• 10 Notable Whisky’s

    “Savor the Spirit: A Whisky Odyssey in the Scottish Highlands and Speyside”

    Embark on a journey through the Scottish Highlands and Speyside. Yesterdays rain becomes tomorrows Whisky. Where the air is infused with the aroma of peat and the hills echo the tales of centuries-old distilleries. Join Go Highland Tours as we unveil the magic of North Highland and Speyside whiskies. Inviting you to explore the heart and soul of Scotland’s liquid gold.

    Discover the North Highland Elixir

    In the North Highlands, rugged landscapes meet the artistry of whisky-making. Sip on the bold and complex flavours of Glenmorangie, Dalmore, and Oban, each distillery crafting elixirs that embody the untamed beauty of the region.

    Speyside’s Liquid Symphony

    Known as the whisky paradise, Speyside beckons with its lush glens and a symphony of distilleries. Indulge in the smooth elegance of Macallan, Glenfiddich, and Balvenie, as their expressions weave tales of Speyside’s rich history and unparalleled craftsmanship.

    Immerse in Highland Whisky Culture

    With every distillery tour, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich whisky culture of the Scottish Highlands. From the traditional craftsmanship to the unique terroir that influences each drop, experience the essence of Scotch whisky like never before.

    As you navigate the enchanting realms of the North Highlands and Speyside, let Go Highland Tours be your guide to the finest Scotch whiskies. Unearth the stories behind the labels, savor the complexities in every dram, and let the spirit of Scotland captivate your senses. Book your whisky odyssey with us and toast to the unparalleled magic of Highland and Speyside whiskies. SlĂ inte mhath!

    Here’s 10 Whisky’s of note to get you started…

    1. Glenmorangie Distillery: Located in Tain, Ross-shire, Glenmorangie is renowned for its elegant and complex single malt whiskies. It’s known for its “The Original” expression and a variety of other limited releases.
    2. Balblair Distillery: Found near Edderton, Balblair is known for its vintage releases, offering single malt whiskies that showcase the characteristics of specific years. The distillery’s offerings often emphasize the influence of maturation on flavor.
    3. Pulteney Distillery: Situated in Wick, Pulteney is one of the northernmost mainland distilleries in Scotland. Its maritime location contributes to its unique flavor profile, and it’s recognized for its Old Pulteney expressions.
    4. Wolfburn Distillery: Located in Thurso, Wolfburn is a relatively new distillery that revived the name of an old distillery that operated in the 19th century. It has quickly gained recognition for its fresh and distinctive single malts.
    5. Clynelish Distillery: Positioned near Brora, Clynelish produces a range of whiskies characterized by their waxy and sometimes fruity notes. It is known for both its official releases and independent bottlings.
    6. Old Pulteney Distillery: Based in Wick, Old Pulteney is celebrated for its maritime-influenced whiskies. It often features flavors reminiscent of the sea and coastal elements.
    7. Benromach Distillery: Located in Forres, Benromach is known for its traditional production methods and a range of peated and unpeated single malts. It’s often associated with a classic Speyside style.
    8. Tomatin Distillery: Situated near Inverness, Tomatin is one of the largest distilleries in Scotland. It offers a variety of expressions, ranging from lightly peated to heavily sherried.
    9. Ardmore Distillery: Found near Kennethmont, Ardmore produces peated Highland whiskies with a distinct smoky character. It’s one of the few distilleries in the region known for its peated offerings.
    10. Glen Ord Distillery: Situated near Muir of Ord, Glen Ord is one of the few remaining distilleries that still uses traditional “worm tub” condensers. It produces whisky for blends, including the Singleton of Glen Ord.

    Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are more distilleries in the northern Scottish Highlands region. Distillery names, locations, and expressions can change over time due to various factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with ‘reliable sources ‘Go Highlands’ for the latest information on whisky distilleries.

  • Highland Whisky Distilleries

    The history of whisky distilleries in the northern Scottish Highlands is a tale deeply intertwined with the rugged landscape, the resilient people, and the art of crafting this iconic spirit. Stretching back centuries, the Northern Scottish Highlands have played a significant role in the development and evolution of whisky production, shaping the industry’s rich history.

    The origins of whisky distillation in the region can be traced to the medieval monasteries. Monks, known for their knowledge of alchemy and herbal remedies, began experimenting with distillation techniques to create potent elixirs. As knowledge spread, the distillation of spirits became a practical endeavor, particularly in the challenging climate of the northern Highlands. The harsh conditions necessitated the preservation of grains, and distillation provided a solution, leading to the emergence of early whisky production.

    Over time, as political and economic landscapes shifted, distillation evolved from a monastic pursuit to a more commercial endeavor. The passage of various Acts of Parliament aimed at regulating alcohol production marked important milestones in the history of Highland distilleries. The Excise Act of 1823, introduced by the British government, revolutionized the industry by legitimizing and regulating small-scale distillation, paving the way for licensed distilleries to operate openly.

    The northern Scottish Highlands, with its abundance of natural resources like pure spring water and locally grown barley, became an ideal location for distillery expansion. The region’s proximity to peat bogs also played a pivotal role, as the use of peat smoke to dry malted barley contributed to the distinctive flavor profiles associated with Highland whiskies.

    As the 19th century unfolded, the Highland whisky industry thrived. Numerous distilleries emerged, each contributing to the region’s reputation for producing quality spirits. The remote and rugged terrain of the northern Highlands posed challenges for transportation, resulting in distinct regional variations in whisky production. Isolation fostered a sense of individuality, allowing distilleries to experiment with different techniques and refine their unique recipes.

    However, the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought their share of hardships to the Highland whisky industry. Factors such as economic downturns, changing consumer preferences, and the impact of World Wars all had a considerable impact. Many distilleries faced closures or struggled to stay afloat during these tumultuous times.

    Despite these challenges, a resurgence in interest in traditional and artisanal products in the late 20th century breathed new life into the northern Scottish Highlands’ distillery scene. Whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs sought out the distinctive flavors and historical significance offered by Highland whiskies. This resurgence paved the way for a new generation of distilleries and the revival of some older, mothballed ones.

    Today, the northern Scottish Highlands continue to be a bastion of whisky production, with a diverse range of distilleries dotting the landscape. These distilleries pay homage to the region’s rich history while embracing modern techniques and innovations. Visitors can explore the traditions, craftsmanship, and breathtaking beauty of the Highlands while indulging in the fruits of centuries-old labor.

    In conclusion, the history of whisky distilleries in the northern Scottish Highlands is a captivating saga of innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship. From humble beginnings in medieval monasteries to the bustling industry of today, the Highlands have played an instrumental role in shaping the whisky landscape. The legacy of these distilleries is not merely in the spirits they produce, but in the stories they tell, the traditions they uphold, and the deep connection to the land that continues to define Highland whisky to this day.