Aultmore Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Aultmore single malt Scotch whisky is a classic Speyside malt celebrated for its light, fragrant style and understated elegance. Founded in 1897 by Alexander Edward, a prominent figure who also played a role in the creation of Benromach and Craigellachie, Aultmore has long been a favourite among whisky blenders. For much of its history, its single malt was rarely seen as a standalone bottling, making official releases a welcome opportunity for enthusiasts to explore this refined spirit in its pure form.

The distillery takes its name from the Gaelic “An t-Allt Mòr,” meaning “big burn,” a reference to the nearby burn that supplies its water. Located just north of Keith, Aultmore draws from the Foggie Moss, a soft, pure water source filtered naturally through moss and peat. This water contributes to the gentle, clean character of the whisky.

Aultmore’s production methods are designed to create a delicate, floral distillate. Long fermentation times help build fruity esters, while the use of tall copper pot stills with wide, open necks encourages lighter vapour to pass over into the spirit, resulting in a smooth, elegant new make. The style is typically unpeated, making it a fine introduction to Speyside whisky for those who prefer gentler flavours.

Historically, most of Aultmore’s output went into high-quality blended whiskies, including Dewar’s. It was only in 2014 that a renewed focus on official single malt releases brought the brand into the spotlight, with the launch of the Aultmore 12 Year Old, 21 Year Old, and 25 Year Old as part of the “Last Great Malts of Scotland” range from John Dewar & Sons. The 12 Year Old, in particular, offers a benchmark taste of Aultmore’s style, soft vanilla, apple, and pear notes balanced by fresh herbs and a touch of honeyed malt.

Maturation is typically in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, which emphasise the distillery’s light and fresh profile, though some releases make use of sherry casks for added richness and depth. Independent bottlers such as Gordon & MacPhail, Douglas Laing, and Signatory Vintage have also released Aultmore single casks, offering variations in style, from crisp and grassy to richer, fruit-driven expressions.

The distillery’s character is often described as “clean” and “aromatic,” with aromas of fresh-cut grass, floral meadow notes, and orchard fruit, leading to a palate of soft malt sweetness, light spice, and a refreshing finish. This delicacy makes Aultmore particularly versatile, it can be enjoyed neat, with a drop of water, or as part of a whisky flight showcasing contrasting regional styles.

For collectors, Aultmore’s limited availability and relative obscurity in the past add to its appeal. Its official range is attractively presented and offers excellent quality for the age, while older independent bottlings show how gracefully the spirit matures over decades.

Our Aultmore Single Malt Scotch Whisky selection features the core age statements alongside rare single casks and special editions. Whether you’re a long-time Speyside fan or exploring the region for the first time, Aultmore offers a graceful, aromatic style that is as rewarding as it is approachable.