St. Magdalene, one of Scotland’s lost Lowland distilleries, is renowned for its elegant yet complex whisky, often showcasing a delicate balance of fruit, spice, and subtle waxiness. Closed in 1983, its remaining stock has become increasingly rare, making any opportunity to taste a well-aged expression a special occasion. Today, I’m reviewing a St. Magdalene 1980, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail—a dram that promises to offer a glimpse into the storied past of this historic distillery. Let’s see how it holds up after a decade and a half of maturation.
St. Magdalene / Linlithgow Distillery
St. Magdalene Distillery, located in the historic town of Linlithgow, Scotland, has a rich heritage dating back to its establishment in 1798. Originally known as “Linlithgow,” the distillery was built on a site that previously housed a leper colony and hospital, drawing its name from St Magdalene’s Hospital. Over the years, it became a significant player in the Lowland whisky scene, known for producing high-quality single malt Scotch whisky.
The distillery operated continuously until its closure in 1983, although it faced challenges throughout its history, including a period of silence during the 1920s. It was renowned for its logistical advantages, situated near the Union Canal and a railway line, which facilitated the transport of raw materials and finished products. St. Magdalene was particularly noted for its use of local ingredients, including barley sourced from nearby areas and water drawn from Loch Lomond.
Under the management of the Dawson family for much of its operational life, St. Magdalene became part of the Distillers Company Ltd (DCL) in 1912. Its production capabilities included multiple washbacks and pot stills, allowing it to produce over a million liters of whisky annually at its peak. Although the distillery is no longer operational, its legacy endures through the unique character of its whiskies and the preservation of its historic buildings, which have been converted into residential apartments while retaining their iconic pagoda roofs.
St. Magdalene 1980 Gordon & MacPhail Review
This St. Magdalene was distilled in 1980 and bottled in 1995 by Gordon & MacPhail as part of their Century Reserve range. It comes at 40% ABV, though details on cask type, chill filtration, or added colouring remain unknown. While still available at retail, prices start around £600 in the UK or €800 in Europe, with potentially lower deals on the secondary market.
Colour:
Straw.
Nose:
Neat: Fresh and vibrant, with notes of ripe pear, crisp apple, and grassy undertones. Hints of vanilla and butterscotch add sweetness, but there’s also a subtle mineral edge, minty freshness, and a wisp of fuel smoke.
Palate:
Neat: The mouthfeel is slightly thin, but the flavours come through well. Juicy yellow and white fruits mingle with warming spices, vanilla, and honey. A touch of citrusy sourness adds brightness, balanced by gentle oak influence.
Finish:
A zesty hint of lemon lingers alongside sesame oil and the faintest trace of smoke, with a medium-length fade.
Comments:
Impressive and still full of life despite the low 40% ABV. The mouthfeel is thin yet pleasantly oily, making for a rewarding experience. Tasting this St. Magdalene 1980 from Gordon & MacPhail was a fantastic way to explore another lost distillery through such a fine dram.