When whisky enthusiasts talk about Highland single malts, names like Glenmorangie and Dalmore often dominate the conversation. But for those in the know, there’s a distillery that has been quietly crafting some of the most elegant, characterful whiskies in Scotland for over 200 years: Glencadam.

Founded in 1825 in the ancient city of Brechin, Glencadam Distillery has lived through wars, prohibition, mothballing, and ownership changes, yet somehow remains a true Highland rebel,  a distillery committed to producing whisky in a traditional, hands-on way. At Robert Graham 1874, we believe Glencadam deserves to step out from the shadows and claim its rightful place in your glass. Whether you’re browsing online for the best Highland whiskies UK or dropping by our shops in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Cambridge, Glencadam is a name you need on your radar.

The History of Glencadam

Glencadam was founded in 1825,  the same year Britain’s oldest surviving railway opened, and has been producing whisky in the town of Brechin ever since. While other distilleries chased modernisation and expansion, Glencadam remained small, stubbornly traditional, and fiercely independent in character.

Its stills are tall and slim, producing a spirit that is uniquely delicate and fruity. But despite its long history, Glencadam has often flown under the radar, supplying much of its whisky for blends rather than championing its own single malts. That all changed when Angus Dundee Distillers acquired the site in 2003 and began releasing a consistent range of single malt Glencadam whiskies, each highlighting the distillery’s elegant Highland DNA.

What Makes Glencadam Stand Out?

• Unchanged Methods: Glencadam still uses traditional worm tub condensers and wooden washbacks, ensuring a character that’s authentic and old-school.
• Elegant Spirit: Thanks to its tall stills, Glencadam produces a high, fruity, floral new-make spirit with a soft mouthfeel.
• Natural Presentation: Their whiskies are bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered, and naturally coloured, a mark of quality for purists.

This combination of history, tradition, and authenticity makes Glencadam a whisky for those who like to go against the grain and seek out something different.

Hero Bottlings from Glencadam

At Robert Graham 1874, we’ve selected some of the standout expressions from Glencadam that showcase the distillery’s signature elegance and complexity. Here are our top 3 Glencadam whiskies available at robertgraham1874.com:

1. Glencadam 15 Year Old

The 15 Year Old ramps up the complexity. Matured in ex-bourbon casks, it delivers layers of honey, tropical fruit, and toasted almonds with a silky smoothness that’s unmistakably Highland.

• Nose: Honey, pineapple, almonds, grassy notes
• Palate: Tropical fruit, honeycomb, light oak spice
• Finish: Long, elegant, and slightly dry

2. Glencadam 18 Year old 

Meet the whisky they call "The Rather Polished" Glencadam 18 Year Old. This Highland single malt is bottled at 46% ABV, natural colour and non-chill filtered, capturing purity with no shortcuts.

• Nose: pear blossom, dried pineapple, peach, panna cotta and faint baking spice.
• Palate: rice pudding, lemon curd, soft baked peach, creme caramel, warmed by nutmeg and cinnamon. 
• Finish: Lingering notes of poached pear, ginger biscuits, apricot Danish, and a gentle, sweet spice fade.

3. Glencadam Reserva de Jerez 15 Year Old Olorosso Cask

For those seeking something truly distinctive, the Reserva de Jerez 15 Year Old showcases Glencadam’s delicate spirit enriched by finishing in Oloroso sherry casks from Jerez, Spain. This combination brings depth, richness, and a luscious layer of fruit and spice.

• Nose: Dried fruit, raisins, figs, gentle oak
• Palate: Sherry sweetness, dark chocolate, nutmeg, and orchard fruit
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering sherry notes

This expression balances Glencadam’s signature elegance with the richness of Oloroso cask influence, making it a standout for sherried whisky fans.

The Future of Glencadam

Glencadam continues to impress whisky lovers worldwide with new releases and limited editions. Recent years have seen the launch of special wood finishes and higher-aged expressions, all bottled with the same commitment to quality. The distillery has no interest in chasing trends, instead, it doubles down on what it does best: elegant, balanced Highland single malts that speak for themselves.

For those looking to explore something outside of the mainstream, Glencadam offers a fresh, authentic experience.

Why Buy Glencadam from Robert Graham 1874?

When you purchase Glencadam through us, you’re not just buying whisky, you’re buying confidence. Our team has the expertise to guide you through the range, suggest pairings, and help you discover the nuances that make Glencadam so special.

• Available at our shops in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Cambridge
• Shipped across the UK from robertgraham1874.com
• Backed by expert advice from passionate whisky specialists

Glencadam is a whisky for rebels, those who don’t just follow the crowd but seek something unique, elegant, and steeped in history. Whether you’re discovering the crisp vibrancy of the 10 Year Old, the refined depth of the 15, or the luxurious richness of the 21, Glencadam delivers Highland character with sophistication.

Available now at Robert Graham 1874 online and in our Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Cambridge stores.