Glenesk Scotch Whisky

Glenesk Scotch whisky distillery has been known by several other names “Hillside”, “Highland Esk”, “North Esk” and “Montrose”. Located on the site of former flax mill the distillery was originally named Highland Esk Distillery and was established by James Isles a Dundee wine merchant in 1897.

The distillery was purchased in 1899 by J.F Caille Heddle who renamed it North Esk Distillery. The distillery was damaged by fire in 1910 and was subsequently rebuilt only to be closed during WWI.

After the war, in 1919, Thomas Bernard & Co acquired the premises; they worked the maltings whilst the distillery remained silent until 1938.

During 1938 the distillery was taken over by Associated Scottish Distilleries and changed to produce grain whisky as the ‘Montrose Distillery’.

At some point in 1954 the distillery was sold to DCL, which made use of the warehouses and maltings only. Ten years later in 1964 control was moved to SMD and the distillery was reverted back to producing Malt Whisky this time under the name of ‘Hillside’.

In 1968 large drum maltings were installed to supply its malt to other SMD operations. The name was changed to Glenesk Distillery and Maltings in 1980.

Five years later the distillery was mothballed and in 1992 the license was cancelled.

Glenesk Whisky Tasting Notes

Distillery Style

Nose : Fresh and aromatic.

Palate : Medium light bodied. Sweet, malty and resiny.

Finish : Becoming dry and herbal.