Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond distillery, established in 1966 as part of the 1960s distillery building wave, has a fascinating history marked by changing ownership and a focus on innovation. Originally, it was a joint partnership between Duncan Thomas, the owner of Littlemill (now demolished), and Chicago-based Barton Brands. Barton Brands took full control in 1971 but closed it in 1984 due to industry challenges. Inver House briefly owned Loch Lomond in 1985 before it was acquired by Glen Catrine Bonded Warehouse Ltd in 1986. Under Glen Catrine's ownership, Loch Lomond became one of Scotland's most versatile and innovative distilleries, specializing in private label and export business.

In 2014, the distillery changed hands again when it was sold to private equity firm Exponent, forming Loch Lomond Group. This new division, headed by former Diageo executives, brought fresh energy to the distillery. Loch Lomond's uniqueness lies in its diverse production capabilities. It boasts a range of pot stills, continuous stills, and traditional swan-neck pot stills, allowing for the creation of 11 different distillates, not including the spirit produced at Glen Scotia, another distillery in its portfolio.

Loch Lomond's innovative approach includes the use of wine yeasts like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc yeast, resulting in a fruity beer for fermentation. The distillery prioritizes long fermentation times of at least 90 hours to enhance the fruity character of its whisky. The distillery produces a variety of single malt brands, including Inchmurrin, Inchmoan, Inchfad, Old Rosdhu, Croftengea, and Craiglodge, with some available as official and independent bottlings. Loch Lomond's commitment to experimentation and craftsmanship makes it a notable player in the whisky industry.