Scotland’s Famous Whisky Trail

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Over the centuries, Scotland became world-renowned for the quality and distinctive character of its Scotch malt whisky for whisky distillers and enthusiasts alike. Scotland has six different whisky regions with over 120 whisky distilleries.

The Speyside region is revered amongst whisky connoisseurs around the world. It is one of Scotland's warmest and driest areas, perfect for growing barley. Great barley growing conditions combined with crystal clear water that trickles down from the nearby mountains produces exceptionally high-quality whisky. 

But what exactly is the whisky trail? 

THE WHISKEY TRAIL

Scotland's Whisky Trail is the only trail of its kind in the world, set in the heart of the stunning Speyside region. This famous trail visits one historic distillery, seven world-famous working distilleries, and the fascinating Speyside Cooperage.

While within a manageable distance of one another, it is best to set aside a few days to experience them all properly. 

1. Glenlivet Distillery

The Glenlivet Distillery is the oldest legal distillery in the region. The company has remained successful, closing only briefly during the onset of the Second World War. It is the largest-selling single-malt Scotch whisky in the United States and the second-biggest seller globally. 

A guided tour of Glenlivet Distillery gives you insight into the interesting history of this spectacular single malt. Along with tasting samples in the dram room, enjoy a dram tasting drawn straight from a cask.

2. Cardhu Distillery

Cardhu was the first distillery officially pioneered by a woman, Helen Cumming.

Built atop the steep Mannoch Hill, Helen would watch for approaching police. She would cover herself in flour to mask the smell, tell them it was a bakery, and offer them tea - while raising a flag to warn the other distilleries in the region. 

Cardhu Distillery offers full-sensory tours and tutored whisky tastings to learn about the Speyside malt enjoyed independently and as the heart of Johnnie Walker whiskies.  

3. Speyside Cooperage

Opened in 1947, the Speyside Cooperage is the only working cooperage in the UK. It acts as the visitor's center for the Whisky Trail and a functioning cooperage, producing many of the casks for the region's distillers. 

Witness the lifecycle of the cask, see the highly skilled coopers at work, and try it for yourself with the mini casks. 

4. Glenfiddich Distillery

Arguably the most famous on this list, Glenfiddich is an internationally acclaimed brand of Speyside scotch whisky. 

The distillery is located in a glen by the River Fiddich, from which it gained its water source and long-lasting name. It is one of the few single-malt distilleries to remain family owned.

Learn about the history of Glenfiddich and the whisky-making process on their tour. The tour ends with a selection of samples or a driver's tasting pack to take away.

5. Glen Grant Distillery 

Glen Grant Distillery is the only Scotch whisky distillery named after its founding owners. It was founded in 1840 by the Grant brothers, two illegal distillers and distributors who decided to go straight and take out a distilling license. 

See the magnificent shining copper stills that produce a malt of unique quality and crisp fresh character. Enjoy a dram in the coachman's house at the end of your tour, and then stroll through the Victorian Garden. 

6. Strathisla Distillery

Dating back to 1786, Strathisla is Scotland's oldest continually operating distillery.   

The distillery produces a variety of Chivas Regal premium blended whiskies as well as its single-malt Strathisla 12-Year-Old whisky. On a distillery tour, learn about the art of blending.

7. Glen Moray Distillery

Glen Moray is one of Scotland's best-loved single malt whiskies. It has been crafted since 1897 on the banks of the River Lossie. The combination of pure waters from the river, malted barley, distillation in traditional copper stills, and maturation in ex-bourbon casks give the whisky its smooth, well-balanced character.

Watch the small, dedicated team at Glen Moray Distillery craft the single malt on a tour. This is a friendly and informal working distillery, with experienced tour guides eager to share their story.

8. Benromach Distillery

Founded in 1898, Benromach distillery is fed with spring water, giving the whisky its distinct flavor. 

Take a tour of Benromach Distillery to learn more about Speyside's smallest distillery, which makes the finest handmade whisky. All casks are hand-filled, individually weighed, stenciled by hand, and stowed in traditional dunnage warehouses.

9. Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery

While no longer producing, Dallas Dhu Distillery operates as a museum for tourists of the whisky trail. It is a great place to hear more about the whisky-making process, the ingredients involved, and regional traditions. 

I love discussing how to make your perfect Scottish whisky tour experience a reality.

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