In 1821, William Smith founded the Wolfburn distillery on the outskirts of Thurso, named after a nearby watercourse. The distillery, built from sturdy Caithness stone slabs, quickly developed into a major malt whisky producer. The distillery remained in family ownership until the 1850s and may have operated sporadically until the 1860s, although it was recorded as a ruin on a map in 1872. A new building was erected near the old site.

The distillery's logo, designed in 2011, is based on a 16th century drawing by Conrad Gessner and refers to the sea wolf, a local legend said to bring good luck. The logo symbolises the distillery's deep connection to Scottish culture and history.

Every year on Father's Day, the distillery presents a special Father's Day Edition. This whisky is matured for seven years in a combination of sherry and bourbon casks, giving it a rich and nuanced flavour.

The edition is limited to 1,840 bottles, making it a collector's item.