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Rosebank names Malcolm Rennie distillery manager
Lowland whisky producer Rosebank has welcomed Malcolm Rennie to the team as its new distillery manager.
Rennie will oversee the whole production process at Rosebank, from the new make spirit to cask selection and maturation.
He said: “Rosebank is an iconic distillery, so it is an absolute honour to be given the opportunity to help bring it back to life.
“The whisky is incredibly well-regarded in the industry because of its unique, and somewhat contradictory production process.
“The triple distillation gives you a light and fruity spirit, but then we run it through a worm-tub condenser, which adds real body, texture and weight to the new make.”
Rosebank is owned by Ian Macleod Distillers. Rennie will also work with the company’s distillation manager, Robbie Hughes, and malt master, John Glass.
The new Rosebank distillery manager boasts 35 years of distilling experience, having worked across Scotland, from Ayrshire to Islay.
Most recently, Malcolm helped open Ayrshire’s new Lochlea Distillery. He has also worked with Ardbeg, Glen Moray, Bruichladdich, and more.
Furthermore, he also helped to revive the dormant Annandale Distillery after 90 years.
Rosebank eyes summer completion
Rosebank’s restoration has been delayed because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, construction has picked up in recent months – and production is expected to begin towards the end of summer.
The 108ft chimney has been renewed, while inside the mash tun has now been installed, along with the process tanks, and mill and grist case.
The three stills are due to arrive at the distillery in the next few weeks, made by coppersmith Forsyths to the exact dimensions of those used at the distiller 30 years ago.
Rennie added: “Our ambition is to recreate that unctuous, floral spirit that everyone remembers and loves. With limited stocks remaining from the 90s, there’s no doubt it will be a challenge, but we won’t stop until we get that perfect Rosebank balance correct.”
Ian Macleod Distillers acquired the Rosebank site in October 2017, along with the last remaining stocks. Once the restoration is complete, the 1,000sqm site will include an energy-efficient distillery, a visitor centre, tasting room, shop and warehouse.