Whisky-making is a beautiful combination of science and artistry, with a just pinch of magic thrown in. On Aberdeen’s doorstep you’ll find a number of whisky distilleries producing fine, distinctive Highland single malts. Many of the region’s distilleries offer visitors the chance to see behind the scenes and get a rare insight into how Scotland’s National Drink is carefully crafted. Here are a few you can visit:
South of Aberdeen and nestled under the Grampian foothills is Fettercairn Distillery, which was founded in 1824. It’s open for visits between Easter and October, but it’s best to arrange your tour time in advance.
Near Ballater - and not far from Balmoral Castle - is the handsome distillery which was awarded a Royal Warrant from Queen Victoria. Royal Lochnagar is open year-round and offers a range of tours as well as private tastings.
This historic distillery is almost 200 years old. Open all year round, the distillery has a visitor centre, gift shop and a range of fascinating guided tours. GlenDronach Distillery lies north of Aberdeen and from the city takes about an hour to reach by car.
Lying just 20 miles from Aberdeen, Glen Gairoch Distillery specialises in fine non chill-filtered single malt whiskies. It’s open year-round and offers a unique range of tours, including the more unusual whisky and cheese pairing! Private tastings are also available.
In the north, skirting the picturesque Moray coastline, you’ll find the Glenglassaugh Distillery. It sat silently for 20 years until reproduction started up again in 2008. The distillery enjoys great sea views and offers a regular tour and, by appointment only, a behind the scenes tour.
An hour’s journey north west of Aberdeen will bring you to Ardmore Distillery, where a peaty, Highland single malt is produced. Tours are by appointment only and must be arranged in advance.
This small but perfectly formed distillery, which produces the anCnoc single malt whisky, is open to visitors by appointment only. You’ll find it in the tiny village of Knock, 50 miles north west of Aberdeen.
Have you been on a great whisky tour? Or does your favourite whisky come from Aberdeenshire? Let us know and join in the conversation!
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