Whisky production begins at Penderyn's distillery in North Wales
Penderyn Introduces First Peated Single Malt Whisky in Over a Century
Penderyn Distillery, a Welsh whisky producer, has made a significant stride in the industry with the launch of its new product, Serpent's Tears. This peated single malt whisky, produced at Penderyn's Llandudno site, marks a milestone for Welsh whisky, being the first peated whisky to be made in Wales since Frongoch Distillery closed over 100 years ago [1][2][3].
The launch took place on 19 July 2025 at the North Wales site, a facility Penderyn opened in 2021, adding to its first site in the Brecon Beacons established in 2000 and a third site in Swansea founded in 2023 [1][3].
Serpent's Tears is a 46% ABV single malt with a smoky, fruity profile inspired by the Great Orme headland near the distillery. It offers an array of aromas, including fresh lemon, apple, white pear, peaty smoke, and clove. On the palate, it delivers smoked almond, tarte tatin, raisin, and star anise, with a long, balanced finish that elegantly combines sweetness and smoke [1][3]. The whisky comes in 70cl bottles, retailing around £80 [3].
Stephen Davies, CEO of Penderyn, expressed his pride in the release, stating that it is a proud moment for the team and for Welsh whisky as a whole [1][2]. He also highlighted that the launch of Serpent's Tears is a testament to Penderyn's pioneering spirit, which has been central to the resurgence of Welsh whisky over the past 25 years [1][3].
The name of the whisky, Serpent's Tears, is inspired by the Great Orme headland, which is named after the Old Norse meaning 'Great Serpent'. This headland stands as a symbol of longevity, having withstood dinosaurs and the Ice Age, causing fear among sea-farers [1][3].
Serpent's Tears is available across all Penderyn distilleries and specialist retailers, with plans for it to enter UK supermarkets from October 2025 [3]. This release creates a distinct identity for the Llandudno site, separate from Penderyn’s other ranges, celebrating Welsh whisky’s heritage and innovation [3].
[1] Penderyn Distillery Press Release - Serpent's Tears Launch [2] The Independent - Penderyn Launches First Peated Whisky in Wales in Over a Century [3] Whisky Advocate - Tasting Notes: Penderyn's Serpent's Tears
In the evolution of Welsh distilleries, Penderyn Distillery's launch of Serpent's Tears, a peated single malt whisky, signifies a shift towards a unique home-and-garden lifestyle product, complementing their existing range and highlighting the Llandudno site's distinct identity. The introduction of this whisky, inspired by the Great Orme headland, not only boosts Penderyn's pioneering spirit but also reaffirms the growing prestige of the home-and-garden sector within the whisky industry.
