In the heart of Falkirk, a new craft distillery, Blackness Bay Distillery, has overcome initial rejection by the Trade Marks Registry to proudly bear the name 'Mary Queen of Scotch' for its upcoming malt production. The trademark office initially raised concerns about the authenticity of the Scotch whisky and its connection to the renowned queen, but a compelling defense by the distillery's owner, Colm O'Rourke, paved the way for approval.
Colm O'Rourke passionately advocated that 'Mary Queen of Scotch' would honor the legacy of Mary Queen of Scots while assuring the trademark office of the distillery's commitment to producing genuine Scotch Whisky. Located just a stone's throw away from Linlithgow Palace, the historic birthplace of the ill-fated monarch, the village of Blackness provided a fitting backdrop for this artisanal endeavor.
With full licensing and certification from HMCR, Blackness Bay Distillery, under the guidance of Colm O'Rourke and his wife Sheena, embarked on an 18-month journey to master the art of distilling. Their meticulous process involves traditional twin copper pot stills to craft a single malt whisky that embodies the essence of Scottish craftsmanship and heritage.
The maturation period of three years and a day is a testament to the dedication and patience required in whisky production, signifying that 'Mary Queen of Scotch' will only grace the shelves after another two years of aging. Falkirk Council's recent approval for tasting tours at the distillery sets the stage for an immersive experience that aims to captivate the 50,000 annual visitors drawn to the iconic Blackness Castle, known for its role as Fort William in the popular TV series 'Outlander.'
Colm O'Rourke's rationale behind the choice of name reflects a deep-rooted belief in the significance and appeal of 'Mary Queen of Scotch' to tourists and whisky enthusiasts alike. Despite the evolving usage of the term 'Scotch' to describe Scottish people, historical references and cultural contexts validate the appropriateness of the name in celebrating Scotland's rich whisky-making heritage.
As the distillery's journey unfolds, it symbolizes a blend of tradition and innovation, echoing the spirit of Mary Queen of Scots in its pursuit of excellence and authenticity. 'Mary Queen of Scotch' emerges as a beacon of Scottish craftsmanship, poised to carve its place in the vibrant landscape of Scotch whisky production, honoring the past while embracing the future with each carefully distilled drop.
