Old Pulteney is “the maritime malt” — a Highland single malt made at one of Scotland’s most northerly mainland distilleries, in the far-north fishing town of Wick. Shaped by the sea in every sense, from its harbourside location to its briny, coastal character, it is one of the most distinctive whiskies of the north.
History of Old Pulteney
The distillery was founded in 1826 by James Henderson in Pulteneytown, the model fishing village designed by the great engineer Thomas Telford during Wick’s extraordinary herring boom. At the time Wick was one of the busiest herring ports in the world, and whisky and fishing were its twin trades — the distillery’s spirit was sold to the fishermen who crowded the harbour. Today Old Pulteney is owned by Inver House Distillers.
The distillery today
Old Pulteney is known for its unusually shaped stills, including a distinctive flat-topped wash still — according to distillery lore, the top was cut off so it would fit into the still house. These quirky stills, together with the coastal location, are said to contribute to the whisky’s individual character.
The whisky
Old Pulteney is famed for its coastal personality — a fresh sea-air quality and gentle brininess balanced by honey, apple and a clean, slightly salty finish. The range runs from the flagship 12 Year Old through the 15 and 18 Year Old to the peated Huddart and older maritime expressions, all reflecting the whisky’s north-coast roots.
Visiting Old Pulteney
The distillery sits in Wick in Caithness, a popular stop on the North Coast 500. Its visitor centre tells the story of the herring era and the “maritime malt”, and it makes an ideal break on a road trip round the far north. Wick is also served by the Far North railway line, so it is reachable without a car.
Getting there
Wick lies at the far north-east tip of the Scottish mainland, about 2.5 hours north of Inverness by the A9, and a natural stop on the NC500 in the northern Highlands.
Discover more in our overview of Scotch whisky regions and our guide to the best whisky distilleries to visit in Scotland.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Old Pulteney Distillery?
In Wick, Caithness, in the far north-east of the Scottish mainland, on the North Coast 500.
Why is Old Pulteney called the maritime malt?
Because of its harbourside home in a former herring port and its distinctive salty, sea-air character.
What does Old Pulteney taste like?
Fresh and coastal, with sea-air brininess balanced by honey, apple and a clean, slightly salty finish.
Can you visit Old Pulteney?
Yes — its Wick visitor centre offers tours and tastings and is a handy stop on the NC500.
