Did You Know? Many Distilleries in the 60s Used Worm Tubs

Wednesday, 10 September 2025 at 15:03

Recently we came across news of the launch of three new single malts from SMWS: the 'Tales of the Worm Tub' whiskies. Today, it's time for a bit of history. Did you know that many distilleries in the 60's were using so-called worm tubs?

What are worm tubs, and why did distilleries once use them so extensively?

A worm tub consists of a long, copper snake, named for its serpentine appearance, which is housed in a large wooden vat filled with cold water. The whisky vapours pass through this ‘snake’ and condense into liquid distillate.

The use of worm tubs slowed down the distillation process and resulted in less contact with copper, resulting in a heavier, fuller ‘meatier’ whisky with a substantial texture.

You can imagine how different this is from the lighter, fruitier style achieved with modern shell-and-tube condensers.

Why did worm tubs largely disappear in the 60’s?

From the 1960s onwards, most distilleries switched to shell-and-tube condensers. The reason for this is simple. They are more compact, easier to maintain, and more efficient, with better copper interaction providing more consistent results.

Worm tubs, on the other hand, demand a lot of space, water and attention. Add to that the complex repairs due to multiple bends and the difficulty of detecting leaks, and it's clear why the modern technique is simpler and cheaper.

Which distilleries still use them?

The use of worm tubs is rare nowadays. However, there are a few distilleries that stick to this classic technique. Sometimes it's a tradition being carried forward, but often it's the distinctive character of the whisky that's important.

These distilleries continue to embrace tradition.

Pulteney (Old Pulteney) has been using worm tubs with an original design since 1826. These give their whiskies extra body and flavour development like butterscotch and vanilla. The company is proud of this tradition.
Talisker on Skye retains their worm-tub condensers as part of their distillation process; they limit copper contact and add weight and complexity.
Springbank in Campbeltown distills with worm tubs for a richer, oilier spirit.
Recent examples: Ardnahoe in Islay (established in 2019) built with worm tubs, as a nod to the past.
Additionally, traditional worm tubs are still in use at distilleries such as Cragganmore (partially), Balmenach, Benrinnes, Craigellachie, Rosebank (rebuilt with replica tubs), Ardnahoe, Ballindalloch, Brora, Benrinnes, Glen Elgin, Mortlach and more.

Even Dalwhinnie, who switched to shell-and-tube in 1986, returned to worm tubs in 1995 due to a noticeable change in taste.

As you can see, drinking whisky is simple, but making whisky is more challenging and involves many elements!