GlenWyvis

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The GlenWyvis distillery is based on the edge of Dingwall, a small town 20 miles North of Inverness. It was founded in 2015 by John McKenzie, a farmer, green energy advocate, and helicopter pilot who was inspired by former distilleries Ferintosh (referenced by Robert Burns), Glenskiach and Ben Wyvis – the latter two both closing for good in 1926. A crowdfunding appeal in July 2016 raised £2.5million from 2,456 investors in just 77 days, and in 2017 building commenced on the new distillery, which was the first in the world to be 100% community-owned, along with also being powered by 100% green energy.

Distillation of both gin and whisky commenced in 2018 under the initial leadership of distillery manager Duncan Tait, who had previously worked at Teaninich, Knockando and Mortlach. His retirement from the industry in August 2020 saw Matthew Farmer take over the reins – moving across from America to take the role, he was born and bred near Inverness and thus considered a local lad.

The inaugural Single Malt whisky was launched in December 2021, with this 2nd release being a batch of 23 casks of three year old spirit from 15 first-fill Tennessee whiskey barrels, 5 first-fill Oloroso Sherry casks and 3 refilled hogsheads which had already matured unpeated Scotch whisky from another distillery – however as these casks were sourced from a local cooperage it is not known which distillery this is from. There are 8000 bottles available at an ABV of 46.5%, with no colour added or chill filtration taking place.

The nose is sprightly and almost akin to a white wine, with plenty of sweet white fruit. There's a distinctive effervescence on the palate due in no part to the youthful nature of the spirit, but it actually partners really well with the soft fruit that continues on the palate, providing hints of sherbet. The fruit becomes more red as the finish progresses, with hints of strawberry and raspberry along with a hint of milk chocolate. It's a cracking dram for something so young - yet another new distillery that is producing flavour-forward spirit straight off the bat!