.com
Speyside
1826
Andrew Millsopp
*Speyside South Senior Manager
Diageo
3,600,000
capacity/lpa
head whisky maker(s)
region
Year Founded
owner
Benrinnes distillery, currently part of the Diageo portfolio, boasts a rich history and distinctive production methods that set it apart in the world of Scotch whisky. Situated in its second location, Benrinnes was initially established in 1826 by Peter MacKenzie but relocated after a flood destroyed the original site in 1829.
Throughout its history, Benrinnes has changed hands several times, with ownership by notable figures like Alexander Edward, who co-owned Craigellachie distillery and had interests in Aultmore, Dallas Dhu, and Oban. The Edward family sold Benrinnes to John Dewar in 1922, ultimately leading to its place in the Diageo family of distilleries.
Known for its unique distillation process, Benrinnes employed a form of partial triple distillation for years to produce a meaty and sulphury new make spirit. Furthermore, Benrinnes employs worm tubs to condense the spirit, maintaining low temperatures that add weight and meatiness to the final product. In recent years, the distillery has simplified its distillation process. While Benrinnes whisky occasionally appears as an independent bottling, it is best known for Diageo's Flora and Fauna bottling, characterized by its meaty qualities and maturation exclusively in ex-Sherry casks.
-Written (Mostly) by Robots-