Glen Elgin is one of Diageo's cross over distilleries: an important component in blends, it is also promoted to a certain degree as a single malt and has enjoyed modest success in that category. This is not surprising, as Glen Elgin's easy-drinking yet aromatic profile is one that attracts many whisky drinkers.

Glen Elgin was modernised slowly by comparison so other distilleries. It began in 1964 with the introduction of four new stills bringing the total to six. They were all fitted with new condensers but they would remain direct-fired until 1970 when they were all eventually converted to steam. At some point, after the rebuilding, a seventh still was added making a total of four wash and three spirit stills.

This is an unusual setup, especially considering that even with seven stills the capacity is only 1.8 million litres. This is largely due to the fact that the stills are very small, which also accounts for the distinctive sinewy maltiness that abounds in the spirit.