Highland region

SCOTLAND and its whisky are intertwined in a beautiful, centuries-long embrace. Nothing captures the beauty of the land and the skill of its people like the drink that traces its very name to the Gaelic uisge beatha – water of life.

Scotch whisky is a feast for all the senses: First the ears pick up the gentle splash of the drink entering the glass, an echo of the glittering burns which gave the spirit birth.

then the eyes feast on its delicate golden hues as the light dances through.

the nose registers the bouquet – whisky is redolent of where it comes from. You can sense wild moorland and craggy mountains or soft rolling hills or beaches where the sea washes endless.

And at last, the taste, so complex and yet so simple to enjoy, whether your fancy runs to a classic single malt or a skilful blend.

From the source of the water to the shape of the still, a distillery tour will help to explain what makes every Scotch whisky different. No two distilleries are the same. Each has a unique setting and story, as well as a distinctive way of doing things.

Visiting a distillery allows you to indulge your passion for Scotch and, at the same time, discover the environment and meet the people that have done so much to shape that instantly recognisable taste.

Many distilleries welcome visits by members of the public. It is often necessary to make arrangements in advance, but many distilleries have extensive visitor facilities.

Scotch whisky is made only from barley and other cereals, water and yeast. It can only be called Scotch if distilled and matured in Scotland. It takes nothing from nature which nature will not replace. It is a natural drink, a distillation of the riches with which Scotland is so abundantly endowed – golden barley, water tumbling down glens and over moors of peat; and cool pure Scottish air. Scotch whisky is classified in one of five main categories – single malt Scotch whisky, single grain Scotch whisky, blended Scotch whisky, blended malt Scotch whisky and blended grain Scotch whisky. You’re sure to find one that’s to your taste and a visit to its source will make for a memorable experience.