Speyside single malt whisky brand The Glenlivet has joined forces with the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) in a new project to uncover the country’s illicit distilling past.
Together, they plan to research the sites of around 30 former illegal stills at locations owned by the company and the charity, from Torridon and Kintail in the north, to the Grey Mare’s Tail, near Moffat, in the south.
The project has been inspired by the story of The Glenlivet’s founder, George Smith, who operated illicitly before becoming the first legal distiller in the parish of Glenlivet, in 1824.
It is being led by the trust’s head of archaeology, Derek Alexander and Chris Brousseau, archivist of the whisky brand, which is part of French drink giant Pernod Ricard’s portfolio.
Miriam Eceolaza, global marketing director for The Glenlivet, said: “We are proud to be supporting the National Trust for Scotland and the amazing work they do to protect and celebrate what makes Scotland unique. As a brand that holds so much history in the distilling of Scotch whisky, we are looking forward to learning more about the illicit trade that our founder was involved in, as well as the lasting impact it has had on the country’s rich heritage.
“We hope that through this partnership we can continue to educate and inspire whisky drinkers everywhere on the original story and taste of The Glenlivet.”
Mr Alexander added: “Our charity is always searching for new ways to tell Scotland’s stories and this project will help us shed light on a really fascinating era, which has shaped our culture and our landscapes too.
“With the goal of uncovering and sharing the stories behind Scotland’s illicit whisky industry, it’s only fitting we partner with a name that is so firmly part of this story.
“We’re looking forward to working closely with The Glenlivet to carry out th.is groundbreaking conservation project and uncovering new and interesting stories.”
