Knockando Distillery is a renowned single malt Scotch whisky distillery located in the village of Knockando, Moray, within the Strathspey whisky-producing area of Scotland. The name "Knockando" derives from the Scottish Gaelic "Cnoc Cheannachd," meaning "Hill of Commerce." The distillery is set amidst a picturesque landscape of woods, which are home to buzzards, red squirrels, and roe deer.

History

Knockando Distillery was established by John Tytler Thomson in 1898. In 1904, it was acquired by W & A Gilbey, a London-based gin producer. Notably, Knockando was the first distillery in Scotland to be built with electric lighting. By 1905, it was directly connected to the Great North of Scotland Railway, facilitating transportation and distribution. During this period, cottages for distillery workers and a house for the Customs and Excise Officer were also constructed nearby.

In the 1960s, Knockando became part of Grand Metropolitan. Following the 1997 merger of Guinness plc and Grand Metropolitan, the distillery was integrated into the newly formed company, Diageo.

Location

Knockando Distillery is situated near the now-defunct Dalbeallie Station, which is closer to the Tamdhu distillery. Although the railway line has been dismantled, it has been repurposed as part of the Speyside Way long-distance walk. The old station buildings, renamed Tamdhu station, are currently used by the Tamdhu distillery for meetings.

Production

The distillery is known for its high-quality single malt whiskies and plays a significant role in the production of the famous J&B Ultima blend. This special blend, created in 1994 to celebrate the quincentenary of Scotch whisky, contains 128 different whiskies (116 malt and 12 grain). A cask of each of these whiskies is still maturing in Knockando's warehouse.

Knockando Distillery continues to uphold its tradition of producing exceptional Scotch whisky, reflecting its rich history and commitment to quality.