Almost 30 years after being shuttered, Rosebank — once one of Scotland’s premiere Lowland whisky distilleries — is preparing to open its doors once again, and is whetting Scotch lovers’ appetites with the launch of a 31 Year Old whisky. The rare bottling was drawn from casks that were salvaged before the distillery’s closure in the early 1990s.
The Rosebank 31 Year Old is composed of scarce stocks from just before Falkirk site was mothballed in 1993. Despite spending over three decades in casks, the Lowland single malt retains a bright and zesty nose, with hints of lime and lemongrass. This light, vibrant profile continues onto the palate, where mint and chamomile are met with more robust notes of leather and banana bread. The finish features long herbal notes, sweet peaches, and a hint of oak.
“This is the first Rosebank release during my tenure as Distillery Manager and I’m under no illusions as to the importance of this launch,” noted Malcolm Rennie, Rosebank Distillery Manager. “The spirit was distilled before the distillery closed its doors and has matured in casks ever since, waiting to be awoken.
“It fills me with great pride to know that the 31 Year Old will be the last ‘old Rosebank’ release before the distillery is reopened to the public. The revival of this sleeping giant is a huge moment for the whisky community, but most importantly for the people of Falkirk who have patiently awaited its return for three decades.”
In October of 2020, Rosebank released a 30 Year Old whisky, its first official release since being purchased by Ian Macleod Distillers in 2017.
Bottled at 48.1% ABV, the Rosebank 31 Year Old is priced at £1,800 per 70cl bottle and can be purchased via the brand’s official website.