Scapa

The Scapa Distillery is a Scottish whisky distillery on the Orkney Islands, near the town of Kirkwall. Founded in 1885 , it is known for its maritime single malt whiskies with fruity and honey-like notes. Scapa is one of the few distilleries still using a Lomond still , which gives its whisky a special character . Its location on the windswept Scapa Flow influences the taste of the whisky, with salty and fresh aromas. Today, the distillery is part of the spirits group Pernod Ricard and is open to visitors .

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Scapa Distillery in a nutshell: history, products and special features

If you love whisky—or are just beginning to discover the world of this fascinating beverage—you've probably already heard of the Scapa Distillery. This traditional distillery, located on the wildly romantic Orkney Islands in the north of Scotland, has a lot to offer, making it a special gem in the whisky world. Apart from Scapa, there is only one other distillery on Orkney, the famousHighland ParkDistillery. Let's take a look at the history, current products, and small, unique features of the Scapa Distillery.

A short journey into the history of Scapa

The Scapa Distillery was founded in 1885, in the midst of the so-called "whisky boom" of the 19th century. Then, as now, it benefited from its unique location on the Orkney Islands. The nearby Scapa Flow, one of the world's largest natural harbors, not only inspired the distillery's name but also served as a key landmark during historic events, such as the First and Second World Wars.

Over the decades, Scapa has experienced numerous ups and downs. It survived a brief closure in the late 1990s and was revitalized by the acquisition of Pernod Ricard. Today, Scapa stands as a symbol of both traditional craftsmanship and a spirit of innovation, which is perfectly reflected in its new core product range.

What makes their story so special?

Compared to many other Scottish distilleries, Scapa is smaller, more intimate, and more authentic. Production takes place in small batches, allowing for a focus on quality over quantity. And did you know that Scapa is one of the few distilleries that still uses a traditional "Lomond Wash Still" for distillation? This special type of still gives Scapa whiskies their characteristic, slightly oily texture.

The current products from Scapa

Scapa's current products include Scapa Single Malt Whiskies aged 10 years, 16 years, and 21 years. These exceptional bottlings are now available in new, modern packaging that highlights the spirits' elegant design and high quality. Whether you prefer a milder or more intense whisky, Scapa has something to suit every taste.

What makes Scapa so special?

The location by the sea

The proximity to the sea strongly influences the character of Scapa whiskies. You might notice the hint of a salty sea breeze in every sip, and that's no coincidence! The Orkney Islands not only bring with them a unique climate, but also the fresh, clean water that goes into every drop of Scapa.

Tradition meets innovation

While Scapa prides itself on traditional whisky production, such as the use of the Lomond Wash Still, they are not afraid to try new things. Maturation in various cask types, such as Glansa, is a good example.

Small production quantities

The Scapa Distillery consciously prioritizes quality over quantity. Each cask is carefully matured and inspected to ensure the whisky you hold in your hands is a true masterpiece.

A touch of community

Although Scapa is internationally acclaimed, the distillery remains deeply rooted in the local community. The Orkney Islands have a vibrant whisky culture, and a visit to the distillery feels almost like a behind-the-scenes look at a closely guarded tradition.

Why should Scapa be on your whisky list?

If you're looking for a whisky that combines craftsmanship, history, and personality, Scapa is a perfect choice. Their whiskies are smooth enough for beginners yet complex enough for seasoned connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed neat, with a drop of water, or in a cocktail, Scapa always offers an authentic experience.

Bonus tip for your whisky journey

Visit the Scapa Distillery if you get the chance! A tour of their facility, coupled with a tasting, will give you deep insights into the art of whiskymaking.

Discover and enjoy Scapa

Scapa is more than just a distillery—it's a piece of living whisky history, rooted in the rugged maritime climate of the Orkney Islands. Whether you're just beginning to explore the world of whisky or are already a passionate collector, Scapa definitely deserves a place on your shelf.

So, why not try one of the Scapa whiskies mentioned? Grab a glass, pour yourself a sip, and immerse yourself in the unique world of this Orkney original. Here's to your whisky adventures!