Celebrating 200 Years of Fettercairn: A Journey Through Imagination and Whisky

As I sit down to reflect on my journey through the world of whisky, it’s hard not to draw parallels between the evolution of distilleries and the ingenuity of the people behind them. One such distillery that captivates my imagination is Fettercairn, nestled at the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains. The distillery is not only a testament to Scotland’s rich whisky heritage but also an embodiment of innovation and creativity that has flourished over two centuries.

Celebrating creativity at Fettercairn.

In 2024, Fettercairn reaches an extraordinary milestone — 200 years of crafting single malt Scotch. To commemorate this remarkable occasion, the distillery has collaborated with Whisky Magazine to produce a stunning film titled 200 Years Of Imagination. Featuring voices from renowned Scottish chef Julie Lin, and regular Whisky Magazine contributors Kristiane Sherry and Abbie Moulton, the video explores the essence of Fettercairn’s legacy and innovation. Premiering exclusively on YouTube, this film is a delightful exploration for whisky enthusiasts.

The beauty of Fettercairn lies not only in its location but also in the rich narrative that accompanies it. The fertile farmlands of the Howe o’ the Mearns have long provided high-quality barley, a crucial component in the distillation process. As Stewart Walker, the longest-serving distillery manager shares, this connection to the land is palpable. The soft waters sourced from the Grampian hills contribute to the floral and fruity notes that Fettercairn whiskies are celebrated for, shaping the character of the spirits crafted here.

The heart of Fettercairn — a true Highland institution.

As I delve into the history of this distillery, I am enchanted by the tales of its past. Initially, whisky-making in the area had to be performed clandestinely. The early distillers operated in secrecy, hidden from the government’s watchful eyes. It was intriguing to learn about James Stewart, Fettercairn’s first distiller, whose ingenuity paved the way for this landmark establishment.

“That fertile farmland is good for growing barley, of course,” Walker emphasizes. “The farming history runs long and deep, just like the distilling history.”

It’s fascinating how Fettercairn embodies the spirit of craft, with knowledge and traditions being carefully passed down through generations. Over the years, the distillery has maintained a commitment to developing a complex, characterful spirit, which is reflected in its unique flavour profile. The distinct notes of overripe banana, tropical fruits, and a biscuity base encompass the artistry involved in whisky making. Each sip tells a story of land, history, and creativity.

Savor the depth of flavors crafted within Fettercairn’s tun room.

Innovation is woven into the fabric of Fettercairn, evident from its production process. One striking feature is the cooling rings surrounding the stills, designed to create a lighter, purer expression of spirit. This unique feature came about in the 1950s, when Alistair Menzies, a former distillery manager, sought to enhance the whisky’s floral notes.

“That cool water cascading down the still creates reflux,” Walker explains, highlighting how it enhances the whisky’s complexity. The contributions of ingenuity and a willingness to question the status quo are what make Fettercairn’s approach so remarkable. It echoes a sentiment I deeply resonate with: embracing the possibilities that innovation offers.

The artistry behind Fettercairn’s stills — a showcase of innovation.

Recently, Fettercairn has launched initiatives like the Fettercairn 200 Club, which strives to localize sourcing and celebrate community ties. With a focus on using barley from within a 50-mile radius, Stewart Walker reflects on a bold question, “Why are we using malt from other parts of Scotland when we have an abundance of the best quality barley for distilling right on our doorstep?” This initiative exemplifies the distillery’s efforts to reconnect with its roots, acknowledging the historical ties with local farmers.

Celebrating history with the limited edition anniversary collection.

Looking forward, the Scottish Oak Project stands out as another innovative endeavor aimed at responsible sourcing and environmental conservation. By using Scottish oak for cask maturation and regenerating oak forests, Fettercairn is not only crafting unique flavours but also promoting sustainability.

To honor its remarkable 200-year journey, Fettercairn is also preparing to release a 200th-anniversary celebration collection featuring six exquisite expressions, each a chapter in its storied narrative. With age statements totaling 200 years, this collection reflects the distillery’s enduring creativity.

In conclusion, Fettercairn stands as a beacon of imagination and tradition in the whisky world. With its rich past, illustrious present, and innovative future, it’s clear that this Highland distillery is just getting started. As I raise a glass to Fettercairn, I can’t help but feel excited about the stories yet to unfold.

Discover Fettercairn’s journey and join the celebration.