Banff Speyside Whisky Distillery

Many illicit distilleries went legal in 1824 due to the Excise Act in 1823 and Banff distillery was one of them. It is fair to say this distillery has had its share of bad luck. A fire destroyed it in 1877 and was rebuilt complete with fire engine as a keepsake. During World War 2 Banff distillery was hit by a lone German Bomber. This sent casks flying into the surrounding area with some animals dying from alcohol poisoning and some just having a jolly good time. Farmers were unable to milk cows for days due to them being intoxicated. The run of bad luck followed Banff distillery and an explosions during metal work at the distillery meant it had to be rebuilt for a 3rd time. Due to problems with water supply it partially closed in 1983 and fully closed in 1991 after yet another fire burnt down the last remaining warehouse.

It is thought the name Banff (the same as the nearby town of Banff) comes from the Banbh a Gaelic name for Ireland. There are many independent bottling’s of Banff and due to the extraordinary history and the closure these command quite a high price.

Taste: Fruity and Spicy on the nose with oak to taste and finished with a subtle smokiness.