Cameronbridge Distillery is a prominent grain whisky distillery located in Cameron Bridge, Scotland. Established in 1824, it holds the distinction of being the first distillery to produce grain whisky using the column still method pioneered by Robert Stein in 1830.

History

Cameronbridge Distillery has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1824. In 1830, it revolutionized whisky production by adopting Robert Stein's innovative column still method, marking a significant advancement in distillation technology. The distillery flourished and in 1877, John Haig & Co merged with five other whisky companies to form the Distillers Company Ltd (DCL). Under DCL's ownership, Cameron Bridge became exclusively dedicated to grain whisky production by 1929, using a combination of pot stills and column stills.

During World War II, Cameronbridge Distillery temporarily closed its doors from 1941 to 1947. In the subsequent decades, the distillery underwent several expansions and renovations to enhance its production capacity and efficiency. Notably, in the 1960s, the current Column still house was constructed, with two of its three stills dating back over 30 years. The third still was relocated from the closed Carsebridge distillery in Alloa by United Distillers in 1983.

Major renovations occurred between 1989 and 1992, further modernizing the facilities to accommodate the production of up to 30 million imperial gallons (140,000,000 L) of spirit annually. In 1989, Cameronbridge evolved into a 'dual-purpose' site when United Distillers transferred its grain neutral spirit (GNS) operation from Wandsworth to Fife. This diversification enabled the distillery to produce not only grain whisky but also GNS for various white spirits and popular brands like Archers, Pimm's, Smirnoff, Tanqueray, and Gordon's Gin.

Today, Cameronbridge Distillery remains the largest operational grain distillery in Scotland, reflecting its pivotal role in the whisky industry. It is owned by Diageo, continuing its legacy of producing high-quality grain whisky for renowned blended Scotch brands such as Johnnie Walker, J&B, Bell's, Black & White, Vat 69, Haig, and White Horse.

Recognition and Influence

Cameronbridge Distillery's contributions to whisky production technology and its expansive production capabilities have solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of the Scotch whisky industry. Its enduring commitment to quality and innovation underpins its status as a key player in Scotland's distillation landscape.