Glencadam Distillery welcomes new leadership ahead of landmark visitor centre launch

Glencadam Distillery has appointed Michael van der Veen as brand home manager and Lauren Oliver as deputy brand home manager to enhance the future offering at the new state-of-the-art visitor centre, as anticipation builds for the unveiling this autumn.

Both Michael and Lauren bring with them a wealth of experience in the whisky industry and will play a pivotal role in shaping an unforgettable experience at the Brechin destination, set to open in the distillery’s bicentenary year.

Michael, who holds a SVQ Diploma in Single Malt Whisky (EWA) and WSET Level 3 Award in Wines, has over 25 years of experience within the hospitality sector. He joins Glencadam from the Kingsbarns and Darnley’s Distilleries where he was the visitor experience manager, curating educational and engaging experiences. The Netherlands-native also previously held food and beverage and customer experience roles at prestigious private members clubs Skibo Castle and The Eden Club, as well as the five-star Links House at Royal Dornoch.

Michael van der Veen, brand home manager, said: “I love working in whisky and Glencadam Distillery’s values resonate deeply, with a true appreciation for the rich history, heritage and craftsmanship behind the brand.”

“As part of an independently owned business, this role gives me the opportunity to help shape a truly immersive, memorable experience here in the Highlands as we let visitors into the heart of what makes Glencadam truly special with 200 years of stories, substance and soul to uncover.”

Lauren, who holds a GCD in Distilling & Brewing from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, has over a decade of experience in the whisky sector working in distilleries across the Highlands and Speyside regions. Joining from her role as visitor experience manager at Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery, Lauren is perfectly suited to bring Glencadam’s story alive.

Lauren Oliver, deputy brand home manager, added: “Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of Scotch, I’ve developed not just a deep technical knowledge, but an ever-growing passion for sharing the story of the ‘water of life”

“Being part of the team at Glencadam at such a monumental time as the distillery celebrates 200 years of whisky-making heritage is a fantastic opportunity – one I’m proud to be part of. It’s an exciting chapter for the whisky community but also the entire Angus community as we prepare to open up the world of Glencadam.”

With the visitor centre due to open to the public in late autumn, these appointments mark a key milestone in the project’s journey. The opening is also expected to bring a welcome boost to the Angus economy, generating fresh opportunities and investment in the local area.

The development of the new visitor centre comes at a momentous time for Glencadam as the distillery celebrates its 200th anniversary. Dating back to 1825, Glencadam is one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries, steeped in history, heritage and tradition, handcrafting single malt Scotch whisky in a process that’s remained unchanged for two centuries.

The new visitor centre will allow visitors and locals alike to explore Glencadam’s vibrant story, with a dedicated exhibition space showcasing the history of the East Highland distillery and its surroundings. The visitor centre will also house a retail space and tasting rooms, as well as a whisky lounge, café and function suite for corporate hospitality and private hire.

Keep up to date with progress via www.GlencadamWhisky.com or follow on social @GlencadamWhisky.

Note: There has been no impact to production during the construction period.

Glencadam Distillery

Established in 1825, Glencadam Distillery is steeped in history, heritage and tradition, handcrafting single malt Scotch whisky in a process that’s remained unchanged for 200 years. In 2021, Glencadam Distillery re-installed a working internal waterwheel, modelled on the original which was used to power the distillery back in in 1825.

One of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, Glencadam was mothballed for several years before it was purchased and re-opened by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003.

Today, Glencadam’s multi-award-winning range includes American Oak Reserve, Reserva Andalucía, the 10-Year-Old, 13-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, 18-Year-Old and 25-Year-Old expressions, as well as a series of special cask finishes.

Visit www.glencadamwhisky.com to find out more.

Major milestone for world whisky with the launch of Sullivans Cove 25 Years Old

Sullivans Cove has earned its status as a pioneer of new world whisky. Founded in Tasmania in 1994, the distillery was among the vanguard of new whisky producers — not just in Australia, but in the worldwide development of whiskies outside of the spirit’s traditional heartlands.

Award-Winning Single Malts- In 2014, the Sullivans Cove cemented its international reputation when it won World’s Best Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards for its 12-year-old French Oak single-cask whisky — the first distillery outside of Scotland or Japan to do so. Its win shook the whisky landscape, defying expectations of where in the world the best single malt whiskies could come from.

