International Timber supports Joseph Brown Vats whiskey business
While it is widely acknowledged that timber is one of the oldest building materials known to man, relatively few will associate it with the production of whisky. However, its use has traditionally played an essential part in the manufacture of the vats which are commonly used for the distillation of Scotland’s national drink.
International Timber, part of Saint-Gobain Building Distribution’s Timber Group, first started supplying Joseph Brown Vats of Dufftown over 20 years ago and its timber is still used today by the company, which specialises in the build, supply and installation of purpose-built wooden vats and tanks.
Set in the heart of Speyside, Scotland’s premier distilling region that reaches from the rolling Cairngorm mountains to the mighty Spey river valley, Joseph Brown Vats was established in 1921, providing general cooperage services to the distilling, chemical, test and tank industries, and has used timber throughout its 89 year history.
Although some machinery is today incorporated to speed up the production process, the site still uses traditional manufacturing methods to produce the vats, which range in size from 2ft to 20ft. It supplies the specialist containers to distillers including Chivas Brothers, a market leading producer of Scotch whisky including The Glenlivet world famous single malt, first established in 1824 and now the world’s No 2 single malt brand and the leader in the USA.
Ron Low of Joseph Brown Vats, Duffstown, comments: “Douglas fir and Oregon pine has been used for decades to create vats in our historic workshop. Chivas was keen to continue using wooden washbacks so we were pleased to assist the company in continuing this tradition.”
“International Timber has been our supplier of choice for the past 20 years. The staff understand our requirements, consistently ensuring the timber is delivered on time to the exacting quality we require. ”
Steve Rogers, product director at International Timber, adds: “While the use of timber is more commonly associated with construction or joinery applications, its use in more niche markets such as this clearly demonstrates its versatility and flexibility.”
International Timber is a leading supplier of timber solutions, providing a superior range of products in hardwoods, softwoods, clear softwoods and treated products, as well as standard and bespoke machined profiles.
