Rosebank Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Rosebank is one of Scotland’s most legendary Lowland single malt distilleries, celebrated for its light, floral spirit and considered by many whisky enthusiasts as the “King of the Lowlands.” Founded in 1840 on the banks of the Forth & Clyde Canal in Falkirk, Rosebank produced whisky for over 150 years before closing in 1993 during the industry downturn of the late 20th century.

For decades, the distillery’s triple-distilled spirit was revered for its delicacy, complexity, and balance, a style that epitomised the Lowland tradition but with more weight and character than many of its regional peers. Despite its closure, Rosebank’s reputation only grew, with original bottlings and independent releases becoming highly sought-after collectors’ items.

Distillery History

The site’s distilling history stretches back to the early 19th century, but it was under the ownership of James Rankine in 1840 that Rosebank as we know it began. Its position alongside the canal allowed for easy transport of barley and whisky, helping it thrive during the Victorian whisky boom. Over the decades, Rosebank built a reputation for producing an elegant, fragrant malt that blended well yet shone as a single malt in its own right.

Production Style

Rosebank was famous for its triple distillation, more commonly associated with Irish whiskey, which produced an exceptionally smooth and refined spirit. This process, combined with the use of worm tub condensers, created a whisky that was both delicately floral and richly textured. Long fermentations encouraged the development of fruity, estery flavours, while maturation in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks added depth and complexity.

Tasting notes from historical bottlings often highlight aromas of honeysuckle, citrus blossom, and green apple, with a palate offering pear, lemon zest, vanilla cream, and a gentle herbal quality, all wrapped in a silky mouthfeel and clean, lingering finish.

Closure and Rarity

In 1993, Rosebank was mothballed as part of a cost-cutting move by then-owner United Distillers (now Diageo), with production ceasing and equipment removed. The closure, combined with the distillery’s sterling reputation, made remaining stocks highly prized. Original distillery bottlings, such as the 12-Year-Old Flora & Fauna and the rare 1979 and 1981 vintage releases, now command significant prices on the secondary market.

Independent bottlers, including Gordon & MacPhail, Signatory Vintage, and Cadenhead’s, have also released casks, but these are increasingly scarce.

Revival

In 2017, Ian Macleod Distillers announced the acquisition of the Rosebank brand and site, along with plans to rebuild the distillery. The revival aims to faithfully recreate the original production methods — including triple distillation — while modernising facilities for sustainability and efficiency. The first spirit from the new Rosebank is expected to mature into official releases in the coming years, a prospect eagerly awaited by the whisky community.

Today’s Rosebank

Our Rosebank selection features rare, original-era bottlings and carefully sourced independent releases that capture the essence of this iconic Lowland malt. Whether you’re a collector seeking a historic dram or a whisky lover keen to experience one of Scotland’s most elegant styles, Rosebank offers a unique combination of history, rarity, and Lowland finesse, a whisky that remains as enchanting today as it was in its heyday.