Who owns Scotch distilleries? This is a question that often comes up when discussing the world of whisky. There are several major players in the industry, each with their own portfolio of distilleries. Let's take a closer look at some of the key owners and the distilleries they own.
1. Diageo: Diageo is one of the largest spirits companies in the world and owns a significant number of Scotch distilleries. Some of the well-known distilleries in their portfolio include Lagavulin, Talisker, Caol Ila, Glenkinchie, and Oban. Diageo is known for producing a wide range of whiskies, from peaty Islay malts to lighter Lowland expressions.
2. Pernod Ricard: Pernod Ricard is another major player in the Scotch whisky industry. They own distilleries such as Glenlivet, Aberlour, Scapa, and Strathisla. Pernod Ricard is known for its smooth and approachable whiskies, with Glenlivet being one of the best-selling single malts in the world.
3. The Edrington Group: The Edrington Group is the owner of several iconic Scotch whisky brands. They own the Macallan, Highland Park, and Glenrothes distilleries. The Macallan is particularly renowned for its premium and highly sought-after whiskies.
4. Inver House: Inver House Distillers is a smaller player in the industry but still owns some notable distilleries. They are the owners of Balblair, an Highland distillery known for its vintage expressions, as well as Old Pulteney, an award-winning maritime malt from the northernmost distillery on the Scottish mainland.
6. Beam Suntory: Beam Suntory is a global spirits company that owns a few Scotch distilleries. They are the owners of Bowmore, one of the oldest distilleries on the island of Islay, as well as Auchentoshan, a Lowland distillery known for its triple-distilled whiskies.
7. BenRiach Distillers Co.: BenRiach Distillers Co. is the owner of several distilleries, including BenRiach, GlenDronach, and Glenglassaugh. These distilleries produce a diverse range of whiskies, from peated and sherried expressions to lighter and fruitier styles.
8. Nikka: While primarily known for its Japanese whiskies, Nikka also owns the Ben Nevis distillery in Scotland. Ben Nevis produces a range of single malt whiskies, including both peated and unpeated expressions.
These are just a few examples of the owners of Scotch distilleries. There are many other independent distilleries and smaller players in the industry that contribute to the rich and varied world of Scotch whisky. Each owner brings its own unique style and heritage to the whiskies they produce, making Scotch whisky a truly diverse and fascinating category.