Few distilleries might be more scenic that the Scottish Highlands where many Scotch distilleries are located. Enjoy a tour of the countryside as you make your way from island to island.
When you go, these are the best Scotch distilleries to visit.
Best Scotch distilleries to visit
How do these rankings work?
1. The Glenlivet – Moray
This Speyside distillery has been around since the 1800s. Surrounded by mountains and bootleggers’ routes, it’s a scenic landscape with an alluring history. Go to try their single malts before moving on to the next round.
2. The Macallan – Moray
Another one of Scotland’s biggest producers and is also located in Speyside. Macallan is known for its extensive archive of vintage whiskeys, such as the Macallan 1951–though it will set you back a bit. Take the Precious Tour for a more in-depth look at the facility and distilling process.
3. Glenmorangie – Tain
A Highland distillery, Glenmorangie feature casks from all over the world and is home to the tallest stills in Scotland. Their whiskeys are aged only twice, but involve quite a bit of care. Take the Heritage Tour to visit the water source of the distillery too–Tarlogie Springs.
4. Talisker – Isle of Skye
Located right on the Highland waters, Talisker is one of the most atmospheric and beautiful distilleries. With dramatic views of the Cuillins, it’s easy to savour the full-bodied single malts they produce there on the Isle of Skye.
5. Lagavulin – Islay Island
Once again located right on the water of Lagavulin Bay, this whitewashed distillery is perched on the coast of the Isle of Islay. Stop at the ruins of Dunyveg Castle before venturing on to the distillery for an afternoon of touring the production and, of course, tasting their wares.
As one of the oldest Scotch distilleries around, a visit here is a nice history less too.
6. Glenfiddich – Dufftown
Another Speyside favorite, Glenfiddich offers several tours to cater to all types Scotch enthusiasts. From beginner to advanced, you’ll find they cover all the ground you can imagine.
7. Highland Park – OrkneyÂ
On the Isle of Orkney, Highland Park is near the northernmost point of Scotland and was built in 1798 by a well-known smuggler of the day, Magnus Eunson. This is one of only six establishments that still malts their own barley in all of Scotland. Take a tour that covers the production completely from start to finish.
