ROSEBANK WELCOMES NEW DISTILLERY MANAGER AS MALCOLM RENNIE MOVES TO LAGGAN BAY

Rosebank Distillery has announced a change in leadership, with Bladnoch’s Neil Bulloch stepping into the role of distillery manager, succeeding Malcolm Rennie.

Rennie, who had held the position since February 2022, played a key role in reviving Rosebank after its 30-year closure. Under his leadership, the Lowland distillery reopened to the public last summer, marking a significant milestone in its history. He oversaw all aspects of production, from new make spirit to cask selection and maturation.

Before his tenure at Rosebank, Rennie spent four years as distillery manager at Lochlea in Ayrshire.

Bulloch, formerly head of distilling at Bladnoch, brings a deep-rooted connection to the region. Born and raised in Menstrie, just 15 miles from Rosebank, he is familiar with the Lowland whisky heritage.

Looking ahead, Bulloch expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating:

“I can’t wait to see how the new spirit matures and to be involved in the future releases of Rosebank whisky when the time is right. I couldn’t be prouder to be joining such a respected name in the whisky world. Returning to the area where I grew up makes this opportunity even more special.”

While stepping down from Rosebank, Rennie will remain with Ian Macleod Distillers, shifting his focus to Laggan Bay, a new distillery on Islay that is still under construction. He will take on the role of distillery manager, bringing his expertise to another major project.

In a statement on LinkedIn, Rosebank praised Rennie’s contributions:

“Malcolm has meticulously overseen the recommissioning of Rosebank Distillery. His expertise in setting up new and revived distilleries has been invaluable, and now he takes his skills to Laggan Bay Distillery on Islay.”

The company also welcomed Bulloch’s appointment, stating:

“Neil is very excited about taking on his new role at Rosebank Distillery, where production only restarted in June 2023 following 30 years of closure. It’s an exciting and important time in the distillery’s history, and he looks forward to making his mark.”

Rosebank was mothballed in 1993, but thanks to an £80 million refinancing package from Ian Macleod Distillers, the legendary Lowland distillery has been reborn, with many original features preserved alongside modern upgrades.

With Bulloch now leading operations, the next chapter in Rosebank’s whisky legacy is set to unfold.