The Glenturret Distillery Charts a New Course: Transition to a Signature Unpeated Style

Scotland’s oldest working distillery, The Glenturret, has announced a major shift in its whisky production. Beginning in 2025, the distillery will phase out the use of peated malt, with its core range set to go entirely unpeated by 2026.

This decision marks a significant step in The Glenturret’s evolution, as it redefines its house style to focus on its light and fruity spirit, matured predominantly in American oak sherry-seasoned casks.

A Nod to the Past, a Vision for the Future

Historically, The Glenturret utilised peat in its whisky production during the 18th and 19th centuries. However, much of its modern whisky-making history has leaned toward an unpeated style. In 2009, the distillery introduced Ruadh Maor, a peat-smoked expression that complemented its unpeated offerings. These peated releases have since been an annual feature, gaining popularity among whisky enthusiasts.

The decision to retire peated expressions is driven by a commitment to refining a distinctive house style that celebrates The Glenturret’s unique character. Distillery Director Ian Renwick emphasised the importance of this direction, stating, “Our attention to detail is second to none, and as a small team, it’s incredible what we can achieve in our whisky making.”

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A New Chapter Under Lalique Ownership

This transition comes five years after The Glenturret’s transformative acquisition by the Lalique Group in 2019. The distillery has since undergone a remarkable reinvention, elevating its reputation from an overlooked whisky maker to a highly sought-after single malt producer.

Significant investments in the distillery have enhanced both its production facilities and sustainability practices. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to align The Glenturret’s operations with modern values, including a deep respect for the environment.

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Sustainability as a Cornerstone

The Glenturret’s journey toward sustainability has been widely recognised. Recently named Walpole’s Sustainable Luxury Brand of the Year, the distillery has made impressive strides in reducing its environmental impact. Key achievements include:

• Reducing annual energy consumption by 27%.
• Cutting process waste by 1,000 tonnes annually.
• Saving 1,000,000 litres of water each year.

Renwick highlighted this commitment, noting, “We honour the environment as deeply as we do our craft, and that is the mantra for The Glenturret of the future.”

From Blending to Single Malts

Prior to its acquisition, The Glenturret primarily produced whisky for blending purposes, including contributions to The Famous Grouse. Peated components were particularly advantageous for blends during this period. However, the distillery now operates with a singular focus on crafting premium single malts.

This evolution aligns with its aspiration to define a clear and recognisable signature style. The Glenturret’s managing director, Jennie Baernreuther, remarked, “Refining both our production and style gives us confidence in the future… our distinctive fruit notes and American oak sherry influence will be instantly recognisable as a Glenturret Single Malt.”

Celebrating the Present, Embracing the Future

Fans of The Glenturret’s peated expressions still have time to enjoy these distinctive whiskies. The remaining peated bottles, including the 7- and 10-year-old editions, are available through the distillery boutique, online shop, and select retailers. Visitors can also savour these whiskies during immersive distillery tours or at The Lalique Bar, part of the distillery’s renowned two Michelin Star restaurant.

With a presence in 19 global markets, including London, New York, Tokyo, Seoul, and Paris, The Glenturret is positioning itself as a beacon of craftsmanship and heritage. This transition to a signature unpeated style marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Scotland’s oldest distillery.

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