The meaning of the Illicit Still Glenlivet is rooted in the rich history and heritage of The Glenlivet distillery. It pays tribute to the origins of our founder's original whisky, which was illegally distilled. This limited edition expression serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings and the determination of our founder to create exceptional whisky, even in the face of adversity and prohibition.
During the early days of whisky production in Scotland, there were strict laws and regulations in place that made it illegal to distill whisky without a license. However, many enterprising individuals, including our founder George Smith, took the risk and operated illicit stills in order to produce their own whisky.
Illicit stills were hidden and operated secretly, often in remote and hard-to-reach locations such as secluded valleys or remote hillsides. These hidden stills allowed distillers to evade the watchful eyes of the excise officers who were tasked with enforcing the law. The production of whisky in these illicit stills was a dangerous and clandestine operation, with distillers constantly at risk of being caught and facing severe penalties.
George Smith was one of these courageous individuals who defied the law and operated an illicit still in the remote Livet Valley. The Glenlivet distillery, as we know it today, traces its roots back to this humble beginning. George Smith's determination and commitment to producing exceptional whisky eventually led to the legalization of his distillery in 1824, making The Glenlivet the first licensed distillery in the Livet Valley.
The Illicit Still Glenlivet is a special release that celebrates this rebellious spirit and pays homage to the legacy of George Smith. It allows whisky enthusiasts to experience a taste of the past and to appreciate the challenges and risks that were taken to create the whisky we enjoy today.
This limited edition expression captures the essence of the original illicitly distilled Glenlivet whisky, with its distinctive flavors and character. It serves as a reminder of the boldness and determination that shaped The Glenlivet's history, and it offers a unique opportunity to connect with the roots of our brand.
The Illicit Still Glenlivet is a testament to the rebellious spirit and ingenuity of our founder, George Smith, who dared to defy the law and create exceptional whisky. It is a celebration of the rich history and heritage of The Glenlivet distillery, and a tribute to the origins of our brand. By enjoying this limited edition expression, whisky enthusiasts can experience a taste of the past and honor the legacy of George Smith and the illicit stills that paved the way for the remarkable whiskies we have today.