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Glenturret ditches peat

Lalique Group-owned The Glenturret Distillery will transition away from using peated malt next year.

The Glenturret Distillery
The Glenturret has released a peated whisky annually since 2009

The transition will begin with the removal of peat in production in 2025, with peated expressions in the core range removed from 2026.

The Glenturret debuted Ruadh Maor, a peat-smoked expression, in 2009, which has been produced annually since, along with other unpeated liquids.

The decision has been made ‘with a clear future house style in mind’, one that ‘celebrates the distillery’s distinctive light and fruitful new-make spirit, nurtured in predominantly American oak Sherry-seasoned casks’.

The Glenturret was acquired by the Lalique Group in March 2019, with the firm making significant changes to the brand since, including the launch of a gin brand and an estate house earlier this year.

The brand stated that prior to its acquisition, much of its spirit was distilled and matured with blending in mind, which favoured heavily peated liquid. Now the brand is focusing on single malt production, without the need for peat.

The Glenturret Managing Director - Jennie Baernreuther (2)
Managing director Jennie Baernreuther

Jennie Baernreuther, managing director, said: “We have been collaborating closely with our global partners and whisky-making team to understand and truly define what a consumer should expect when savouring our range.

“The past few years of new ownership have allowed us the space to dedicate our time and resources into crafting something that celebrates both our incredibly rich heritage and the unique terroir of our Perthshire home.

“Refining both our production and style gives us confidence in the future, that alongside the unforgettable depth of craftsmanship in everything that we produce, our distinctive fruit notes and American oak Sherry influence will be instantly recognisable as a Glenturret single malt.”

Sustainability efforts

The decision to remove its peated expressions also forms part of The Glenturret’s sustainability plan, which has already achieved significant reductions in energy and water usage.

Ian Renwick, distillery director The Glenturret
Ian Renwick, distillery director

Ian Renwick, distillery director, said: “We honour the environment as deeply as we do our craft and that is the mantra for The Glenturret of the future.

“Our attention to detail is second to none and, as a small team, it’s incredible what we can achieve in our whisky making.

“Significant investment in our production facilities have reduced our annual energy consumption by 27%, our process waste by 1,000 tonnes per year, and saved 1,000,000 litres of water annually.

“As responsible distillers, we seek out not only the best materials but also the most considered practices when crafting our whiskies.”

During the transition, The Glenturret’s peated expressions, including its seven- and 10-year-old single malts, can be purchased from the distillery boutique, the brand’s online store and select retailers while stocks last.

Limited private casks are also available for purchase.

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