The Glen Esk distillery is located west of Montrose near the River North Esk. It was built in a former flax mill. After the 2nd World War it mainly produced Grain Whisky under the name Montrose. It was not until 1964 that SMD converted it back into a malt distillery and mainly produced VAT 69 for the Blend. It was closed in 1985, but the maltings are still used and produce malt for the surrounding distilleries.

The whisky is rather dry in style, light to medium heavy and sweet.