Blair Athol

With a history dating back to 1798, Blair Athol is one of the oldest operating distilleries in Scotland. It’s based next to the Highland town of Pitlochry, in Perth, sourcing its water from the ancient Allt Dour burn. In fact, the distillery was originally founded under the name ‘Aldour’, until changing in the early 19th century.

The style of whisky is malty and spicy, but this spirit is particularly favoured for its nutty quality. There are also undertones of honey and herbal flavours. It pairs well with sherry casks, but most of the distillery’s product is aged in ex-bourbon barrels. 

Blair Athol was acquired by Arthur Bell & Sons (now part of Diaego) in 1933, and as such, the majority of their output is used in Bell’s Blended Whisky. Only a small amount is reserved for their own 12 year old expression, which is released under the Flora and Fauna range. This is a delicious sherry-matured single malt, that despite its quality, often falls under the radar.