This bottle of Tamnavulin 29 Year Old Stillman's Dram is an independent bottling
The Stillman's Dram series by Whyte & Mackay is a collection of old single malts that were released during the 1990s. These whiskies are known for their unique age statements and are often sought after by collectors. The series includes various distilleries, such as Dalmore, Fettercairn, and Tamnavulin, each offering a distinct flavor profile and a chance to experience the art of whisky aging. The series is part of Whyte & Mackay's commitment to showcasing older age statements and vintages from their portfolio, making it a valuable addition for whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike
Tamnavulin Distillery was silent between 1995 and 2007; this 12 year gap in production meant that in recent times they have produced very little in the way of official bottlings. Although the vast majority of their production goes into blends, Tamnavulin was relaunched as a single malt in 2016 - to celebrate 50 years since the distillery was founded - with the Double Cask expression.
This is a large plant whose sign rather baldly states ‘NO VISITORS’ rather than ‘WELCOME’. This is not unfriendliness, simply a manifestation of the reality of the whisky business. In fact, there used to be a visitor facility nearby. The majority of distilleries are there to make spirit for blends, not to entertain tourists.
Its half dozen stills are large, the fermentation short and the make is light and cereal accented.
Tamnavulin was one of the distilleries built in the whisky boom of the early 1960s when demand was so far outstripping supply that new facilities had to be constructed. It was built by Invergordon Distillers (whose portfolio also included a grain distillery, Bruichladdich, Tullibardine and Jura). It had six stills and, for a period, Saladin maltings.
Invergordon was in turn bought by Whyte & Mackay. In 1995, with the whisky market in steady decline, it was mothballed, only reopening in 2007 when Whyte & Mackay was purchased by Indian giant United Spirits. Its function as a supplier of fillings however hasn’t altered. It changed hands once again in 2014 when Whyte & Mackay was sold to Philippine-based Emperador.
*due end Oct 2025
45% ABV
70cl
