Glengoyne was founded in 1833, though the exact date and the founders' identities are somewhat unclear. The name "Glengoyne" itself is derived from the Gaelic terms "Glen", meaning valley, and "Goyne", which refers to the “burn” or stream that runs near the distillery.
The distillery has been through various ownerships over the years, with the Ian Macleod Distillers group acquiring it in 2003. Since then, Glengoyne has continued to grow in popularity, particularly for its high-quality, sherried whiskies.
The distillery sits at the foot of the Trossachs National Park, surrounded by picturesque hills, streams, and woodlands. Its location is significant because it lies on the boundary between the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland, which influences the character of its whisky.
Glengoyne uses water from the Glengoyne burn, a clear, soft water source that helps produce a smoother, more refined spirit.
One of Glengoyne's defining characteristics is its commitment to using sherry casks for aging its whisky. The distillery uses a combination of European oak sherry casks (which impart rich, spicy, and fruity flavors) and American oak bourbon casks (which contribute sweetness and vanilla notes).
Unlike many distilleries, Glengoyne avoids using peat during the malting process, focusing on the natural sweetness of the malted barley.
Glengoyne is one of the few distilleries in Scotland that manages to balance traditional methods with modern techniques, producing high-quality, approachable whiskies that are both accessible and refined. Its dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and sustainability has earned it a place among Scotland’s top distilleries.
