The 14 Best Whisky Distilleries To Visit In Scotland

Scotland is a historically rich country in the northern part of Great Britain. While it is known for having beautiful scenery, full of rolling hills, gentle landscapes, and even a few sandy beaches, the country is also famous for its world-class whisky. Scotch whisky is undoubtedly one of the most popular types of liquor in the world. Made using malted barley or other grains, Scotch whisky is typically aged in oak barrels for about three years before being bottled and served. There are also different types of Scotch, including single malt, single grain, blended malt, and blended grain. The country has over 100 Scotch whisky distilleries, so tourists often drop by a few when in the area. If you are a Scotch lover on the hunt for the country’s latest distillery, passing through, or just looking for something to do, we highly recommend visiting these 15 whisky distilleries while in Scotland.

1. Cardhu Distillery Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock Apart from being one of the best distilleries in Scotland, Cardhu Distillery is known as the first to be founded by a woman. In 1811, John and Helen Cumming purchased some farmland and converted it into a small distillery, but since they were operating their business without a license, John was convicted of making Scotch three times. Unbeknownst to the authorities, it was Helen who was doing all the distilling. After a few years, Helen was able to obtain a license with the help of George Smith’s Glenlivet Distillery, which first bought and distributed their whisky. After centuries of making top-quality whisky, Cardhu Distillery has emerged as a worldwide distiller and distributor. Cardhu offers several types of tours of their area, some of which include a tasting of six of their best single malt scotches.
2. The Dalmore Distillery The Dalmore Located in the town of Alness in the Highlands, this is one of the oldest and most revered distilleries in Scotland. Before whisky was even invented, the Dalmore legacy was already established in the country. After the Chief of Clan Mackenzie saved King Alexander III’s life in 1263, the regent gave the clan the right to use the 12-pointed Royal stag emblem on their coat of arms. This eventually became the Dalmore icon that they use on their products today. This iconic distillery uses Matusalem oloroso sherry casks, carefully selected by the master distiller Richard Paterson. These casks provide their whisky with unique flavor profiles you cannot get anywhere else. Not only does The Dalmore produce some of the best whisky in Scotland, but it is also located in one of the most beautiful locations. Right on the shores of the Cromarty Firth, tourists visit the distillery for its landscape as much as its whisky.
3. Isle of Raasay Distillery and Hotel Isle of Raasay Distillery One of the newer establishments on our list, the Isle of Raasay Distillery is located in the Western Highlands region. It is the only distillery in Scotland where guests can spend the night in the same building where whisky is produced. The Isle of Raasay is known as one of the most scenic areas in Scotland. From the town, you can also take a short ferry ride to visit the nearby Isle of Skye, another popular tourist destination. The distillery is known for its whisky, scenery, and chocolate pairings that make for quite a luxurious experience. Founded only in 2014, the Isle of Raasay Distillery and Hotel has quickly become one of the best places to visit in Scotland.
4. Laphroaig Distillery Matteo Provendola/Shutterstock   Laphroaig Distillery is another centuries-old distillery with a rich history on its walls. It is known for producing one of the smokiest whiskies in the world, which has attracted loyal connoisseurs for generations. Although Laphroaig Distillery is found in Scotland’s smallest whisky-producing region, it is still a popular tourist spot because of its high-quality whisky and historical tours. Their staff is also known for being very friendly and welcoming. Founded in 1815, this Islay distillery makes some of the world’s best whisky collections. One such brew is their single malt variant, much loved for its smooth finish and strong smoky flavor. The distillery’s building also has an iconic pagoda-style chimney that is hard to miss. Located by the sea, you can enjoy your whisky with a great view.
5. Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery is another one of the many great distilleries in the Highland regions of Scotland. Founded in 1896, this company consistently produces high-quality whisky that offers distinctive flavors. More than their whisky, however, Dewar’s Aberfeldy is also famous for being located in one of the most stunning regions in the country. It is just around the Pitilie Burn river which connects to the southern bank of the Tay. This place is one of the top spots in distillery tours not only because of its spectacular scenery and great whisky, but also its great service and proximity to other iconic distilleries such as Blair Athol. You can totally visit both distilleries on the same trip. From there, you can also head to the Perthshire countryside for its stunning panoramic views.

