Scotland’s whisky heritage is woven from tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. At Seven Cellars, we’re excited to bring you whiskies from the esteemed Adelphi distillery—a Western Highlands gem that exemplifies the art of whisky-making. Let’s explore whisky’s rich history and dive into what makes Adelphi so remarkable, along with some of the exquisite whiskies they produce, all available at Seven Cellars.
A Brief History of Whisky
Whisky, often referred to as the "water of life," has deep roots in Scottish culture, with records tracing back to the 15th century. Originating as a monastic distillation for medicinal use, whisky quickly gained popularity and evolved into a craft that has been refined over centuries. Distillation techniques improved, and regions developed distinct styles, giving rise to Scotland’s globally renowned whisky regions: Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside, Islay, and Campbeltown. Each region offers its own flavours, ranging from the peaty smoke of Islay to the fruity elegance of Speyside.
The Western Highlands, where Adelphi is located, is known for a balanced character, with coastal influences adding unique notes to the whisky. It’s here that Adelphi has crafted its own legacy of exceptional, complex whiskies that draw from this distinctive environment.
The Story of Adelphi Distillery
The Adelphi name is well over a century old, dating back to 1826 when the original distillery was established in Glasgow. Known for producing high-quality whisky even in its early years, Adelphi gained a reputation for excellence but, like many distilleries, was forced to close due to economic challenges. Revived in the 1990s, Adelphi returned with a mission: to seek out and produce whiskies of outstanding quality under its independent bottling label.
In 2014, Adelphi established the Ardnamurchan Distillery in the Western Highlands, bringing its expertise in independent bottling to whisky production. Ardnamurchan is fully committed to sustainability, using local barley, renewable energy, and even a unique natural cooling system for its warehouses. This dedication to quality and eco-friendly practices has quickly made Ardnamurchan a name to know in whisky.
Let’s explore some remarkable whiskies from Adelphi’s Ardnamurchan Distillery, each with a story and profile of its own.
Maclean’s Nose
Named after a stunning headland in Ardnamurchan, and also the partnership with esteemed whisky writer and industry veteran who mentored the Ardnamurchan distillery. Charles Maclean is known as "The Nose" and was a guide and mentor to the distillery. It is complete co-incidence that the headland is also known as Macleans nose - that really is some coincidence!
Maclean’s Nose offers a smooth, inviting profile. This whisky embodies the essence of the Highlands, combining coastal freshness with subtle hints of fruit and malt. Expect flavours of vanilla, gentle citrus, and a touch of spice, making it a perfect introduction to the Ardnamurchan style. It’s both approachable and complex, ideal for newcomers and seasoned whisky fans alike.
Ardnamurchan Sherry Cask 05/23
This release is truly special, with only a few remaining bottles at Seven Cellars. Aged in sherry casks, it carries rich notes of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a hint of spice from the European oak. This sherry cask finish adds a layer of depth to the whisky, making each sip a warm and luxurious experience. The limited availability of this bottle makes it an excellent choice for collectors or those looking to try something rare.
Ardnamurchan AD
The Ardnamurchan AD is a beautifully balanced whisky that showcases the distillery’s dedication to quality. Bottled at natural cask strength, it offers a pure expression of the distillery’s style—rich, complex, and subtly coastal. Expect flavours of honeyed malt, gentle peat smoke, and a hint of sea salt. This whisky is versatile and pairs wonderfully with food or can be enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its intricate flavours.
Ardnamurchan 09/22 – Cask Strength
For fans of bolder expressions, the Ardnamurchan 09/22 Cask Strength is a treat. Bottled without chill-filtration, this whisky has intense flavours of smoky peat, toasted oak, and dark fruit. The cask strength adds a powerful punch, and the flavour develops beautifully with a splash of water, revealing layers of caramel and a hint of brine. It’s a rich, intense whisky that’s perfect for those who enjoy a more robust dram.
Ardnamurchan - The Midgie
Named after the infamous Highland midge, this whisky is a celebration of Scotland’s rugged landscapes and natural charm. The Midgie offers a balance of peat smoke and sweet malt, with hints of honey and soft fruit. It’s a medium-bodied whisky that’s approachable yet complex, with just enough smoke to give it character without overwhelming the palate. This one is ideal for a cozy evening and pairs well with smoked meats or cheeses.
Ardnamurchan 10 Year Old – Unpeated
In a departure from the usual Highland style, this unpeated 10-Year-Old expression is a delightfully smooth whisky. With ten years in the cask, it has developed a round, rich profile, showcasing notes of orchard fruits, vanilla, and a hint of almond. The unpeated style allows the natural flavours of the Highland barley to shine through, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a gentler dram.
Ardnamurchan Sherry Cask 2024 Release
The latest sherry cask release from Ardnamurchan is a masterpiece in the making. Aged in select sherry casks, this whisky brims with rich, dark flavours—think raisins, figs, and a hint of spice. This sherry-forward whisky has a beautifully smooth texture and an elegant finish. Each sip is a journey into the depth of flavour that only a sherry cask can provide, perfect for whisky lovers looking for a sophisticated option.
Why Adelphi and Ardnamurchan Stand Out
Adelphi’s commitment to authenticity, quality, and sustainability has made it a standout in the world of whisky. Ardnamurchan Distillery represents both tradition and innovation, balancing time-honoured whisky-making methods with modern environmental practices. Each bottle, from Maclean’s Nose to the Ardnamurchan Sherry Cask, tells a story of dedication to craft and respect for the Highland environment.
At Seven Cellars, we’re proud to offer this remarkable selection from Adelphi’s Ardnamurchan Distillery. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast or just beginning to explore this complex spirit, there’s a dram here for everyone. Visit us in Brighton to experience these exceptional whiskies or buy online and bring a piece of the Western Highlands home. Cheers to the enduring craft of Scottish whisky!