Nc’nean distillery is perched on a picturesque rise about a mile outside of Drimnin, Oban, Scotland. Their name is inspired by the Gaelic goddess Neachneohain, who is known as the Queen of Spirits and a fierce protector of nature. Known for her independence, she walks a deliberate path through time and existence.
The grounds of the distillery are no stranger to such winding paths, as the one that leads to their front door is eminently passable but must be done with a degree of purpose and care. Those who complete the trek to visit are rewarded with a stunning view of the Sound of Mull and the shoreline that leads to Tobermory. Against the often-misty Scottish skies, there is a feast for the senses to take in from the distillery’s enviable location.
Nc’nean is on a mission to make whisky with purpose and intent. From the spark of an idea to the tangible results, there has been a purposeful path to become something different on the landscape of whisky. There’s an allure in the idea of existing in harmony with the environment and while this is a road not well traveled, this distillery is blazing a trail into history with their growing success.
In 2013, Annabel Thomas started her mission to raise funds and set out to bring her idea into reality. Her mission is reflected in every aspect of the operation, from the equipment, location, and people hired. After four years of building with purpose, they began distilling their own organic whisky in 2017. With the dawn of 2020, the first bottle of Nc’nean was brought into the world. As stated on their website, “An organic single malt Scotch whisky making a big impression with the smallest footprint.”
The dimensions of Nc’nean’s commitment to environmental harmony are impressive and expansive. Currently, they are B Corp certified and consume only renewable energy. Only organic Scottish barley is used, and the finished product is lovingly put into 100% recycled clear glass bottles. The operation acts with such care that 99.97% of their waste is diverted from landfill. Since 2021, they achieved the honor of becoming the first whisky distillery in the UK to be certified as net zero carbon (for scopes 1 and 2).
Neachneohain is smiling as she grants her favor to the distillery that bears tribute to her name and spirit. From the ground up, Nc’nean succeeds in challenging the status quo of whisky as we all know it.
Whiskey Network is proud to feature Nc’nean, as their mission is exciting, and their cause is worthy. If you’d like to learn a bit more about Annabel Thomas, you can read our Women in Whiskey feature here. We are working on an in-depth interview to be featured at a future date.
The distillery was kind enough to offer a sample of the product for this overview. This is presented as an independent evaluation considering the complimentary taster.
Nc’nean Single Malt Scotch Whisky
46% ABV (92 proof)
Made with Organic Scottish Barley
Color: Vibrant pale gold with delicate shimmering highlights of golden honey
Nose: Rich notes of malt with a distinct hint of apple rind that emerges immediately. With a second pass, there are pleasant tones of eucalyptus that take center stage, and a secondary wave of stone fruits emerge from the background. All of this is against a foundation of earthiness that serves as a constant guide on the journey.
Palate: The initial taste is like lying in a grassy field and eating a delicious ripe pear. A pleasant and sweet experience that comes full circle against a note of minerality. As the experience continues, there is the unmistakable presence of malt in the flavor profile. The liquid itself is medium-bodied and has a silky mouthfeel that is both pleasant and enticing.
Finish: Much like a sunset over the oft grey skies that enshroud the grounds of the distillery, the finish is a juxtaposition of sensory inputs. The warmth of the ABV is pleasant and like the sun sending its last light through the clouds. An unmistakable hint of spices comes forward like the pending darkness and is like a warm cloak to guard against the chill of the night.
Notes: This whisky is a pleasant feast for the senses that bears the hallmarks of a modern classic in the making. This dram elicits a hint of the waning days of summer and the portents of the coming winter. It is refreshing and flavorful, yet like a warm embrace that permeates the soul.
Nc’nean is poised to continue down their historic path in the world of whisky. Their mission to make whisky with a purpose is in full swing. The products are well worth the effort to seek out and enjoy. After all, the goddess herself is smiling on the entire operation.
