Distillery
Blair Athol
Blair Athol is a single malt Scotch whisky distillery located in Pitlochry, Perthshire (Highlands). It is known both for its important contribution to blends (notably Bell's) and for standalone releases such as the 12 Years and various distillery-exclusive or independent bottlings.
- Pitlochry · Highland · United Kingdom (Scotland)
- Since 1798
The story
Founded in 1798 as 'Aldour' and re-established under the name Blair Athol in the 19th century, the site experienced periods of closure (including 1932–1949) before being rebuilt and reopened. In the 20th century it became part of Arthur Bell & Sons and later passed to the current owner, Diageo. Capacity expansions and a visitor centre have been added over the years.
Territory
Pitlochry, Perthshire, Scottish Highlands. Origin area of the water resource (Allt Dour) and historically linked to regional blend production.
Production method
Typical single malt Scotch production: use of malted barley, fermentation and double distillation in copper pot stills. The water source is the Allt Dour burn that runs through the estate.
Distillation
Double distillation in copper pot stills; the plant features wash and spirit stills arranged according to the site's historic configuration.
Ageing
Aging in oak casks; some expressions (including independent bottlings) mature in sherry casks or hogsheads depending on the release.
Characteristics
- Type
- Distillery
- City
- Pitlochry
- Categories
- whisky distillery
- single malt
- Scotch whisky
- Highland whisky
- Raw materials
- malted barley
- water (Allt Dour Burn)
- yeast
- Casks and ageing vessels
- oak casks
- sherry butt
- hogshead
- Representative products
- Blair Athol 12 Years (official core range)
- Distillery exclusive bottlings
- Blair Athol 17 Years (e.g. Distiller's Art - independent release)
What makes it distinctive
- Founded in 1798; originally named Aldour.
- Located in Pitlochry, uses water from the Allt Dour.
- Historically an important contributor to the Bell's blend.
- Currently owned by Diageo; operates an active visitor centre.
Products from Blair Athol
Full collectionThere are currently no products available from this producer.