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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.