Old Pulteney distillery

Introduction to Old Pulteney

A distillery with passion for craftsmanship

Old Pulteney is a Highland Scottish distillery perched on the far northern coast in the fishing town of Wick, Caithness. Known affectionately as “The Maritime Malt,” this distillery embodies the spirit of its coastal location, producing whisky that carries the distinct influence of the sea in every drop. Its remote location makes it one of Scotland’s most northerly mainland distilleries, creating a unique terroir that shapes its distinctive character.

The distillery’s maritime heritage is not merely a marketing angle but an integral part of its identity, with the sea air permeating the aging warehouses and influencing the maturation process of their exceptional spirits.

Why we have a soft spot for Old Pulteney

At Vault of Spirits, we cherish distilleries that tell a story through their whisky, and Old Pulteney does this masterfully. What sets Old Pulteney apart is its authentic maritime character – a natural saltiness and coastal influence that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

The distillery’s unique still shapes, including the famous “boil ball” and the absence of a swan neck on the wash still, create a spirit that captures the essence of its seaside home. This commitment to preserving tradition while producing exceptional quality makes Old Pulteney a true gem in the whisky world.

The History Behind Old Pulteney

Origin and development

Old Pulteney was established in 1826 by James Henderson at the height of the herring boom. The distillery was deliberately built in the heart of Wick’s fishing district, known as “Pulteneytown” (named after Sir William Pulteney who commissioned the development of the area), to serve the thirsty fishermen who brought prosperity to the region.

Throughout its history, Old Pulteney has weathered challenging times, including a 25-year closure during the local prohibition from 1930 to 1951, when the town of Wick voted to ban alcohol. Today, the distillery stands as a testament to resilience and traditional whisky-making, with a reputation that has grown steadily since the launch of its single malt expressions in the modern era.

The people behind

Currently under the stewardship of Inver House Distillers, Old Pulteney’s spirit is maintained by a dedicated team of craftspeople who understand the delicate balance between tradition and innovation. The distillery’s operations are overseen by skilled distillers who honor the techniques that have defined Old Pulteney’s character for nearly two centuries.

Their commitment to quality and authenticity ensures that each bottle captures the essence of this northern coastal haven, maintaining the legacy that has made Old Pulteney beloved among whisky connoisseurs worldwide.

The Craft and Production

From raw material to finished product

Old Pulteney’s production begins with carefully selected Scottish barley, which undergoes traditional floor malting before being milled and mashed. The distillery draws its water from the Loch of Hempriggs, located nearby, which contributes to the whisky’s distinctive profile.

The distillation process at Old Pulteney is particularly noteworthy due to its unusual still configuration. The wash still features a unique bulbous neck without a swan neck (reportedly cut off to fit the still room’s height constraints), while the spirit still has a traditional design with a boil ball. This unusual setup creates a heavier, more characterful spirit that has become the distillery’s signature.

Maturation and aging

Maturation takes place in ex-bourbon American oak casks, with select expressions receiving further finishing in sherry, port, or wine casks. The aging warehouses, situated mere steps from the North Sea, allow the sea air to permeate the casks, imparting a natural brine and maritime character to the whisky.

This marine influence is one of Old Pulteney’s most distinctive characteristics, with the coastal environment playing a crucial role in developing the whisky’s complex flavor profile. Many enthusiasts note that you can almost taste the sea spray in each dram – a testament to the power of place in whisky production.

Selected Products from Old Pulteney

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old – An introduction to the house style

This cornerstone expression perfectly introduces newcomers to the distillery’s character. With notes of honey, cream, and a distinctive maritime saltiness complemented by hints of green apple and toffee, it offers an approachable yet complex experience. The smooth, medium-bodied palate with its gentle coastal finish makes it an excellent entry point into the world of Old Pulteney.

Old Pulteney 18 Year Old – An experience for connoisseurs

For those seeking a more profound expression of Old Pulteney’s house style, the 18 Year Old delivers remarkable depth and complexity. Matured in both ex-bourbon and Spanish oak casks, it offers a sophisticated balance of chocolate, spice, and honeycomb sweetness against the backdrop of its signature coastal character. The extended aging provides a silky texture and an elegant, long-lasting finish that rewards contemplative sipping.

Visit the Distillery

Tours and tastings

Old Pulteney welcomes visitors to experience its coastal charm firsthand through guided tours of the production facilities. The distillery offers several tour options that take you through the entire whisky-making process, from mashing to maturation.

The tasting experiences typically include several expressions from their core range, allowing visitors to appreciate the progression of flavor and complexity across the portfolio. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into both the technical aspects of production and the rich history that has shaped this northern gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Old Pulteney?

Old Pulteney is a Highland single malt Scotch whisky distillery located in the coastal town of Wick in Caithness, Scotland. It produces whisky with a distinctive maritime character, earning it the nickname “The Maritime Malt.” Its approach combines traditional distilling methods with the unique influence of its coastal location to create spirits known for their complex, briny character and smooth finish.

Where is Old Pulteney located?

The distillery is situated in Wick, a historic fishing town on the far northeast coast of Scotland. This remote coastal location, where the rugged Highland landscape meets the North Sea, significantly influences the character of the whisky through both the water source and the aging environment.

What characterizes Old Pulteney?

Old Pulteney is particularly known for its natural maritime character – a distinct saltiness and coastal influence that comes from aging near the sea. The distillery’s unique still shapes create a medium-bodied spirit with notes of honey, brine, and mild fruitiness. Another signature characteristic is its oils, which create a lovely mouthfeel and texture that whisky enthusiasts prize.

Where can I buy whisky from Old Pulteney?

You can find selected bottles from Old Pulteney’s range at Vault of Spirits. We carefully curate the best expressions – from their core range to limited editions and special releases – ensuring you have access to the finest representations of this distinctive coastal malt.