See more about - The Rise Of Japanese Whisky

6. Glenmorangie Distillery Glenmorangie Distillery Rarely will you find travel guides that do not mention Glenmorangie when talking about Scotland’s best tourist destinations. This iconic establishment is known for producing the best Speyside whisky. The Scotch’s light, floral, and sweet flavors are a staple of Glenmorangie’s. Located in the Northern Highlands, this distillery has been around since 1943. If you are a fan of drinking Scotch whisky, then you will have most likely seen this brand in every liquor store, right up there on the top shelf. Glenmorangie House is a hotel very close to the company’s distillery, with a beautiful view of Scotland’s Highlands. You can even play some rounds of golf there. The whisky company also offers several tours and tastings of their famous products.
7. Edradour Distillery TTphoto/Shutterstock Scotland does not run out of massive distilleries that cover dozens of acres of land. However, one of the leading Scotch whisky producers in the world is also one of Scotland’s smallest. Although Edradour Distillery claims to be the smallest Scotch distillery in the country, it is consistently one of the most visited by tourists. Located in Highland Perthshire, Edradour has been distilling since 1825. This single malt distillery only has one wash still and one spirit still. With a capacity of just 95,000 liters, Edradour Distillery makes sure each bottle of their famous single malt whisky is produced with the utmost care and quality. They also never use artificial coloration in their whisky, allowing you to see what a top-shelf whisky’s natural color is when you drink it.
8. Glenkinchie Distillery The Edinburgh Reporter The first Lowlands distillery on our list, Glenkinchie has been producing great whisky since 1837. If you ever find yourself in Edinburgh, don’t miss the chance to take a quick shuttle bus ride to this historical distillery. There are only six distilleries in Scotland’s Lowlands, and Glenkinchie is arguably the most popular among them. There is also a malt whisky museum in the Glenkinchie property, so you can learn the process of distilling interspersed with centuries of the company’s history, all while enjoying their famous drink. If you are simply looking for a good place to relax outside of busy Edinburgh, Glenkinchie Distillery also has a classy bar where you can get shots of their renowned whisky.
9. Glen Scotia Distillery Glen Scotia Distillery This historic distillery is another one you should not miss if you visit Scotland. Located in Campbeltown, Glen Scotia is one of the last three remaining distilleries in the district. It was founded in 1832 and has survived more than a century due to its top-quality whisky. Most of the distillery’s buildings are still the original structures, as the company prides itself on maintaining quality in both its products and facilities. There are also beehives on the property, which means you can enjoy delicious honey and Scotch cocktails. Also referred to as Old Scotia, this distillery can hold up to 600,000 liters of single malt Scotch whisky at a time. They have bottles of Double Cask, 15-year-old, 18-year-old, 25-year-old, and Victoriana Scotch.
10. Highland Park Distillery 13threephotography/Shutterstock The northernmost distillery in Scotland is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Located on the islands of Orkney, Highland Park is one of the most popular distilleries in the country. They offer several different tour packages that range from quick walking tours to one that even allows you to work at the distillery for a day. If you take one of these tours, you will see that Highland Park still uses a traditional malting floor where grain is turned by hand. This is no longer used in most modern distilleries, but Highland Park maintains that it enhances their whisky’s quality. One of the oldest distilleries in the world, Highland Park has been around since 1798. It has also won the Best Spirit in the World Award on three different occasions.

See more about - What’s The Difference Between Bourbon And Scotch?

