Lindores Abbey, MCDXCIV, Lowland, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (46%)
About this SPIRIT
Lindores Abbey Distillery
Just east of Newburgh, overlooking the Tay River in Scotland’s Lowlands sits Lindores Abbey Distillery – arguably, the spiritual home of Scotch whisky. The distillery occupies the site of the eponymous Lindores Abbey, founded in 1191. The earliest written reference of aqua vitae (as Scotch whisky was then known) appears in abbey documents from 1494 when Brother Jon Cor was tasked with producing it for King James IV.
The self-described “Custodians of Lindores” are Drew McKenzie Smith and his wife Helen. Lindores has been in the family since Drew’s grandfather bought Lindores farm in 1913 but it is Helen and Drew who have restored whisky production at Lindores in their newly built distillery. Working with legendary whisky consultant Dr Jim Swan throughout the design process, the buildings incorporate the abbey’s history and archaeology with swathes of modern glass and light. The first single malt whisky was then released in 2021.
As well as producing a selection of single malts, Lindores Abbey stays true to its roots and still makes an Aqua Vitae botanical spirit made with local herbs and spices including Douglas fir.
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Description
Whilst the good brothers of Lindores Abbey were distilling aqua vitae for the King in 1494, I cannot imagine that they weren’t partaking of a wee dram or two. Sadly, none of their possibly divine elixir remains. But this beautiful new entrant into the Fife whisky firmament is assuredly worthy. Lashings of stone-fruit and plump cereal with crumbly vanilla fudge shine forth on the nose. The palate is similarly generous, with notes of citrus and marzipan. A finish of Bakewell tart and sweet barley suggests that this debuting distillery is ordained for greatness.
Rob Whitehead, Spirits Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd
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