Few countries have such a strong identity with a drink as Scotland with whisky. Despite being the quintessential drink of the Scottish, Scotch whisky is enjoyed almost everywhere on Earth with the wares being exported year on year in vast volumes. With the oldest surviving distillery in the country dating back to 1775, whisky has had huge impact upon the culture of the country and continues to do so.
Tourists from all over the World will flock to Scotland for whisky tours, tasters and introductions, understanding that there is no place for imitations and copycats. Here are a few of the finest distilleries and sights to take in when scouring Scotland for the finest whisky experiences.
Laphroaig Distillery
Laphroaig is one of the World’s most distinctive and best-loved scotches with its unique peaty taste. The 200 year old distillery is still manned by a traditional small team of connoisseurs who seek the finest ingredients and still employ age-tested techniques. Thousands of tourists visit the distillery every year to learn from the team who are welcomed to share in the secrets of the distillation process and share a dram afterwards. Every part of the process is included on the tour from the peat cutting bed to the stills.
Lagavulin Distillery
On the Isle of Islay sits the picturesque waterside distillery of Lagavulin. Visiting the distillery feels like taking a step back in time when jobs were completed with the care and patience required. The very personal tour is more akin to a friend showing you around their home than being allowed into the belly of the beast. The experts will show you their wares including the unusual pear-shaped stills that have become synonymous with Lagavulin.
Glenturret Distillery
The Glenturret distillery is reputedly the oldest distillery in Scotland, despite this claim being challenged by a number of other distilleries. Established in 1775, the distillery is situated on the banks of the Turret River in a secluded valley. Savour the historical importance of this distillery whilst enjoying the relaxing and welcoming atmosphere of the small community.
Scottish Highland Cruise
Aside from the endless distilleries in Scotland, the country also offers breath-taking scenery. Mountains, winding rivers and unspoilt wildlife make up the staggering backdrop that needs to be enjoyed with full clarity. Cruise1st offer a Scottish Highlands and Islands cruise that takes in just some of the spectacular views that the country has to offer in the comfort of a luxury cruise liner. With numerous land excursion days, the cruise can take you from one distillery location to another.
The Macallan Estate
With a dedicated Hospitality Manager, the Macallan experience is one of the most involved and comprehensive in Scotland. Take in a tour of the Macallan estate and you will be treated to some of the secrets of the whisky and the distilling process including information regarding the production of Macallan’s prized oak maturation casks.
Auchentoshan Tour
Auchentoshan differs significantly from other Scottish whisky due to the triple distillation process, producing an incredibly smooth drink. The classic tour of the Auchentoshan distillery costs only £6 and includes a free dram of Auchentoshan single malt at its conclusion with experts answering all questions and queries.