11. The Macallan Estate and Distillery The Macallan Distillery The Macallan is one of the most easily recognizable whisky brands in the world. You will not find a good liquor store in the world that does not have Macallan for sale. The Macallan Distillery is about to celebrate its 200th anniversary in a couple of years, which makes it one of the longest-running Scotch whisky distilleries in the old. Although the company is centuries-old, its facilities are completely state-of-the-art and feature modern designs. They even use solar power and biofuels to promote sustainability in their operations. This Scotch theme park is a must-visit if you find yourself in Scotland. Located in the scenic district of Speyside, you can get the full Scotch experience from their tours, tastings, and the nearby Elchies Brasserie. You can enjoy a luxurious Scottish dinner there topped off by a shot or bottle of Macallan.
12. Old Pultney Distillery The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Founded in 1826, Old Pulteney was founded around the same era as Macallan and produces equally high-quality Scotch whisky. Located just a short drive from Pentland Firth, Old Pulteney is in the town of Wick just over the north coast of Scotland. If you are looking to go on a tour of the Old Pulteney property, make sure to book one in advance as there are only two sessions per day. You can also book a section of the distillery for tastings with a group. You can enjoy some of Old Pulteney’s popular and award-winning whiskey while taking in the beautiful ocean scenery.
13. Blair Athol Distillery Malts Right at the gateway to the Highlands, Blair Athol Distillery is situated in Pitlochry, Perthshire. This classic distillery makes the malt whisky essential for Bell’s Blended Whisky that is sold all over Europe. The best time to visit Blair Athol is during the summer months when it is warm and windy in the Highlands. The distillery also has expert tour guides that show you the entire process of distilling whisky as well as the bottling process. Blair Athol’s signature whisky has a very smooth tone with a minimal smoky flavor. This is a refreshing contrast to other older distilleries that produce aged, very smoky Scotch.
14. Glenlivet Distillery JASPERIMAGE/Shutterstock Founded in the same year as the Macallan Distillery, Glenlivet has an equally distinguished reputation in the industry. It is known for its single malt Scotch whisky that is so beloved by consumers that Glenlivet was able to stay open even during the Great Depression when most distilleries had to shut down. Glenlivet’s signature whisky is the second largest-selling single malt brand in the world. The distillery holds up to 10.5 million liters of pure alcohol at a time with about 14 stills on the property. Their most popular product is the 12-Year-Old Scotch thanks to its smooth, lightly fruity flavor that perfectly compliments any meal or snack. If you are going to visit the Glenlivet Distillery, we recommend you book their three-hour Whisky Food Safari which includes a tasting and a catered lunch. 

See more about - The Best Flavored Whiskey To Try In 2021

Scotland is a historically rich country in the northern part of Great Britain. While it is known for having beautiful scenery, full of rolling hills, gentle landscapes, and even a few sandy beaches, the country is also famous for its world-class whisky. Scotch whisky is undoubtedly one of the most popular types of liquor in the world. Made using malted barley or other grains, Scotch whisky is typically aged in oak barrels for about three years before being bottled and served. There are also different types of Scotch, including single malt, single grain, blended malt, and blended grain. The country has over 100 Scotch whisky distilleries, so tourists often drop by a few when in the area. If you are a Scotch lover on the hunt for the country’s latest distillery, passing through, or just looking for something to do, we highly recommend visiting these 15 whisky distilleries while in Scotland.

