Scotland is home to over 150 whisky distilleries, each offering something special. Some boast breathtaking landscapes, while others focus on time-honored traditions. With so many choices, picking where to go can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a whisky aficionado or a curious traveler, these six distilleries deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Port of Leith Distillery – A Vertical Marvel in Edinburgh
Perched on Whisky Quay in Leith, Edinburgh, Port of Leith Distillery reimagines whisky-making with a striking vertical design. This setup utilizes gravity to streamline production, from milling at the top to maturation at the base.
I visited in August 2024, and it was an experience unlike any other. Our guide, Adeline, masterfully walked us through the entire process before we settled in for a tasting session featuring Table Whisky and some fantastic ports bottled for the Leith Export Co.
- The top-floor bar provides panoramic views of the city.
- While Port of Leith’s own whisky is still maturing, its ports and blends already impress.
- Just a short walk away, the Lind & Lime Gin Distillery is also worth a stop.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery – A Highland Gem
Nestled in the Highlands near Cairngorms National Park, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery is steeped in history. Founded in 1896, it serves as the home of the Dewar’s brand and offers a well-rounded visitor experience.
The Heritage Museum is a must-see. It showcases rare bottles, historical artifacts, and interactive exhibits detailing the whisky-making process. I spent hours here, soaking up every detail about the brand’s evolution.
The tour includes:
- A walk through the Warehouse Experience, featuring an impressive display of cask heads.
- A tasting session where a quiz helps match visitors with the perfect dram.
- A laid-back bar and gift shop to extend the experience.
For an even deeper dive, Aberfeldy offers extended tastings and whisky blending sessions.
Glenfiddich Distillery – The Heart of Speyside Whisky
Located in Dufftown, Glenfiddich is one of the few remaining family-owned distilleries. Its legacy and craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of the tour, making it a must-visit for whisky lovers.
The Explorer Tour takes guests through each stage of production, from mashing to maturation, before concluding with a tasting of the Flagship Collection. Warehouse 8, where the solera process creates their famed 15-year-old whisky, is a particular highlight.
For those looking to splurge, a £250 premium tour includes:
- A detailed exploration of the distillery’s history and techniques.
- Tasting of rare and limited-edition whiskies.
- A two-course meal paired with exceptional drams.
Just next door, The Balvenie Distillery offers another incredible experience for those wanting a two-for-one whisky adventure.
Laphroaig Distillery – A Peaty Pilgrimage on Islay
If bold, smoky whisky is your thing, Laphroaig is the place to visit. Situated on Islay’s south coast, this legendary distillery provides an immersive look at its traditional methods, from floor malting to open peat kilns.
One of the standout experiences is the Warehouse 1 tasting, where guests sample whisky straight from the cask. For those wanting a hands-on moment, the Distillers Wares Tour lets visitors fill and label their own bottle to take home.
Laphroaig also offers:
- The chance to become a “Friend of Laphroaig” and claim a square foot of land.
- Stunning coastal views that make every sip feel more special.
- Easy access to nearby Islay distilleries like Ardbeg and Lagavulin.
Even if peated whisky isn’t your usual choice, the experience here is unforgettable.
Glen Scotia Distillery – A Hidden Treasure in Campbeltown
Campbeltown was once a whisky powerhouse, and Glen Scotia remains one of its proud survivors. Established in 1832, the distillery’s single malts capture the essence of the region—smoky yet fruity, balanced yet bold.
Glen Scotia offers a range of tours, but the Distillery Manager Tour is the standout. Led by Iain McAlister himself, this 2.5-hour experience provides a deep dive into production methods, finishing with a tasting of hand-selected casks.
The distillery experience includes:
| Tour Type | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Tour | £12 | Guided tour, history, single malt tasting |
| Warehouse Tasting | £25 | Cask samples, maturation insights |
| Distillery Manager Tour | £75 | Exclusive cask samples, expert-led tour |
Glen Scotia’s whiskies offer a more approachable alternative to the peat-heavy Springbank, making it a great stop for those seeking something different.