Since then, Sullivans Cove has maintained its world-class status, winning the title of World’s Best Single Cask Single Malt consecutively in 2018 and 2019 for its American Oak and French Oak expressions, showcasing the distillery’s expertise in the precise maturation of single malt whisky.

A Quarter-Century Milestone

Now, Sullivans Cove is marking another major milestone. Revealed this week, Sullivans Cove 25 Years Old is the oldest single malt whisky ever bottled in Australia — and the implications go beyond one country. It’s a significant moment in the coming of age of new world whisky, offering a first taste of high-age statement single malt from non-traditional whisky regions.

The distillery has revealed two single-cask, quarter-century bottlings: Single Cask No HH0056, matured in an American oak ex-bourbon barrel, with a yield of 134 bottles, which will be available by invitation only. With a more generous — although still extremely exclusive — output of 349 bottles, the second release is from Single Cask No HH0010.

Sullivans Cove is releasing its 25 Years Old Single Cask HH0010 by ballot — meaning you have the opportunity taste this highly limited bottling for yourself. Sign up to the ballot for your chance to claim a bottle.

Interesting and Delicious

Matured in a 300-litre American oak second fill cask, the 25-year-old Cask No HH0010 balances “the interesting and the delicious”, according to Heather Tillott, distillery manager. “HH0010 is one of the defining casks in shaping Sullivans Cove’s approach to careful maturation,” she added.

The casks were laid down in 1999 by Patrick Maguire, former Sullivans Cove distillery manager and owner. Patrick couldn’t know then, in the nascent years of Australian whisky, that two-and-a-half decades later these two casks would come to represent the coming of age of new world whisky.

“To see two of our casks mature out to 25 years is something we did not expect,” admitted Patrick. He added, “We had hope that our locally grown barley and pure Tasmanian water would be the basis for great things.”

Precision, Perfected

The hope came true: Sullivans Cove’s expert use of Tasmania’s ingredients and climate has proven itself repeatedly, through its awards, milestones, and international recognition.

Every step in Sullivans Cove’s whisky making is designed to create the ideal conditions for long maturations. Extended fermentation times create rich and complex wash that is distilled in Charentais-style alembic stills. A traditional worm tub condenser adds clarity and texture to the nuanced spirit. Casks are expertly selected — Sullivans Cove uses exclusively large casks, which over the years develop the spirit into a complex, layered whisky.

At the time of its founding, Sullivans Cove was a bold leap: a purpose-built single malt whisky distillery, on the opposite side of the globe from the style’s traditional Scottish home. It takes trust, patience, and a wholehearted respect for the spirit to create a long-aged spirit from these origins, but Sullivans Cove’s dedication to craftmanship and precision was indefatigable.

Thirty years on, the distillery has shown that world-class single malts can come from any region — whether its whisky traditions are years, decades, or centuries old.

Wish to discuss Sullivans Cove award winning range with their team, please email concierge@sullivanscove.com

From Cask to Glass: Discover Our Distillery Experiences

At Glengoyne, every drop of whisky tells a story, and every visit offers a chance to be part of it. From crafting your own Highland Single Malt to tasting our award-winning collection, pouring a rare single cask, or joining a unique storytelling experience, there’s something special waiting for you at the distillery.

Whether you’re seeking flavour, heritage, or a dram with a tale, explore our unforgettable experiences and discover the spirit of Glengoyne.

OUR DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE

The Malt Master Tour

Create Your Own Highland Single Malt

A unique opportunity to step into the role of the Malt Master and craft your own Highland Single Malt whisky, tailored entirely to your personal taste. After a guided tour of our distillery, you’ll head to the Sample Room, where you’ll create a bespoke single malt using cask strength whiskies specially selected from our warehouses. Your final creation is bottled by hand and wax sealed. A one-of-a-kind Glengoyne, made by you.

Distillery Cask #1831

Our current Pour Your Own Single Cask release is likely to sell out soon.   Available exclusively at Glengoyne Distillery, this is a rare release that beautifully showcases the influence of Pedro Ximénez sherry and European oak.