1. Cardhu Distillery Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock Apart from being one of the best distilleries in Scotland, Cardhu Distillery is known as the first to be founded by a woman. In 1811, John and Helen Cumming purchased some farmland and converted it into a small distillery, but since they were operating their business without a license, John was convicted of making Scotch three times. Unbeknownst to the authorities, it was Helen who was doing all the distilling. After a few years, Helen was able to obtain a license with the help of George Smith’s Glenlivet Distillery, which first bought and distributed their whisky. After centuries of making top-quality whisky, Cardhu Distillery has emerged as a worldwide distiller and distributor. Cardhu offers several types of tours of their area, some of which include a tasting of six of their best single malt scotches.
2. The Dalmore Distillery The Dalmore Located in the town of Alness in the Highlands, this is one of the oldest and most revered distilleries in Scotland. Before whisky was even invented, the Dalmore legacy was already established in the country. After the Chief of Clan Mackenzie saved King Alexander III’s life in 1263, the regent gave the clan the right to use the 12-pointed Royal stag emblem on their coat of arms. This eventually became the Dalmore icon that they use on their products today. This iconic distillery uses Matusalem oloroso sherry casks, carefully selected by the master distiller Richard Paterson. These casks provide their whisky with unique flavor profiles you cannot get anywhere else. Not only does The Dalmore produce some of the best whisky in Scotland, but it is also located in one of the most beautiful locations. Right on the shores of the Cromarty Firth, tourists visit the distillery for its landscape as much as its whisky.
3. Isle of Raasay Distillery and Hotel Isle of Raasay Distillery One of the newer establishments on our list, the Isle of Raasay Distillery is located in the Western Highlands region. It is the only distillery in Scotland where guests can spend the night in the same building where whisky is produced. The Isle of Raasay is known as one of the most scenic areas in Scotland. From the town, you can also take a short ferry ride to visit the nearby Isle of Skye, another popular tourist destination. The distillery is known for its whisky, scenery, and chocolate pairings that make for quite a luxurious experience. Founded only in 2014, the Isle of Raasay Distillery and Hotel has quickly become one of the best places to visit in Scotland.
4. Laphroaig Distillery Matteo Provendola/Shutterstock   Laphroaig Distillery is another centuries-old distillery with a rich history on its walls. It is known for producing one of the smokiest whiskies in the world, which has attracted loyal connoisseurs for generations. Although Laphroaig Distillery is found in Scotland’s smallest whisky-producing region, it is still a popular tourist spot because of its high-quality whisky and historical tours. Their staff is also known for being very friendly and welcoming. Founded in 1815, this Islay distillery makes some of the world’s best whisky collections. One such brew is their single malt variant, much loved for its smooth finish and strong smoky flavor. The distillery’s building also has an iconic pagoda-style chimney that is hard to miss. Located by the sea, you can enjoy your whisky with a great view.
5. Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery is another one of the many great distilleries in the Highland regions of Scotland. Founded in 1896, this company consistently produces high-quality whisky that offers distinctive flavors. More than their whisky, however, Dewar’s Aberfeldy is also famous for being located in one of the most stunning regions in the country. It is just around the Pitilie Burn river which connects to the southern bank of the Tay. This place is one of the top spots in distillery tours not only because of its spectacular scenery and great whisky, but also its great service and proximity to other iconic distilleries such as Blair Athol. You can totally visit both distilleries on the same trip. From there, you can also head to the Perthshire countryside for its stunning panoramic views.

