Lowlands
The Lowlands region, the largest by landmass and most densely populated, is home to just over twenty distilleries. This region spans from Glasgow through the central belt of Scotland, reaching east to Fife and extending south to the Scottish Borders.
History
In the late 19th century, there were over 100 whisky distilleries in the Lowlands. Separated by the theoretical Highland Line from the Highland distilleries, the Lowland producers made whisky on an industrial scale, but often at poor quality. Many became victims of the harsh effects of World War I and the U.S. Prohibition, and by the year 2000 the number of distilleries had plummeted to just three.
However, in the last few decades there’s been a burst of new distilleries in this region, many of them leading the way in innovative and sustainable production.
Flavour Profile
Traditionally whiskies from this region are easily accessible and provide light, floral and grassy notes.
Notable Distilleries
Well-known distilleries include Auchentoshan, Glenkinchie, Eden Mill and Bladnoch.
One to try: Glenkinchie 12-Year-Old. A flagship expression, the Glenkinchie 12-year-old is a quintessential Lowlands whisky. Made from some of the largest stills in Scotland, it offers characteristic light, grassy notes with hints of cooked fruit, before a smooth, medium finish.
