Address: Penderyn Distillery, Penderyn Wales, CF44 0SX. On A4059, Brecon National Park.

Telephone number: 01685 810651

Website: www.penderyn-distillery.co.uk

Date of visit: 13 August 2010

Opening hours: 9.00-17.00

Summary:

Penderyn is the only whisky distillery in Wales.

As you drive up the A4059 towards Brecon, you will see a large black building with ample parking.

The distillery has a visitor centre (shop). Tours are by arrangement and it cost £3. You get to sample the products if you go on the tour. Otherwise, you will have to ask for a taster.

I didn’t go on the tour as all distillery, brewery and winery are similar to other distillery, brewery and winery. One you have seen one, you have seen them all. The most impressive brewery that I have ever seen is the Henry Funk brewery in Luxemberg. You also get unlimited free beer there.

The distiller has been around for nearly 20 years and they offer gin, vodka and whisky.

I tried 3 malts: matured in Madeira wood, Sherry wood and a peaty one. The peaty one tasted like a Lagavulin that has been diluted down with Highland Park. I wasn’t sure about it. The sherry wood one was very similar to Glenmorangie. Now the Madeira wood one was superb. It was rich and sweet without being sugary. I bought 2. All malts are priced at £31.50 for a 750 ml bottle.

They also sell a grain whisky which I did not taste. Within the shops are various bric-a-brac – glasses, welsh teabags, chocolates etc.

They also have a special malt matured in Madeira wood  that they sell for over £100. Apparently, their first malts were matured in Madeira wood.

If you are interested, you can buy through the web site.

E

August 2010