Some people believe that whiskey originated in Ireland, while others argue that it first appeared in Scotland. However, one thing is clear – both countries have a long and proud tradition of producing top-quality whiskey.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of whiskey production in Ireland and Scotland, and answer the burning question – which country has the oldest distillery still producing whiskey today?
Ireland – the Emerald Isle of Whiskey
When it comes to whiskey production, Ireland has been a leading player since the 6th century. Monks in Ireland are often credited with bringing the art of distillation to the Emerald Isle, and the tradition has continued ever since.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Irish whiskey was renowned throughout Europe for its quality, and a thriving industry developed around the production of uisce beatha (the Irish term for whiskey, meaning “water of life”).
By the 18th and 19th centuries, Irish whiskey was a major export, with distilleries dotted across the country. However, the industry was hit hard by a combination of factors, including the economic recession, the invention of the Coffey still, and the emergence of Scotch whiskey.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, many Irish distilleries went out of business or were taken over by larger companies. Today, the industry is experiencing a revival, with new distilleries springing up across the country and established brands like Jameson enjoying renewed popularity.
The Oldest Irish Whiskey Distillery
So, which distillery can lay claim to being the oldest still producing whiskey today?
The answer is – Bushmills.
Located in County Antrim in Northern Ireland, Bushmills was founded in 1608 by Sir Thomas Phillips. In the centuries that followed, the distillery changed hands several times, and underwent a major refurbishment in the 1970s.
Today, Bushmills produces a range of award-winning whiskeys, including the popular Black Bush and the 12-year-old single malt.
However, it’s worth noting that Bushmills isn’t technically the oldest distillery in Ireland – that honour goes to Kilbeggan, which was founded in 1757. However, Kilbeggan was closed for many years and only reopened in 2007 after a major refurbishment, so Bushmills holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating distillery.
Scotland – the Home of Whiskey
Scotland is often hailed as the birthplace of whiskey, and for good reason. The first written record of the production of Scottish whiskey dates back to 1494, when King James IV granted a monk permission to purchase malt for the purpose of making aqua vitae (the Latin term for “water of life”).
Over the centuries, the Scottish whiskey industry grew and evolved, with different regions of the country developing their own unique styles of whiskey. These include:
– Lowland whiskey – characterised by its light, fresh taste and low peatiness
– Highland whiskey – typically more full-bodied and with a smokier edge, thanks to the peaty water used in production
– Islay whiskey – renowned for its powerful, smoky flavour
– Speyside whiskey – often considered the “champagne” of whiskey, with a light, fruity aroma
Today, Scotland is home to over 100 distilleries, producing a wide range of whiskeys to suit all tastes.
The Oldest Scottish Whiskey Distillery
So, which distillery can claim to be the oldest in Scotland?
The answer is – Glenturret.
Located in Crieff, Perthshire, Glenturret was founded in 1775 by John Drummond. Initially, the distillery produced whiskey for use in the blended Black Grouse brand, but it has since gained a reputation for producing excellent single malt whiskeys.
In addition to its flagship Glenturret single malt, the distillery also produces the Famous Grouse blend, one of the most popular Scotch whiskeys in the world.
However, it’s worth noting that Glenturret has not operated continuously – it was closed for a period of 20 years in the early 20th century, before being purchased and refurbished by new owners in the 1950s. As a result, some people argue that Strathisla distillery in Speyside, which has been in operation since 1786, should be considered the oldest continuously operating Scottish whiskey distillery.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to whiskey, both Ireland and Scotland can boast a rich heritage and a wealth of quality distilleries. While Bushmills and Glenturret may hold the titles of oldest continuously operating distilleries in their respective countries, there are plenty of other historic distilleries to explore, each with its own unique story to tell.
Whether you prefer a smooth Irish whiskey or a peaty Scottish single malt, there’s no denying that whiskey remains one of the world’s most beloved spirits. So why not raise a glass to the water of life, and toast to the legacy of those early Irish monks and Scottish distillers who paved the way for centuries of whiskey excellence?
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