Ballantine's Distillery

Foundation and early years (1827):
George Ballantine, a 19-year-old Scotsman, founded a grocery store in Edinburgh in 1827. He started by selling whisky and other products, but soon specialized in blending whiskies, a skill that would make him famous.

Expansion (1850s - 1890s):
As his reputation as an expert blender grew, Ballantine expanded his business and began supplying the British royal family. His son, George Ballantine Jr., helped turn the company into an internationally recognized brand.

Consolidation as a brand (1895):
Queen Victoria awarded Ballantine's a Royal Warrant, a prestigious mark of distinction. At this stage, the company began to focus more on the production and marketing of quality blended whisky.

20th Century and Globalization:
Throughout the 20th century, Ballantine's underwent several ownership changes, but always maintained its identity as a premium Scotch whisky. In 1938, the large Miltonduff distillery was built, which is one of the main sources of malt for its blends. In 1986, Ballantine's was acquired by Allied Domecq, and in 2005 by Pernod Ricard, its current owner.

Present:
Ballantine's is today one of the world's best-selling Scotch whisky brands, renowned for its smooth and balanced style. It offers a range that includes the classic Ballantine's Finest, as well as 12, 17, 21 year old and older editions.