McClelland Scotch is made by Morrison Bowmore Distillers Ltd., which is now a division of Suntory. However, it's important to understand the history of McClelland's to fully appreciate how it came to be under Morrison Bowmore's ownership.
McClelland's was originally a Glasgow based whisky blending and export firm that was established in 1818. Back then, the whisky industry was quite different from what it is today. Blending was a common practice, as it allowed distillers to create unique flavor profiles by combining whiskies from different distilleries.
Over the years, McClelland's built a reputation for producing quality blended Scotch whiskies. They were known for their expertise in selecting whiskies from various distilleries and artfully blending them to create a harmonious flavor profile. This was no easy task, as each distillery had its own distinct character and style of whisky.
In 1970, the company was purchased by what would later become Morrison Bowmore Distillers Ltd. This acquisition allowed McClelland's to become a part of a larger whisky company with access to a wider range of whiskies and resources.
Morrison Bowmore Distillers Ltd. was itself established in 1951, and it has a rich history in the Scotch whisky industry. The company owns three distilleries in Scotland: Bowmore on the island of Islay, Glen Garioch in the Highlands, and Auchentoshan in the Lowlands. Each of these distilleries has its own unique style and character, and they contribute to the wide range of whiskies produced by Morrison Bowmore.
Under Morrison Bowmore's ownership, McClelland's Scotch whiskies continued to be blended using whiskies from various distilleries. However, the specific distilleries used in the blends are not disclosed on the bottles. This is not uncommon in the whisky industry, as many blends are made up of whiskies from multiple distilleries, and the exact composition is often kept secret.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate many different Scotch whiskies, including some from Morrison Bowmore. While I have not personally tasted McClelland's Scotch whiskies, I can attest to the quality and craftsmanship that Morrison Bowmore brings to its products.
McClelland Scotch is made by Morrison Bowmore Distillers Ltd., a company with a long history in the whisky industry. The specific distilleries used in the McClelland's blends are not disclosed, but the whiskies are carefully selected and blended to create a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.