See more about - The Rise Of Japanese Whisky

6. Glenmorangie Distillery Glenmorangie Distillery Rarely will you find travel guides that do not mention Glenmorangie when talking about Scotland’s best tourist destinations. This iconic establishment is known for producing the best Speyside whisky. The Scotch’s light, floral, and sweet flavors are a staple of Glenmorangie’s. Located in the Northern Highlands, this distillery has been around since 1943. If you are a fan of drinking Scotch whisky, then you will have most likely seen this brand in every liquor store, right up there on the top shelf. Glenmorangie House is a hotel very close to the company’s distillery, with a beautiful view of Scotland’s Highlands. You can even play some rounds of golf there. The whisky company also offers several tours and tastings of their famous products.
7. Edradour Distillery TTphoto/Shutterstock Scotland does not run out of massive distilleries that cover dozens of acres of land. However, one of the leading Scotch whisky producers in the world is also one of Scotland’s smallest. Although Edradour Distillery claims to be the smallest Scotch distillery in the country, it is consistently one of the most visited by tourists. Located in Highland Perthshire, Edradour has been distilling since 1825. This single malt distillery only has one wash still and one spirit still. With a capacity of just 95,000 liters, Edradour Distillery makes sure each bottle of their famous single malt whisky is produced with the utmost care and quality. They also never use artificial coloration in their whisky, allowing you to see what a top-shelf whisky’s natural color is when you drink it.
8. Glenkinchie Distillery The Edinburgh Reporter The first Lowlands distillery on our list, Glenkinchie has been producing great whisky since 1837. If you ever find yourself in Edinburgh, don’t miss the chance to take a quick shuttle bus ride to this historical distillery. There are only six distilleries in Scotland’s Lowlands, and Glenkinchie is arguably the most popular among them. There is also a malt whisky museum in the Glenkinchie property, so you can learn the process of distilling interspersed with centuries of the company’s history, all while enjoying their famous drink. If you are simply looking for a good place to relax outside of busy Edinburgh, Glenkinchie Distillery also has a classy bar where you can get shots of their renowned whisky.
9. Glen Scotia Distillery Glen Scotia Distillery This historic distillery is another one you should not miss if you visit Scotland. Located in Campbeltown, Glen Scotia is one of the last three remaining distilleries in the district. It was founded in 1832 and has survived more than a century due to its top-quality whisky. Most of the distillery’s buildings are still the original structures, as the company prides itself on maintaining quality in both its products and facilities. There are also beehives on the property, which means you can enjoy delicious honey and Scotch cocktails. Also referred to as Old Scotia, this distillery can hold up to 600,000 liters of single malt Scotch whisky at a time. They have bottles of Double Cask, 15-year-old, 18-year-old, 25-year-old, and Victoriana Scotch.
10. Highland Park Distillery 13threephotography/Shutterstock The northernmost distillery in Scotland is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Located on the islands of Orkney, Highland Park is one of the most popular distilleries in the country. They offer several different tour packages that range from quick walking tours to one that even allows you to work at the distillery for a day. If you take one of these tours, you will see that Highland Park still uses a traditional malting floor where grain is turned by hand. This is no longer used in most modern distilleries, but Highland Park maintains that it enhances their whisky’s quality. One of the oldest distilleries in the world, Highland Park has been around since 1798. It has also won the Best Spirit in the World Award on three different occasions.

See more about - What’s The Difference Between Bourbon And Scotch?

11. The Macallan Estate and Distillery The Macallan Distillery The Macallan is one of the most easily recognizable whisky brands in the world. You will not find a good liquor store in the world that does not have Macallan for sale. The Macallan Distillery is about to celebrate its 200th anniversary in a couple of years, which makes it one of the longest-running Scotch whisky distilleries in the old. Although the company is centuries-old, its facilities are completely state-of-the-art and feature modern designs. They even use solar power and biofuels to promote sustainability in their operations. This Scotch theme park is a must-visit if you find yourself in Scotland. Located in the scenic district of Speyside, you can get the full Scotch experience from their tours, tastings, and the nearby Elchies Brasserie. You can enjoy a luxurious Scottish dinner there topped off by a shot or bottle of Macallan.
12. Old Pultney Distillery The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Founded in 1826, Old Pulteney was founded around the same era as Macallan and produces equally high-quality Scotch whisky. Located just a short drive from Pentland Firth, Old Pulteney is in the town of Wick just over the north coast of Scotland. If you are looking to go on a tour of the Old Pulteney property, make sure to book one in advance as there are only two sessions per day. You can also book a section of the distillery for tastings with a group. You can enjoy some of Old Pulteney’s popular and award-winning whiskey while taking in the beautiful ocean scenery.
13. Blair Athol Distillery Malts Right at the gateway to the Highlands, Blair Athol Distillery is situated in Pitlochry, Perthshire. This classic distillery makes the malt whisky essential for Bell’s Blended Whisky that is sold all over Europe. The best time to visit Blair Athol is during the summer months when it is warm and windy in the Highlands. The distillery also has expert tour guides that show you the entire process of distilling whisky as well as the bottling process. Blair Athol’s signature whisky has a very smooth tone with a minimal smoky flavor. This is a refreshing contrast to other older distilleries that produce aged, very smoky Scotch.
14. Glenlivet Distillery JASPERIMAGE/Shutterstock Founded in the same year as the Macallan Distillery, Glenlivet has an equally distinguished reputation in the industry. It is known for its single malt Scotch whisky that is so beloved by consumers that Glenlivet was able to stay open even during the Great Depression when most distilleries had to shut down. Glenlivet’s signature whisky is the second largest-selling single malt brand in the world. The distillery holds up to 10.5 million liters of pure alcohol at a time with about 14 stills on the property. Their most popular product is the 12-Year-Old Scotch thanks to its smooth, lightly fruity flavor that perfectly compliments any meal or snack. If you are going to visit the Glenlivet Distillery, we recommend you book their three-hour Whisky Food Safari which includes a tasting and a catered lunch. 

