What are wormtubs?

Wormtubs certainly stand out. Of Scotland’s 140-plus distilleries, only 20 still use this technique. They are not just curios; their rarity makes them a factor worth looking out for when considering a cask purchase.

In this traditional method of condensing alcohol vapours back into liquid, the lyne arm at the top of the still is connected to a long coiled copper pipe (worm), that sits in a huge vat of cold water (tub). (See diagram, top right). As the vapour travels down the worm, it condenses back into liquid form.

This method is known for producing a more robust and oily character of whisky – one that is sought after by certain whisky fans and that can potentially increase value of a cask.

Cask Trade has had a number of wormtub distillery casks on our stock list at various times, including Springbank, Benrinnes, Glen Elgin, Speyburn, Knockdhu, and Craigellachie. Below is a list of all the distilleries in Scotland that use wormtubs.

What Distilleries Use Wormtubs?

Ardnahoe

Ballindalloch

Balmenach

Benrinnes

Brora

Cragganmore

Craigellachie

Dalwhinnie

Edradour

Glen Elgin

Glenkinchie

Knockdhu

Mortlach

Oban

Old Pulteney

Rosebank

Royal Lochnagar

Speyburn

Springbank

Talisker

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