5 Whiskey Distillery Tours you NEED to do in Scotland
Scotland is very well known for its fantastic whiskey, or ‘whisky’ as we spell it, and it is often referred to as “uisge beatha,” which translates to “water of life.” With a rich history, Scottish whiskey is categorised into several distinct regions across the country, and each one offers it’s own unique flavors and characteristics.
The 5 whiskey-producing regions in Scotland are Speyside, Islay, the Highlands, the Lowlands, and Campbeltown. Each region has its own special styles and many distilleries that are well worth exploring. For whiskey enthusiasts and travellers, going on a distillery tour provides an unforgettable experience.
Here are our top 5 of the best whiskey tours that you should try out when in Scotland!
Glengoyne Distillery
Region: Lowlands
Located north of Glasgow, Glengoyne Distillery is well loved for its traditional production methods and high quality products. Visitors can enjoy guided tours around the distillery that takes them through the picturesque grounds, where they can witness the entire whiskey-making process from the malting to the maturation.
The highlight (unsurprisingly) is undoubtedly the tasting session featuring their award-winning single malts, including their 10-year-old and 21-year-old whiskey. The serene surroundings of the countryside make it an ideal spot for those looking to appreciate both nature and fine whiskey. And its not far from the central belt - making it an easy spot to get to if you are staying in the cities!
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Glenfiddich Distillery
Region: Speyside
As one of the most famous names in the Scottish whiskey business, Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown offers a big range of different tours tailored to various different interests.
From just basic introductions and walk throughs, to some more in-depth experiences focusing on key elements such as cask management or blending techniques, visitors can immerse themselves in Glenfiddich’s extensive history, dating back to 1887.
The tour also ends in a tasting session where guests can sample various expressions from this iconic brand (the most important bit, right??).
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Ardbeg Distillery
Region: Islay
Situated on the south of Islay, Ardbeg Distillery is known for producing some of the peatiest whiskeys that Scotland has to offer.
A visit here allows guests to explore the unique characteristics that define the well known Islay whiskies, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views that surround the distillery.
Here, there are several tour options available, and that include tastings of their core range, as well as getting to try the limited editions that you will not find available elsewhere.
There is a lot of craftsmanship and attention to detail found in Ardbeg, making it a really special distillery to hit up on your travels.
Featured on this Scotland’s Wild Tour: 4 Day Scotch Whisky Tour to Oban & Islay from Edinburgh
Ardbeg Distillery
Region: Islay
Situated on the south of Islay, Ardbeg Distillery is known for producing some of the peatiest whiskeys that Scotland has to offer. A visit here allows guests to explore the unique characteristics that define the well known Islay whiskies, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views that surround the distillery.
Here, there are several tour options available, and that include tastings of their core range, as well as getting to try the limited editions that you will not find available elsewhere. There is a lot of craftsmanship and attention to detail found in Ardbeg, making it a really special distillery to hit up on your travels.
Featured on this Scotland’s Wild Tour: 4 Day Scotch Whisky Tour to Oban & Islay from Edinburgh
Laphroaig Distillery
Region: Islay
Also located on Islay, Laphroaig Distillery is famous for its rather strong smoky flavor, which comes from the peat fires they use during the barley malting.
Visitors can go on the guided tours to see Laphroaig’s own production methods, all while exploring the beautiful landscape that surrounds the distillery. A whiskey and the stunning views of Islay, what’s not to love?
A highlight of the tour is the opportunity to taste their signature drams directly from cask samples during certain tours— ideal for any whiskey lovers out there!
Featured on this Scotland’s Wild Tour: 4 Day Scotch Whisky Tour to Oban & Islay from Edinburgh
Glenmorangie Distillery
Region: Highland
Up in the Highlands near Tain, Glenmorangie Distillery is renowned for its elegant single malts aged primarily in American oak barrels, which give the whiskey its rich vanilla flavours and contrasting fruity undertones.
Their visitor center has interactive exhibits which lays out their innovative approach to whiskey-making, along with guided tastings that you can embark on - showcasing their famous products like Glenmorangie Original and various limited releases.
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Try a dram (or two!) with us on a Private Whiskey Tour!
Exploring these fantastic distilleries through our group and private tours not only enhances your trip to Scotland, but it also allows you to try out exclusive tastings, and be led around the country by our fantastic and knowledgeable guides, who are very passionate about our whiskey culture.
With Scotlands Wild, you can have your very own private tour, with individual itineraries that cater specifically to your own interests—so whether you’re keen on learning about traditional whiskey making methods, or you just want to sample some rare and iconic drams from all around the place - our tours will guarantee you have a brilliant journey through Scotland’s liquid heritage!
Slàinte!
