Rosebank, once known as the "King of the Lowlands," is a legendary distillery whose history, closure, and spectacular resurrection have left their mark on the Scottish whisky industry. Founded in 1840 in Falkirk, on the banks of the Forth & Clyde Canal, Rosebank built a reputation for excellence thanks to its fruity, floral, and unparalleled smoothness, produced using unique traditional methods. After thirty years of silence, the distillery was brought back to life in 2023 by Ian Macleod Distillers, who restored its historic buildings and restarted production using the recipes of yesteryear. Today, Rosebank embodies both heritage and innovation, offering whisky lovers a unique experience that blends tradition and modernity.
The Rosebank adventure began in 1840, when James Rankine, a local wine and tea merchant, founded the distillery in Camelon, near Falkirk. From the outset, Rosebank stood out for the quality of its whiskies, produced using traditional methods and triple distillation, a rarity in the Lowlands. For over a century, the distillery prospered, becoming a pillar of the region and a key supplier for Scotch blends.
However, the economic challenges of the 1980s and 1990s, combined with strict environmental standards, led to its closure in 1993. For nearly three decades, Rosebank remained silent, its stills and buildings falling into disrepair. But in 2017, Ian Macleod Distillers, already owners of the Glengoyne and Tamdhu distilleries, bought the site and announced an ambitious project: to bring Rosebank back to life, preserving its heritage while modernizing its facilities.
After four years of meticulous restoration, production restarted in 2023. The historic buildings, including the iconic chimney and red brick warehouses, have been preserved and integrated into a new, ultra-modern distillery. Rosebank officially reopened its doors to the public in June 2024, marking the... See more ...
The Rosebank adventure began in 1840, when James Rankine, a local wine and tea merchant, founded the distillery in Camelon, near Falkirk. From the outset, Rosebank stood out for the quality of its whiskies, produced using traditional methods and triple distillation, a rarity in the Lowlands. For over a century, the distillery prospered, becoming a pillar of the region and a key supplier for Scotch blends.
However, the economic challenges of the 1980s and 1990s, combined with strict environmental standards, led to its closure in 1993. For nearly three decades, Rosebank remained silent, its stills and buildings falling into disrepair. But in 2017, Ian Macleod Distillers, already owners of the Glengoyne and Tamdhu distilleries, bought the site and announced an ambitious project: to bring Rosebank back to life, preserving its heritage while modernizing its facilities.
After four years of meticulous restoration, production restarted in 2023. The historic buildings, including the iconic chimney and red brick warehouses, have been preserved and integrated into a new, ultra-modern distillery. Rosebank officially reopened its doors to the public in June 2024, marking the triumphant return of the "King of the Lowlands."
Unique expertise: triple distillation and worm tubs
Rosebank owes its reputation to unique production methods, which give its whiskies their fruity, floral character and exceptional smoothness.
Triple distillation, a rarity in the Lowlands
Unlike most Scottish distilleries, which practice double distillation, Rosebank uses triple distillation, a process that produces a purer, smoother, and more complex spirit. This method, combined with the use of worm tubs (copper cooling coils), gives Rosebank whiskies delicate aromas of fresh fruit, flowers, and honey, with a silky texture and a long, elegant finish.
Historic stills and local water
Rosebank's three copper stills, identical to those used before its closure, have been recreated to faithfully reproduce the distillery's unique style. The locally sourced water also contributes to the finesse and clarity of the spirits, enhancing their distinctive aromatic profile.
Aging in quality casks
Rosebank uses premium oak casks, mainly bourbon and sherry casks, to age its whiskies. This careful selection enhances the natural aromas of the distillate, while adding notes of vanilla, caramel, and sweet spices.
A commitment to authenticity and innovation
The restoration of Rosebank was carried out with respect for its heritage, with particular attention paid to preserving the site's historical features. The new buildings blend harmoniously with the existing Victorian architecture, creating a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. This commitment was rewarded with the title of "Best Regeneration Project" at the Herald Property Awards 2024 and a nomination for the RIAS Best Building in Scotland Award.
Upon its reopening, Rosebank was praised by critics and enthusiasts alike. The distillery was awarded five stars by VisitScotland in its first week of opening, and its first bottles, such as Rosebank 30 Year Old and Rosebank 31 Year Old, were hailed as masterpieces of Lowland whisky.
Rosebank now offers immersive tours, allowing visitors to discover its history, unique production methods, and legendary whiskies. With a production capacity of one million liters per year and an expected annual visitor capacity of 50,000, the distillery has become a must-see destination for whisky lovers from around the world.
Why is Rosebank unique?
Rosebank embodies the resilience and excellence of Scotch whisky. Its return is much more than a simple relaunch: it is the rebirth of a heritage, a celebration of unique expertise, and a promise of quality for future generations. Between tradition and innovation, Rosebank continues to reign supreme in the Lowlands, offering whiskies of rare smoothness and complexity that captivate even the most discerning palates.