Distilled on 17th November 2010 and bottled at a bold 54.2% ABV, this whisky has matured for 14 years, developing remarkable depth and character.

The whisky glows a rich amber in the glass, with a nose full of ripe red apple skin, juicy peach, and rosehip syrup, delicately layered with toffee and milk chocolate. On the palate, lush red stone fruits take centre stage, unfolding into warming spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, all softened by elegant oak.

A smooth and lingering finish, carrying gentle warmth and delicate spice.

PLAN YOUR VISIT NOW

NEW RELEASE

HARMONY COLLECTION INSPIRED BY ORGANIC CHERRYWOOD LAPSANG TEA

We are delighted to share that The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired By Organic Cherrywood Lapsang Tea is available exclusively at The Macallan Global Airport Boutiques and select duty free locations around the world from the 1st October 2025. There will be limited availability worldwide.

This limited annual Collection explores our future packaging journey by embracing the use of organic materials and creating beauty from resources at the end of their natural lives.

Harmony Collection Inspired By Organic Cherrywood Lapsang Tea is a collaboration with JING, producers of exceptional teas. A coming together to celebrate the parallels between The Macallan single malt Scotch whisky and single garden tea.

 EXPLORE THE WHISKY

Inspired By Organic Cherrywood Lapsang Tea is matured in a combination of sherry seasoned European and American oak casks and has taken inspiration from JING’s Organic Cherrywood Lapsang.

NATURAL COLOUR

Patinated cherrywood.

AROMA

Rich toffee and dates with warming spice, bursts of ripe berries and charred citrus peel, all enveloped with an aromatic charred oak smoke.

PALATE

Creamy toffee and rich citrus with vibrant oak spices, sweet and malty follow with a whisp of smoke to finish.

FINISH

Creamy and sweet aromatic oak.

ABV

44.9%

A Guide to Islay Whisky

The island of Islay in the Inner Hebrides is known for heavily peated whiskies with a distinctive sense of place. So, if you like your single malts on the smoky side this is the perfect place to look. But what many people don’t realise, is that not all Islay whisky is smoky.

​Learn more
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Our collection schedule for November 2025 has now been finalised. This month we have included a trip to Orkney. Please click HERE to see the list of dates, locations and to register your interest in the collection service.

The deadline for collection requests is 12noon on Monday 10th November 2025.

Home collections are available for those customers sending 10+ bottles or bottles to the value of £1000. Lots can be split over the next three auctions.   Unfortunately this service is not available in London. Although we do have four collection points in London. Collections are limited and offered on a first come first served basis. It is essential that a submission sheet is completed, you can find the link to do so under the selling section on your ‘My SWA’ page. It would be appreciated if bottles could be packed for uplift with your name clearly marked on the front of the box. A winner in our auction? We are now offering a delivery service to customers who are dropping bottles off for a future auction. This service is charged at £12 (inc. VAT), optional loss and breakage cover is available.

KANDOBLANC’S ‘DRAGON IN CLOUDS’ REACHES

A LANDMARK US $142,433 AT DISTILLERS ONE OF ONE AUCTION

-Highest lot price achieved by an independent company in this year’s auction-

KANDOBLANC – the visionary Maison at the intersection of art, culture and rare whisky – has achieved a landmark moment as its one-of-a-kind creation, Dragon in Clouds, sold for US $142,433 at the Distillers One of One auction in partnership with Sotheby’s – the highest lot price achieved by an independent boutique company and sixth highest all the 39 lots – more than doubling KANDOBLANC’s previous auction record.

The auction furthered KANDOBLANC’s commitment to cultural contribution, with 100% of proceeds from Dragon in Clouds donated to The Distillers’ Charity in support of the Youth Action Fund, which supports transformative opportunities for disadvantaged young people across Scotland. All 39 one-of-a-kind lots were presented at the event, collectively raising US $3,882,102 for charitable causes.

“Beyond the auction result, we see meaning in what this contribution enables”, said Dhavall Gandhi, founder and artistic director of KANDOBLANC. “Empowering the youth isn’t just about giving them resources; it’s about giving them opportunities to thrive. The impactful work of the Distillers’ charity is an investment in a brighter tomorrow for everyone.  As a Maison devoted to cultural sustainability, we are proud and honoured to be part of this journey.”

