The Knockdhu Distillery is situated in the picturesque village of Knock in Aberdeenshire. The story of the Knockdhu distillery starts with a man of vision (who also had an eye for a good investment). In 1892 an enterprising chap named, John Morrison, bought the Knock estate. The surrounding land was full of peat and barley and the Great North Railway line ran nearby. So when springs of pure, clear water were found, John saw a golden opportunity.
Samples of the water were sent for analysis and soon negotiations were under way with The Distillers Company of Edinburgh to build a distillery.
Knockdhu opened its doors in October 1894. Back then it was regarded as the perfect embodiment of a modern distillery. So it’s perhaps no surprise that we still produce a light, intriguing and thoroughly modern whisky to this day.
Highland single malt Scotch whisky anCnoc is a rather curious whisky pronounced [a-nock].
How anCnoc Is Created
The methods used to make anCnoc have hardly changed in over 100 years. We still use our original style copper pot stills and worms to condense the vaporized alcohol (which is very rare these days). Ironically, it’s these traditional techniques which help to create the distinctive, modern flavor.
The whisky is aged in American and Spanish oak barrels, previously used to mature either bourbon or sherry. The casks are rested quietly in dunnage warehouses. Here, the thick granite walls make for a stable temperature, which helps to give us a nice consistent dram.
You see, this fine single malt is created using traditional production methods. It’s just that we use them to make a refreshingly modern whisky (something that’s reflected in our contemporary bottle design and packaging today).
The end result is a lighter-tasting single malt that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Current Range
Our current range of whiskies is a demonstration of modern and tradition in all its complexity. All that remains now is to discover our range of single malt Scotch whisky. 12, 18, 24 35 year olds, 2002 & Peatheart.
Peter Arkle
In 2012 anCnoc teamed up with Scots born illustrator Peter Arkle to launch a series of Limited Edition whiskies. Now living in New York Peter refers to anCnoc as ‘remarkable liquid’ and enjoys its ‘magic’ so it seemed fitting that he should work on producing the packaging for our Collection.
Not only was each tube and label design inspired by Peter’s visit to our Knockdhu Distillery and depicts a unique aspect of our process, the liquid inside each bottle was equally as special.
Ingredients: Ingredients is a rich fruity explosion on the palate
Casks: Casks is full-bodied and fruity with just a hint of coconut
Bricks: Bricks is spicy with notes of citrus, sherry and dark chocolate
Warehouse: Warehouse has hints of cut flowers and lemon meringue
Vintage
When they’re gone, they’re gone. Perhaps you were lucky enough to taste one of our previous expressions, or if you’re really lucky, you might still have one tucked away, quietly waiting for an occasion special enough.
Distilled 1975, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Age Statement
Since 1894 the Knockdhu distillery has been producing our light and fresh Highland single malt. From the 16 Years Old bursting with citrus fruit to our much-loved 22 Years Old, have a look back at the wonderful whiskies that have made anCnoc the award-winning brand we know and love today.
16 year, 22 year, 35 year
Patrick Grant
anCnoc teamed up with Scottish-born fashion designer, Patrick Grant, to design a limited edition expression.
Created to embody everything anCnoc represents; its Highland home, rich heritage and the spirit of A Modern Tradition. What’s more he also had a little help from anCnoc’s fans who took to social media to submit images and messages to inspire his final design.