Glenmorangie: A Story of Innovation and Legacy

In 1843, William Matheson purchased a brewery in the town of Tain, Scotland, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most revered whisky brands in the world. Initially, the distillery operated using repurposed gin stills, which contributed to the light and delicate nature of the spirit—a characteristic that endures to this day.The brand saw a significant transformation under the leadership of Gordon Smart, who served as distillery manager for a remarkable 50 years (1920–1970). Gordon Smart, the son of a previous distillery manager, carried on his family’s legacy with dedication and expertise. As he jokingly put it, "Nepotism and consistency always make for great whisky." His stewardship helped solidify Glenmorangie’s reputation for excellence.Despite experiencing challenges during the 1930s, including temporary closures, the distillery made a pivotal decision in 1959 to refocus its efforts on producing single malt whisky. This move marked a turning point, and by the mid-20th century, Glenmorangie was making steady progress. Eventually, it achieved the distinction of becoming Scotland’s best-selling single malt whisky by the 1990s.In 1995, Dr. Bill Lumsden joined Glenmorangie and initiated the Wood Finish Programme, a revolutionary approach to whisky maturation. This innovation introduced a variety of cask finishes that added depth and complexity to the whisky, further cementing Glenmorangie’s reputation as a pioneer in the industry.Today, Glenmorangie’s 12 towering stills, some of the tallest in Scotland, produce a light, ethereal spirit that has become a hallmark of the brand. Combined with its ever-innovative approach, Glenmorangie remains a favorite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.