Cardhu (Cardow)

Producer: United
Region: Highlands
District: Speyside - Multimap view 
OS Sheet 28 ; Map reference NJ 187 431 ; Latitude 57 28.5° N, Longitude 3 21° W
Founded 1824 ; Operating Status (1999): operating

Cardhu has in the past been variously known as Cardow and Cardoor from the gaelic 'black rock'. The spellings all refer to the same hamlet, in the heart of Speyside, on the stretch of the river known as Knockando. The same stretch houses the unrelated Knockando and Tamdhu distilleries. It is also a favoured spot for salmon fishermen. The Cardhu distillery traces its history to its establishment in 1824 by the local farmer John Cumming, and on the present site to 1884. There was illicit distilling on the site prior to 1824 and it is said that John Cumming relied on the aromas of Helen Cumming's home baking to conceal the presence of the still from the excisemen.

It was extended in 1887 and 1897 and rebuilt in 1961. The company joined with Johnnie Walker in 1893. Water comes from the Mannoch Hill through two miles of pipe.

© Michael Jackson 1994, o.m., ms

Knockando, Aberlour, Banffshire, AB38 7RY
Tel: 01340-6204 (visitor center) or 01340-810204 and 01340-810439

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Cardhu Single Malt Scotch Founded in 1824, Cardhu was built on a site where illicit distilling had been in progress since about 1813. It is an easy, light whisky that provides a comfortable introduction to single malts. The water supply is piped from a site close to the location from where it gets its peat. The distillery is located in the town of Knockando, which has a distillery by the same name. Cardhus winsome personality and "good taste" will make things right in short order after the proper introduction.  12 year old Proof 80  Color : Pale, light amber.  Nose : Medium-bodied, with a hint of sweetness and peat. Excellent bouquet - maybe perfumy?  Body : Light and smooth. Palate : Smooth, light to medium, mellow flavor. Some sweetness and peat.  Finish : Long, lingering and sweet. Some peat comes through.

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