In 2025, Penderyn Distillery proudly celebrates 25 years of pioneering Welsh whisky excellence, a milestone marked by staggering achievements: over 140 international awards, exports to more than 50 countries, and a production capacity that now reaches up to 2.3 million bottles annually. Stephen Davies, CEO of Penderyn, says: “We set out to create something extraordinary—a whisky that could stand among the best in the world. Today, Penderyn is not just a brand; it’s a symbol of Welsh pride and innovation on the global stage.”
From Revival to Global Powerhouse
Welsh whisky had been silent since 1894, but Penderyn reignited this heritage, opening in 2000, and with its first single malt launch release on St. David’s Day 2004. “Bringing whisky back to Wales wasn’t just about making spirits; it was about restoring a lost tradition,” Davies says. The distillery’s unique Faraday stills, developed by Dr. David Faraday, produce a spirit at 92% ABV in a single distillation—unlike traditional Scotch or Irish whisky—resulting in a lighter, fruitier profile that has captivated whisky lovers worldwide.
Today, Penderyn operates three distilleries: the original Brecon Beacons site (2000), Llandudno (2021), and Swansea (2023). Combined, these facilities produce up to 2.3 million bottles annually—a 130% capacity increase in recent years. “Our growth is driven by demand from over 50 countries, including key markets like China, the USA, France, and Germany,” says Davies. “We’re proud to be the UK’s eighth best-selling single malt and one of the fastest-growing whisky brands.”
Award-Winning Craftsmanship
Penderyn’s commitment to quality has earned it over 140 international awards, including Double Gold at the New York World Spirits Competition and Gold at India’s Spiritz Achiever’s Awards. The distillery’s signature Gold range, especially the Madeira-finished single malt, has been repeatedly recognised at prestigious competitions such as the San Francisco World Spirits Awards.
Davies comments, “Each award validates our approach—combining innovation with tradition. Our Faraday stills give Penderyn a distinct flavour profile that whisky connoisseurs appreciate for its purity and complexity.”
Distinctive Taste and Ingredients
Penderyn’s single malt whisky begins with the finest barley and crystal-clear spring water from the Brecon Beacons, filtered naturally through basalt and limestone. The unique distillation process yields a spirit that is both clean and nuanced. “Our whiskies are known for their light, fruity character with notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, honey, and subtle spice,” Davies says. “We also experiment with finishes—from Madeira and sherry to peated barley expressions—showcasing the versatility of Welsh whisky.”
Innovation and Sustainability
Penderyn’s Faraday still technology is a game-changer, enabling efficient, energy-saving production that respects the environment. “Sustainability is at the heart of what we do,” says Davies. “We source water from our own spring and employ energy-saving technologies, ensuring our whisky is as responsible as it is exceptional.”
The Swansea Copperworks distillery, opened in 2023 with a £15 million investment, revitalised a historic industrial site, creating jobs and boosting tourism. “This project is about more than whisky; it’s about community and heritage,” Davies says. Penderyn produces 500,000 litres of pure alcohol annually across its sites.
Cultural Impact and Future Ambitions
Penderyn’s influence extends beyond whisky. The brand is a cultural ambassador for Wales, with initiatives like the ‘Icons of Wales’ series celebrating Welsh history and identity. “There’s no Welsh person prouder than those abroad who see Penderyn as a taste of home,” Davies says. “We’re expanding our presence in airports and key markets to bring Welsh whisky to the world.”
Looking ahead, Davies is optimistic: “Our recent multi-million-pound deal in China and expansion into India signal exciting growth. We’re committed to taking Welsh whisky to even greater heights. This is just the beginning.”
Penderyn Distillery’s 25-year journey from a bold revival to a global whisky icon is a testament to vision, craftsmanship, and Welsh spirit. With over 140 awards, exports spanning 50 countries, and a unique whisky style born of innovation and tradition, Penderyn stands tall as a beacon of premium single malt excellence—proudly Welsh and proudly world-class.