Beanie Espey-Geraedts, MD of Distillers One of One said: “It is very special to us to know that this exceptional sum that has been raised will have a direct impact on Scotland’s disadvantaged youth.”

Dragon in Clouds is a one-of-a-kind piece that embodies a rare convergence of artistic traditions, uniting Japanese craftsmanship with Italian glassmaking mastery. Developed over two years, the vision was brought to life through a cross-cultural collaboration that united KANDOBLANC with master artisans, artists, makers, designers, and visual storytellers from around the world.

At the creation’s heart lies a 60-year-old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a spirit of extraordinary rarity and refinement. Matured for six decades in refill Sherry casks, it reveals a complex depth that is restrained and elegant.

Beyond its aesthetic achievements, Dragon in Clouds represents KANDOBLANC’s commitment to artistic sustainability and the preservation of artisanal knowledge and heritage techniques. By creating economically viable projects for master craftsmen, the maison ensures these ancient skills continue to evolve rather than merely survive.

Dragon in Clouds arrives at a moment when collectors and patrons are seeking objects with authentic cultural narrative and emotional depth. The Maison plans to unveil further details about its upcoming singular piece inspired by Mount Fuji.

The Distillers One of One auction took place at Hopetoun House, Edinburgh, on Friday 10^th October with auction partner Sotheby’s. All proceeds support The Distillers’ Charity and its vital mission.

ABOUT DHAVALL GANDHI:

Dhavall Gandhi is the founder and creative visionary behind KANDOBLANC, a Maison devoted to uniting art, culture, and rare whisky through one-of-a-kind creations. Originally from India, Dhavall’s creative journey began with a heightened sensory awareness and a concept-driven imagination. As a child, he could identify pencil brands by scent alone and recall spaces through smell – early signs of a sensorial language that would shape his future.

Though academically trained in finance and economics, a formative trip to Scotland sparked his fascination with whisky. A later visit to Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail crystallised his calling, leading to a Master’s in Brewing & Distilling and roles with Heineken, The Macallan, and The Lakes Distillery.

Profoundly influenced by Japanese aesthetics and philosophy, Dhavall founded KANDOBLANC in 2023 to honour and reimagine heritage craftsmanship through contemporary art forms. His debut creation AGA, unveiled at the Distillers

One of One auction, fused Murano glassmaking with Japanese kintsugi and set two world records. Through KANDOBLANC, Dhavall is shaping a distinct creative space — where rare whisky becomes a medium for cultural expression and a point of entry into the world of heritage craftsmanship. Each creation is designed to foster emotional connection and lasting meaning, guided by a belief that the most enduring experiences are those that move us.

ABOUT KANDOBLANC:

Founded in 2023 by Gandhi, KANDOBLANC represents a bold new paradigm in high craft, where rare whisky serves as both medium and narrative device within meticulously crafted contemporary heirlooms. The maison’s debut creation, AGA, unveiled at Distillers One of One in 2023, immediately established itself by setting two world records, while introducing Gandhi’s multidisciplinary vision to the international world of collectible design and superhuman craftsmanship.

KANDOBLANC’s vision is of cultural curation, where each piece bridges traditional mastery with contemporary artistic expression. Our philosophy centres on kandō, the Japanese concept of quiet beauty that moves the soul, manifesting through objects that transcend mere luxury to become vehicles for cultural preservation and emotional resonance.

Driven by his lifelong artistic quest, founder Dhavall Gandhi discovered profound resonance between his personal sensibility and an enduring reverence for Japanese culture. This connection informs KANDOBLANC’s philosophical approach, rooted in timeless artistic evolution and refined elegance.

Each of the creations begin with this foundation — a deep respect for heritage artforms coupled with an unwavering commitment to their preservation. Through a meticulous blend of creativity, culture, and philosophy, we honour the principles of artistic sustainability.

Our vision manifests itself in carefully crafted objets d’art and contemporary heirlooms, creating a lasting legacy in the form of a living museum of modern meaning. Yet, beyond creation, our work embodies a mission of cultural sustainability, preserving artisanal mastery and heritage craftsmanship.