See more about - The Best Flavored Whiskey To Try In 2021

Scotland is a historically rich country in the northern part of Great Britain. While it is known for having beautiful scenery, full of rolling hills, gentle landscapes, and even a few sandy beaches, the country is also famous for its world-class whisky. Scotch whisky is undoubtedly one of the most popular types of liquor in the world.

Made using malted barley or other grains, Scotch whisky is typically aged in oak barrels for about three years before being bottled and served. There are also different types of Scotch, including single malt, single grain, blended malt, and blended grain. The country has over 100 Scotch whisky distilleries, so tourists often drop by a few when in the area.

If you are a Scotch lover on the hunt for the country’s latest distillery, passing through, or just looking for something to do, we highly recommend visiting these 15 whisky distilleries while in Scotland.

1. Cardhu Distillery

Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock

Apart from being one of the best distilleries in Scotland, Cardhu Distillery is known as the first to be founded by a woman. In 1811, John and Helen Cumming purchased some farmland and converted it into a small distillery, but since they were operating their business without a license, John was convicted of making Scotch three times. Unbeknownst to the authorities, it was Helen who was doing all the distilling.

After a few years, Helen was able to obtain a license with the help of George Smith’s Glenlivet Distillery, which first bought and distributed their whisky. After centuries of making top-quality whisky, Cardhu Distillery has emerged as a worldwide distiller and distributor.

Cardhu offers several types of tours of their area, some of which include a tasting of six of their best single malt scotches.

2. The Dalmore Distillery

The Dalmore

Located in the town of Alness in the Highlands, this is one of the oldest and most revered distilleries in Scotland. Before whisky was even invented, the Dalmore legacy was already established in the country.

After the Chief of Clan Mackenzie saved King Alexander III’s life in 1263, the regent gave the clan the right to use the 12-pointed Royal stag emblem on their coat of arms. This eventually became the Dalmore icon that they use on their products today.

This iconic distillery uses Matusalem oloroso sherry casks, carefully selected by the master distiller Richard Paterson. These casks provide their whisky with unique flavor profiles you cannot get anywhere else.

Not only does The Dalmore produce some of the best whisky in Scotland, but it is also located in one of the most beautiful locations. Right on the shores of the Cromarty Firth, tourists visit the distillery for its landscape as much as its whisky.

3. Isle of Raasay Distillery and Hotel

Isle of Raasay Distillery

One of the newer establishments on our list, the Isle of Raasay Distillery is located in the Western Highlands region. It is the only distillery in Scotland where guests can spend the night in the same building where whisky is produced.

The Isle of Raasay is known as one of the most scenic areas in Scotland. From the town, you can also take a short ferry ride to visit the nearby Isle of Skye, another popular tourist destination.

