Campbeltown, located on the Kintyre Peninsula in Scotland, is home to three distilleries. While this may seem like a small number compared to other whisky-producing regions in Scotland, it is important to note that Campbeltown was once a thriving hub of whisky production. In its heyday, there were more than 30 distilleries operating in the region.
Unfortunately, due to various factors such as economic downturns, Prohibition, and changing tastes, many of the distilleries in Campbeltown were forced to close their doors. Today, only three distilleries remain, but they continue to produce exceptional single malts that are highly regarded by whisky enthusiasts.
The three distilleries in Campbeltown are Springbank, Glengyle, and Glen Scotia. Each distillery has its own unique characteristics and style, contributing to the diversity and complexity of Campbeltown whiskies.
Springbank Distillery, the oldest operating distillery in Campbeltown, was founded in 1828. It is known for its traditional production methods, including floor malting and on-site maturation. Springbank whiskies are often described as robust, with a distinctive coastal influence and a hint of peat smoke. The distillery also produces Longrow, a heavily peated expression, and Hazelburn, an unpeated malt.
Glengyle Distillery, also known as Mitchell's Glengyle, is the newest distillery in Campbeltown. It was established in 2004, reviving the Glengyle brand which had been dormant since 1925. Glengyle whiskies are characterized by their light and floral nature, with a focus on fruity and malty flavors. The distillery's flagship expression, Kilkerran, has gained a loyal following since its release.
Glen Scotia Distillery, situated in the heart of Campbeltown, has a long history dating back to 1832. Over the years, it has faced periods of closure and changes in ownership, but it has managed to survive and thrive. Glen Scotia whiskies are known for their rich and full-bodied profiles, often featuring notes of dried fruit, spice, and sea salt. The distillery offers a range of expressions, including limited editions and cask strength releases.
Visiting Campbeltown and exploring its distilleries is a truly unique experience for any whisky lover. The town itself has a rich whisky heritage, with remnants of its past glory evident in the numerous old distillery buildings that still stand. The distilleries themselves offer informative and engaging tours, allowing visitors to witness the whisky-making process up close and sample a variety of expressions.
While Campbeltown may be Scotland's smallest whisky-producing region in terms of the number of distilleries, its single malts are anything but diminutive in their character and quality. The three remaining distilleries in Campbeltown, Springbank, Glengyle, and Glen Scotia, continue to uphold the region's reputation for producing exceptional whiskies that are distinct and highly sought-after by whisky connoisseurs.