1936 Vintage Whisky

The Rise of Craftsmanship in Whisky Production

The year 1936 was marked by significant global events such as the abdication of King Edward VIII in Britain and the Spanish Civil War's onset. Germany and Italy established the Rome-Berlin Axis, fortifying alliances that would lead to World War II. The Berlin Olympics took place, serving as a propaganda tool for Nazi Germany.

In 1936, the whisky industry was on the brink of a renaissance. Still feeling the reverberations of Prohibition's end in 1933, distillers were enthusiastic about refining their techniques and expanding their markets. This year witnessed an uptick in quality as distilleries shifted from merely surviving Prohibition to truly thriving. Innovations in the distillation process, such as the adoption of more efficient copper pot stills, were key milestones.

The rise of specialized whisky bars and the spread of cocktail culture also contributed to whisky's soaring popularity in the USA. In an era marked by the Great Depression, whisky served as an affordable luxury for many.

Scotch whisky, in particular, saw a significant rise in imports, especially in the United States. It was during this time that age statements began to appear more commonly on whisky bottles, as an indicator of quality and craftsmanship.

For today's whisky enthusiasts, bottles from 1936 are rare gems, often showcasing a style and complexity that mirror the industry’s dedication to refinement during this period. These vintage spirits provide a glimpse into a transformative time when whisky was rediscovering its identity and purpose.