John O'Groats distillery

Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

No prizes for guessing where John O’Groats distillery stood. Distilling in Caithness was widespread for centuries, although nearly all distilleries eventually vanished and for decades the only survivor was Pulteney in Wick. However, it has now been joined by resurrected Wolfburn at Thurso and Dunnet Bay, a small distillery producing Rock Rose gin.

John O’Groats is in fact quite a scattered community with many houses, farms, crofts and agricultural buildings dotting the landscape just south of Duncansby Head. There’s also quite a network of burns and watercourses feeding in to the Burn of Duncansby. Pinpointing the location of John O’Groats distillery is therefore difficult.

Map
  • Region
    Highland
  • Production type
    Single malt
  • Distillery Status
    Demolished

John O'Groats History

John O’Groats distillery was run for the most part by members of the Sutherland family, a name that often crops up in connection with many northern distilleries.

It was first licensed in 1826 to J & G Sutherland, which continued operation through until 1834. Then in 1837, John & George Sutherland, possibly the same two distillers, re-opened John O’Groats, but it closed again before the year was out. 

Timeline

  • 1826 John O’Groats distillery is founded by J & G Sutherland
  • 1834 The distillery is closed
  • 1837 John O’Groats is re-opened by John & George Sutherland but closes again later that year

Contact

Address
John O'Groats
Ness of Duncansby
Caithness
United Kingdom
Map

See also

  • Great King Street Great King Street Great King Street Brand

    Great King Street

    Rebellious indie blended Scotch whisky.

  • Hedonism Hedonism Hedonism Brand

    Hedonism

    Compass Box’s flagship blended grain whisky broke the mould upon its introduction in 2000.

  • Benrinnes Benrinnes Benrinnes Distillery & brand

    Benrinnes

    A highly individual Speyside whisky.

  • Isle of Harris Distillers Isle of Harris Distillers Isle of Harris Distillers Distiller

    Isle of Harris Distillers

    The holding company created to build and operate Isle of Harris distillery.

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