Cragganmore

Cragganmore was founded in 1869 by John (Big John) Smith on a site chosen for its proximity to the Craggan Burn and the Strathspey Railway. Over the 20th century ownership passed through several hands and the distillery was included in the 'Classic Malts' selection. Today production and the brand are part of the Diageo group portfolio.

Production focused on a regionally expressive single malt: pursuing aromatic complexity and stylistic consistency through traditional technical choices and careful maturation management.

Speyside, village of Ballindalloch (Banffshire), Scotland

Some Cragganmore expressions have received recognition in international competitions: for example the Distillers' Edition has received Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in multiple editions (years indicated in official and specialized sources) and the 12 Years has collected medals in contests such as the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Scotch Whisky Masters.

Typical production for a Scottish single malt: fermentation in washbacks (traditionally wooden), distillation in copper pot stills with a pair of wash stills and a pair of spirit stills; Cragganmore's spirit stills have a particular configuration (flat tops and relatively short necks) that influences the aromatic profile. The water used comes from the Craggan Burn.

Distillation in copper pot stills; double distillation (wash + spirit) with spirit stills featuring flat tops, use of washbacks (traditionally wooden) and condensation using traditional systems.

Maturation in oak casks; management in warehouses (including traditional types) and use of different kinds of refill/seasoned casks to obtain the various expressions.