Whisky enthusiasts with a fondness for the Lowlands, take note: Rosebank Distillery, one of Scotland's celebrated ghost distilleries that focuses on triple-distilled single malts, is stirring back to life. This "King of the Lowlands", as described by the revered whisky writer Michael Jackson, fell silent in 1993 and remained so for three decades.

However, tides have turned favourably for Rosebank. Ian Macleod Distillers purchased the site, along with stocks of precious aging whisky, from Diageo in 2017. Since then, a meticulous restoration has been underway, breathing new life into the distillery.

Now, the wait is nearly over. Rosebank Distillery will swing open its doors to the public this June. While the fundamental spirit of Rosebank, with its characteristic triple distillation and use of worm tub condensers, will be preserved, the refurbished site promises to offer a blend of tradition and modernity. A striking new glass-fronted still room provides a glimpse into the whisky-making process, while a traditional dunnage-style warehouse offers ample space for casks to mature.

 Rosebank’s pot stills are rather unusual. Instead of having a swan neck, they are rather gruesomely described as being shaped like severed heads (Image Source: Ian Macleod Distillers)

The return of Rosebank isn't just about production; it's about crafting an experience. The distillery will feature a dedicated visitor center equipped with six tasting rooms, offering ample opportunity for whisky lovers to discover (or rediscover) the unique charm of Rosebank whiskies. And for an extra touch of ambience, there're rumours that a literal bed of roses would blossom on the canal banks as a fragrant welcome for visitors.

“Being small, Rosebank was one of the more expensive whiskies to produce, but in my view, that’s no reason to close a distillery. Its reopening will be a very special moment for its hometown of Falkirk, for the Scotch industry and for whisky lovers everywhere.

The whole team at Rosebank are overjoyed to finally share our beautiful new distillery with whisky admirers across the world. We’re extremely proud of what we’ve created and can’t wait to open our doors this summer.”

– Leonard Russell, managing director of Ian Macleod Distillers.

Rosebank joins Brora and Port Ellen in becoming one of the latest cult ghost malts to be recently resurrected. 

| Read more about Rosebank Distillery: The Lowland Legend That Could Have Been

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team