After being quiet for over 30 years, one of Scotland’s most legendary distilleries, Rosebank—affectionately known as the “King of the Lowlands”—has fired up its stills again! Yep, in 2023, after a long and meticulous restoration, Rosebank is back in the whisky game. And the best part? In June 2024, it’s opening its doors to welcome visitors for the first time in decades. Get ready for tours, tastings, and a journey into the past with a splash of whisky magic.
A Stroll Down Memory Lane… or Canal Bank
Rosebank’s story is one of those where you realize that whisky isn’t just a drink—it’s a legacy. Picture this: it’s the late 1700s, and someone from the Stark family decides to set up a little distillery by the Forth & Clyde Canal, that winding waterway that linked Glasgow and Edinburgh. The location was perfect back then—transport by water was all the rage. But when the canal became a mess, clogged up and forgotten, the distillery’s future got a bit hazy.
Fast forward to today: the canal is alive again, with tourists flocking to Falkirk to see the iconic Falkirk Wheel. Now, it feels like everything has come full circle, like Rosebank was just waiting for the perfect moment to reemerge from the shadows.
The distillery’s roots go deep—back to 1798, when the Stark family first started distilling here. But it wasn’t until 1840 that Rosebank, as we know it, took shape under the care of James Rankine. For years, the whisky flowed, barrels rolled across little bridges, and Rosebank became the beating heart of Lowland whisky. It even helped form the Lowland Scottish Malt Distillers in 1914—no small feat!
Yet, despite the rich history and amazing whisky, Rosebank’s story took a heartbreaking turn in 1993 when the distillery shut its doors. Not because the whisky wasn’t top-notch (it totally was!), but because upgrading the distillery became too expensive, and road access wasn’t great. Oh, and there was a bit of drama when Rosebank missed out on being part of the famous Classic Malts selection. Legend has it that Glenkinchie was chosen over Rosebank because, well, no one wanted to promote a distillery next to a mucky, clogged canal. Talk about missed opportunities!
The comeback we’ve all been waiting for
Then came 2017, when Ian Macleod Distillers, with all their whisky wisdom, stepped in to save the day. They bought the site and the brand and set about reviving this sleeping beauty of a distillery. And let me tell you, they didn’t cut any corners. They brought back everything that made Rosebank special—its iconic copper stills, its elegant whisky style—and gave the distillery a makeover that blends its old-school charm with some seriously cool modern touches. There’s even a stunning glass stillhouse now, right next to the historic mill building by the canal.
And for those who love a good landmark, you’ll be happy to know that Rosebank’s 108-foot chimney is back to its full glory, standing tall like a lighthouse over Falkirk. Starting in June 2024, you’ll be able to visit and see it all for yourself. Tours will range from casual strolls through whisky history with a cheeky tasting or two, to ultra-exclusive, VIP experiences where you’ll get to try rare, one-of-a-kind Rosebank expressions.
A Toast to the Revival
Rosebank’s revival is a bit like catching up with an old friend who’s been off the radar for way too long. And the excitement is palpable—so much so that they’ve already opened up reservations for tours. Malcolm Rennie, the distillery manager, can’t wait to welcome everyone. And honestly, neither can I.
As someone who’s deeply passionate about whisky, I’m planning on making Rosebank one of my next “Whisky Adventures,” and I’d love for you to join me. Seriously, if you’re up for it, shoot me an email—we’ll make it happen!
Why Rosebank is worth the hype
Now, let’s dive into what really sets Rosebank apart—the whisky. Because, let’s be honest, at the heart of this grand comeback, it all comes down to what’s in the glass, right? And trust me, Rosebank’s whisky isn’t just any whisky; it’s something truly special.
Rosebank produces a Lowland Single Malt, which is known for being lighter and more delicate than some of the robust whiskies from the Highlands or Islay. But what makes Rosebank unique is its triple distillation process. Most Scotch whiskies are distilled twice, but Rosebank takes that extra step, making the whisky even smoother and more refined. This triple distillation, combined with the fact that their whisky is unpeated, results in a spirit that’s light, floral, and delightfully fruity. It’s the kind of whisky that dances across your palate, refreshing and delicate like a breeze of spring air.
When you take a sip of Rosebank, you’re greeted with bright citrus notes—think lemon zest, mixed with hints of vanilla and a touch of sweet barley. It’s a beautifully balanced whisky that feels like summer in a glass, with every sip bringing a wave of elegance and charm. It’s no wonder that Rosebank has often been called the “King of the Lowlands.”
But here’s where things get even more interesting: Rosebank still uses traditional worm tub condensers. These old-school contraptions are a rarity in modern distilleries, and they add an extra layer of complexity to the whisky. Worm tubs cool the alcohol vapor more slowly and involve less contact with copper than modern condensers, which means that Rosebank’s whisky retains a slight heaviness, a richer body, despite its otherwise light and floral character. This balance between lightness and depth is what makes Rosebank so unforgettable—it’s the best of both worlds.
For those who really want to experience the pinnacle of Rosebank’s craftsmanship, let’s talk about their most legendary bottle: the “Rosebank 40-Year-Old 1978 Release.” This is the stuff of dreams for any whisky collector. Only 473 bottles of this gem were ever made, making it as rare as it is extraordinary. After spending four decades maturing in refill sherry hogsheads, this whisky emerges with an incredibly refined and delicate flavor profile—expect notes of citrus blossoms, creamy vanilla, wild honey, and just the faintest hint of oak. It’s the kind of whisky that demands your full attention, sip by sip.
At around $3,000 a bottle, it’s certainly a luxury, but considering its rarity and the sheer artistry that went into its creation, it’s a bottle that any serious whisky collector would consider a crown jewel. It’s more than just whisky—it’s history, craftsmanship, and the essence of Rosebank in a single bottle.
To conclude…whether you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one of their rare bottles or simply curious to try a dram, Rosebank will never disappoint. Here’s to one of the finest whisky revivals we’ll ever witness—may its legend continue to grow, sip by sip.
Sláinte!