The distillery is known for its whisky, scenery, and chocolate pairings that make for quite a luxurious experience. Founded only in 2014, the Isle of Raasay Distillery and Hotel has quickly become one of the best places to visit in Scotland.

4. Laphroaig Distillery

Matteo Provendola/Shutterstock

Laphroaig Distillery is another centuries-old distillery with a rich history on its walls. It is known for producing one of the smokiest whiskies in the world, which has attracted loyal connoisseurs for generations.

Although Laphroaig Distillery is found in Scotland’s smallest whisky-producing region, it is still a popular tourist spot because of its high-quality whisky and historical tours. Their staff is also known for being very friendly and welcoming.

Founded in 1815, this Islay distillery makes some of the world’s best whisky collections. One such brew is their single malt variant, much loved for its smooth finish and strong smoky flavor. The distillery’s building also has an iconic pagoda-style chimney that is hard to miss. Located by the sea, you can enjoy your whisky with a great view.

5. Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery is another one of the many great distilleries in the Highland regions of Scotland. Founded in 1896, this company consistently produces high-quality whisky that offers distinctive flavors.

More than their whisky, however, Dewar’s Aberfeldy is also famous for being located in one of the most stunning regions in the country. It is just around the Pitilie Burn river which connects to the southern bank of the Tay.

This place is one of the top spots in distillery tours not only because of its spectacular scenery and great whisky, but also its great service and proximity to other iconic distilleries such as Blair Athol. You can totally visit both distilleries on the same trip. From there, you can also head to the Perthshire countryside for its stunning panoramic views.

See more about - The Rise Of Japanese Whisky

6. Glenmorangie Distillery

Glenmorangie Distillery

Rarely will you find travel guides that do not mention Glenmorangie when talking about Scotland’s best tourist destinations. This iconic establishment is known for producing the best Speyside whisky. The Scotch’s light, floral, and sweet flavors are a staple of Glenmorangie’s.

See more about - The Rise Of Japanese Whisky

Located in the Northern Highlands, this distillery has been around since 1943. If you are a fan of drinking Scotch whisky, then you will have most likely seen this brand in every liquor store, right up there on the top shelf.

Glenmorangie House is a hotel very close to the company’s distillery, with a beautiful view of Scotland’s Highlands. You can even play some rounds of golf there. The whisky company also offers several tours and tastings of their famous products.

7. Edradour Distillery

TTphoto/Shutterstock

Scotland does not run out of massive distilleries that cover dozens of acres of land. However, one of the leading Scotch whisky producers in the world is also one of Scotland’s smallest. Although Edradour Distillery claims to be the smallest Scotch distillery in the country, it is consistently one of the most visited by tourists.

Located in Highland Perthshire, Edradour has been distilling since 1825. This single malt distillery only has one wash still and one spirit still. With a capacity of just 95,000 liters, Edradour Distillery makes sure each bottle of their famous single malt whisky is produced with the utmost care and quality.

They also never use artificial coloration in their whisky, allowing you to see what a top-shelf whisky’s natural color is when you drink it.

8. Glenkinchie Distillery

The Edinburgh Reporter

The first Lowlands distillery on our list, Glenkinchie has been producing great whisky since 1837. If you ever find yourself in Edinburgh, don’t miss the chance to take a quick shuttle bus ride to this historical distillery.

There are only six distilleries in Scotland’s Lowlands, and Glenkinchie is arguably the most popular among them. There is also a malt whisky museum in the Glenkinchie property, so you can learn the process of distilling interspersed with centuries of the company’s history, all while enjoying their famous drink.

If you are simply looking for a good place to relax outside of busy Edinburgh, Glenkinchie Distillery also has a classy bar where you can get shots of their renowned whisky.

9. Glen Scotia Distillery

Glen Scotia Distillery

This historic distillery is another one you should not miss if you visit Scotland. Located in Campbeltown, Glen Scotia is one of the last three remaining distilleries in the district. It was founded in 1832 and has survived more than a century due to its top-quality whisky.