At KANDOBLANC, we celebrate evolution, collaboration, and cultural convergence.  Encapsulating a desire for whisky as a gateway to a new world, we celebrate the seamless unity of beauty and culture. Calling on the artistry of rare whisky as medium in the pursuit of creative expression and excellence. 

ABOUT THE DISTILLERS ONE OF ONE® AUCTION CHARITY AND THE DISTILLERS’ CHARITY:

The Distillers One of One Auction is a biennial series of ultra-rare whisky auctions, which launched in 2021. To date, the Auctions have raised £4.3 million, principally awarded to the Youth Action Fund with the aim of supporting young people in Scotland, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to reach their potential and make a positive contribution to their communities. The Youth Action Fund’s portfolio charities are Aberdeen Foyer, Action for Children, Enable Works, Fare, Street League and The Talk About Trust. They are collectively managed by Inspiring Scotland.

More than 3,300 young people have been engaged through the Youth Action Fund since its inception in early 2022, benefiting from the work the fund’s dedicated charity partners have undertaken, and dramatically increasing their opportunities to enter the workforce. These young people have significantly improved their long-term prospects, either securing employment (33%), progressing to further/higher education (28%), pursuing other vocational training and apprenticeships (19%), or re-engaging with school (15%). The cumulative employability outcome (to June 2025) currently stands at 2,271.

A total of eighty-one unique lots have been donated across the 2021 and 2023 auctions, 37 of which broke world sales records for the distilleries who created and donated them. The Distillers One of One has earned its reputation as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for collectors: no two bottles are ever the same, and no lot will ever be recreated. Each lot is imbued with the spirit of craftsmanship and exclusivity, representing the pinnacle of Scotch whisky.

The Distillers One of One® is a trading name of The Distillers’ Ventures Limited, a company registered in England & Wales under company number 13264121 and registered office at 9 Bonhill Street, London EC2A 4PE.

The Distillers One of One returned to Hopetoun House, near Edinburgh, Scotland, for its third iteration on 10^th October 2025.

The Distillers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (no1193683) and Scotland (SC052075)

One of One® and Distillers One of One® are registered trademarks of The Distillers’ Charity

https://www.distillersoneofone.com/

@distillers_one_of_one

Benbecula Secures £1.5M Investment

We’re proud to share some exciting news: Benbecula Distillery has secured a £1.5 million investment from the British Business Bank’s Investment Fund for Scotland, delivered via Maven Capital Partners.

This is the fund’s first equity investment in the Highlands & Islands, and it marks an important milestone for us at the distillery and our island community.

The investment will help us scale production, expand our team on the island, and enhance our visitor experiences, ensuring we can keep laying down spirit for generations to come. It’s a vote of confidence in the Outer Hebrides’ potential and in our vision to craft a whisky that reflects this remarkable place.

Featured in Whisky Advocate

Cask Programme in the Spotlight

Since launching our 2025 Private Cask Programme in September, we’ve been delighted by the response, with strong interest from whisky enthusiasts around the world.  The story behind the programme, and what makes it unique to the Outer Hebrides, was recently featured by Whisky Advocate, one of the world’s leading whisky publications. Read the full feature here → Whisky Advocate: Benbecula Distillery Cask Ownership

Casks are moving quickly but you can still secure your 2025 Benbecula Cask — just a few months left!

Hatozaki Finest Whisky

A premium blend of whiskies, aged up to 12 years in barrel with a minimum malt. Light in style with a rich backbone of malt whisky character. Cereal notes and a light sweetness allow for the whisky to be used in both highball and straight pours. The Yonezawa family’s experimentation with distilling started over a century ago, in 1917, and has been part of their legacy ever since. The distillery sits on the coast, swept by sea winds and salty breezes, which gives many benefits for the aging of whisky.

40% ABV | SRP: $45.99 |

(Photo Credit: Hatozaki Whisky)

The Evolution of the Pot Still in Scotland by Iain Russell, Part 1

The pot still is one of Scotch whisky’s most enduring symbols but its form and function have evolved dramatically over the centuries. In this first instalment, whisky historian Iain Russell explores how early cauldrons became copper stills, how taxation spurred innovation and how distillers balanced speed, flavour and tradition.

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