Having embarked on personal explorations of Scotland myself, these journeys were a tapestry of rugged landscapes, deep history and culture, and the rich flavors of its famed whisky distilleries.
And one thing that Scots are truly proud of is their Whisky. Scottish Whisky distilleries produce some of the best quality whisky in the world, and the best way to taste it is to visit it at its source. If you are looking for something fun to do on your trip to Scotland then you are in the right place!
Here we will discuss some of the most amazing whisky distilleries in Scotland. Some are located in welcoming cities while others may take some exploring. It is an excellent way to learn about Scottish culture and to have some fun.
Let’s get started!
1. Highland Park Distillery
Highland Park Distillery is located well into the north in the islands of Orkney. Depending on which experience you are looking for Highland Park has various tours on offer.
One tour, The Magnus Eunson, will allow you to taste seven different whiskies. Or you can take a more specialist tour which will allow you to put in a day's work at the legendary distillery.
Since 1978, Highland Park has produced high-quality whisky which is now distributed around the world and has won the Best Spirit in the World award 3 times.
If you happen to be spending the day in the town of Kirkwall, you can easily explore the ancient buildings that can be seen throughout the town and grab some lunch at the local pub.
2. Isle of Harris Distillery
The Isle of Harris Distillery is widely known for its incredible production of gin. However, they are now branching out and creating incredible whisky.
Having only been opened since 2015, this distillery is extremely young compared to others around the country.
But it is by no means less important. Located in the small town of Tarbet, this distillery creates a single malt whisky named The Hearach. Created with sugar kelp, the whisky is given a sweet taste that reflects the welcoming nature of the island.
Tarbet is located in the Loch Lomond and Trussacs area and is the perfect place to stretch your legs after a long drive.
After the incredible tour of the distillery, you can visit the canteen that serves warming soup, cheese boards, and fresh seafood for you to enjoy.
3. Glenkinchie
Glenkinchie takes pride in being one of Johnnie Walker's Four Corners of Scotland distilleries. They produce the Edinburgh Malt, which is a key ingredient in Johnnie Walker whiskies and is loved by consumers worldwide.
Only a 35-minute drive from the Scottish capital, this is the perfect day trip to explore another area of the land during your visit.
The tourist center features a fantastic model of the distillery and offers a variety of tours. You don't have to bother about picking a driver when a convenient shuttle bus from Edinburgh is available.
After you complete your tour, take the time to relax at the bar with a cocktail, dram, coffee, and a selection of food.
4. Laphroaig Distillery
The Laphroaig brand, which is one year older than Lagavulin, is the most well-known and routinely has the highest global sales of all the Islay whiskies. By definition, the name refers to "the beautiful hollow by the broad bay."
The Laphroaig Distillery is open 7 days a week throughout the summer months and into fall before reducing to 5 days in the winter months.
Select from a range of tours including a tasting tour and a four-and-a-half-hour ‘water to whisky ‘ experience where you follow the entire whisky-making process.
You can fully submerge yourself into the whisky-making process and even take away a miniature if you drive.
There is also the option to join the Nips and Nibbles tour which allows you to learn what flavors pair best with the Laphroaig whisky.
5. Isle of Arran Distillery
The Isle of Arran is an island located in northern Scotland. Known for its incredible scenery and of course, its whisky. The whisky distillery is rather young but it is already winning awards for its incredible visitor experience.
What makes this whisky so special? This whisky starts life as rainwater at Lock Na Davie which is located high in the hills above the distillery. Six waterfalls along the Easan Biorach burn (a burn is a large stream or small river) purify the water as it flows through it while cascading down the mountain.
The whisky produced in this distillery is all-natural. With no added caramel or strips of flavor, it is pure and crisp. Excellent for any occasion.
6. The Glenlivet Distillery
This Speyside distillery, which is also a multi-award-winning tourist attraction, is located in a lonely Cairngorm ravine rich with an intriguing history. A favorite of Charles Dickens, the Glenlivet distillery sells around half of its single malt to the United States.
With 5 different tour experiences, you can explore the secrets of Glenlivet whisky. Beginning with the Original Tour, you can learn how the whisky is made, and gain access to the Speyside Room and the Process Room.
This also includes a tasting of 2 whiskies and is the perfect gift for any whisky enthusiast.
Now, if you don't have time to explore the full tour, you are more than welcome to stop for a drink in their bar or enjoy a tasty cocktail in the Drawing Room Bar.
Since 1822, Glenlivet Distillery has been producing some of the best whisky in the world.
If you enjoy whisky, then a distillery tour is an absolute must. Whether you are staying in Edinburgh, Scotland's wonderful capital, or looking to venture further north, there is a distillery for you to explore.
Learn how each whisky is made for that taste you love so much. Each distillery has something different to offer ranging from a simple tour of the warehouse to tasting a range of whiskies to find your favorites.
Whether you are in Scotland for a week or a month, make sure to add one of the magical distilleries above to your sightseeing list. There is truly nothing more incredible than watching how your favorite drink is made from the beginning!
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