At Holyrood Distillery, we are passionate about creating whisky that truly embodies the spirit of our city, Edinburgh. We believe that whisky is not just a drink, but a story, a journey, and a reflection of the place it comes from. That's why we put our heart and soul into every aspect of the whisky-making process, from sourcing the finest ingredients to crafting unique flavor profiles.
Our primary focus is on producing single malt whisky, which is made exclusively from malted barley and distilled in pot stills. We carefully select the barley we use, aiming for the highest quality and unique characteristics that will shine through in the final product. This attention to detail starts right from the beginning, as we work closely with local farmers to ensure we have a sustainable and reliable supply of barley.
The next step in our whisky-making process is malting. Malting is the process of soaking the barley in water, allowing it to germinate, and then drying it in a kiln. This malting process not only prepares the barley for fermentation but also adds depth and complexity to the flavors of the whisky. At Holyrood Distillery, we take pride in using traditional floor malting techniques, which allow us to control and monitor the process closely, resulting in a truly unique character.
Once the barley is malted, we move on to mashing and fermentation. Mashing involves grinding the malted barley and mixing it with hot water to extract the sugars, creating a sweet liquid known as wort. This wort is then fermented with yeast, converting the sugars into alcohol and producing what is known as a wash. The wash is essentially a beer but with a higher alcohol content and without the hops.
Distillation is where the magic really happens. We use traditional pot stills, which allow us to capture the full range of flavors and aromas present in the wash. The wash is heated in the pot stills, and as the alcohol vapor rises, it is condensed and collected, resulting in a spirit known as new make spirit. This new make spirit is the foundation of our whisky, containing the essence of the barley and the craftsmanship of our distillers.
But our journey doesn't end there. Whisky, by definition, needs to be aged in oak casks for a minimum of three years. This maturation process is crucial in developing the flavors and character of the whisky. At Holyrood Distillery, we carefully select a variety of casks, including ex-bourbon, sherry, and red wine casks, to create a diverse range of expressions. Each cask imparts its own unique flavors and influences the final product, adding layers of complexity and depth.
During the aging process, the whisky interacts with the wood, drawing out flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and spices. It also undergoes a slow oxidation, which helps to mellow and refine the spirit. Our whisky is matured in our on-site warehouse, where we closely monitor the casks and ensure optimal conditions for aging.
After the whisky has reached its desired level of maturity, it is carefully bottled, labeled, and prepared for distribution. Each bottle is a testament to our dedication to quality and our commitment to capturing the true essence of Edinburgh in every sip. Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of spirits, we believe that our whisky has something to offer everyone.
Holyrood Distillery makes single malt whisky that is a true reflection of our city. From carefully selecting the barley to traditional floor malting techniques, to the art of distillation, and the patient aging process, we pour our passion into every step. The result is a whisky that tells a story, evokes a sense of place, and invites you to experience the spirit of Edinburgh.