Most of the distillery’s buildings are still the original structures, as the company prides itself on maintaining quality in both its products and facilities. There are also beehives on the property, which means you can enjoy delicious honey and Scotch cocktails.

Also referred to as Old Scotia, this distillery can hold up to 600,000 liters of single malt Scotch whisky at a time. They have bottles of Double Cask, 15-year-old, 18-year-old, 25-year-old, and Victoriana Scotch.

10. Highland Park Distillery

13threephotography/Shutterstock

The northernmost distillery in Scotland is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Located on the islands of Orkney, Highland Park is one of the most popular distilleries in the country.

They offer several different tour packages that range from quick walking tours to one that even allows you to work at the distillery for a day. If you take one of these tours, you will see that Highland Park still uses a traditional malting floor where grain is turned by hand. This is no longer used in most modern distilleries, but Highland Park maintains that it enhances their whisky’s quality.

One of the oldest distilleries in the world, Highland Park has been around since 1798. It has also won the Best Spirit in the World Award on three different occasions.

See more about - What’s The Difference Between Bourbon And Scotch?

11. The Macallan Estate and Distillery

The Macallan Distillery

The Macallan is one of the most easily recognizable whisky brands in the world. You will not find a good liquor store in the world that does not have Macallan for sale.

See more about - What’s The Difference Between Bourbon And Scotch?

The Macallan Distillery is about to celebrate its 200th anniversary in a couple of years, which makes it one of the longest-running Scotch whisky distilleries in the old. Although the company is centuries-old, its facilities are completely state-of-the-art and feature modern designs. They even use solar power and biofuels to promote sustainability in their operations.

This Scotch theme park is a must-visit if you find yourself in Scotland. Located in the scenic district of Speyside, you can get the full Scotch experience from their tours, tastings, and the nearby Elchies Brasserie. You can enjoy a luxurious Scottish dinner there topped off by a shot or bottle of Macallan.

12. Old Pultney Distillery

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

Founded in 1826, Old Pulteney was founded around the same era as Macallan and produces equally high-quality Scotch whisky. Located just a short drive from Pentland Firth, Old Pulteney is in the town of Wick just over the north coast of Scotland.

If you are looking to go on a tour of the Old Pulteney property, make sure to book one in advance as there are only two sessions per day. You can also book a section of the distillery for tastings with a group.

You can enjoy some of Old Pulteney’s popular and award-winning whiskey while taking in the beautiful ocean scenery.

13. Blair Athol Distillery

Malts

Right at the gateway to the Highlands, Blair Athol Distillery is situated in Pitlochry, Perthshire. This classic distillery makes the malt whisky essential for Bell’s Blended Whisky that is sold all over Europe.

The best time to visit Blair Athol is during the summer months when it is warm and windy in the Highlands. The distillery also has expert tour guides that show you the entire process of distilling whisky as well as the bottling process.

Blair Athol’s signature whisky has a very smooth tone with a minimal smoky flavor. This is a refreshing contrast to other older distilleries that produce aged, very smoky Scotch.

14. Glenlivet Distillery

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Founded in the same year as the Macallan Distillery, Glenlivet has an equally distinguished reputation in the industry. It is known for its single malt Scotch whisky that is so beloved by consumers that Glenlivet was able to stay open even during the Great Depression when most distilleries had to shut down.

Glenlivet’s signature whisky is the second largest-selling single malt brand in the world. The distillery holds up to 10.5 million liters of pure alcohol at a time with about 14 stills on the property. Their most popular product is the 12-Year-Old Scotch thanks to its smooth, lightly fruity flavor that perfectly compliments any meal or snack.

If you are going to visit the Glenlivet Distillery, we recommend you book their three-hour Whisky Food Safari which includes a tasting and a catered lunch. 

See more about - The Best Flavored Whiskey To Try In 2021

See more about - The Best Flavored Whiskey To Try In 2021