Elgin’s Whiskey Trail: A Tour of Speyside’s Historic Distilleries (2024)
Excited for Elgin’s Whiskey Distilleries tours? We are as well.
Welcome to Elgin, a charming Scottish town that has been crafting exquisite Whiskey for generations. The whiskey-making heritage of Elgin dates back to the 18th century, making it a true whiskey lover’s paradise. It’s worth noting that Elgin resides in Speyside, a region protected by UK Government legislation for Scotch Whisky production. So, it isn’t Elgin dedicatedly but Speyside that brings the world the best of Whiskey.
DID YOU KNOW? Speyside (the area in Scotland where Elgin is located) is protected under UK Government legislation for Scotch Whisky distilling. The Glenlivet and Glenfiddich, the world’s best-selling single-malt whiskeys, are from Speyside. For Whiskey enthusiasts, it is the most remarkable place on Earth.
Visiting the Whiskey Distilleries In and Around Elgin
Join us in this article as we unfold about the Whiskey Distilleries in Elgin. This guide will take you through the taste of Elgin, Speyside’s rich whiskey history, its warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes. So come along, and let’s explore the world’s finest Whiskey Distilleries in Elgin, Speyside, Scotland.
1. Glen Moray Distillery
Nestled in the heart of Elgin, the Glen Moray Distillery boasts a storied past that goes back to 1897. It is when it transformed from a brewery into a thriving whisky haven. This transformation marked the start of a challenging era for the Scotch industry, yet Glen Moray stood resilient. Today, it stands as the quintessential Speyside distillery and is reached by whiskey enthusiasts from across the world. Glen Moray is known for crafting exquisite single-malt Scotch whisky. The staff works hard and passionately to create the golden elixir, and their dedication and authenticity are what sets them apart.
Glen Moray Distillery welcomes visitors with open arms for a range of experiences. It offers immersive distillery tours and tastings, whether you want to enjoy a drink or peek at those behind the scenes of whiskey making. Their outdoor seating area is loved, especially as the sun graces the sky and the refreshing glass of whisky graces your hand. Enthusiasts can also explore their visitor centres and spend some time at the charming coffee shop. It is all about homemade soups, light lunches, freshly baked cookies, and delectable cakes. The distillery is dog-friendly, too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating.
2. Glenfiddich Distillery
Nestled amidst a picturesque landscape is the iconic Glenfiddich Distillery. It is where winter blankets the hills in a glistening coat of snow, and summer paints the local fields in hues of barley gold. It is where nature and tradition intertwine seamlessly and where the essence of whisky-making comes alive in every season. For whiskey lovers in Elgin, Speyside, there is no better place than Glenfiddich Distillery.
Glenfiddich Distillery was founded back in 1886 by the visionary Wiliam Grant. Since then, after over a century has passed, the distillery has grown into one of the oldest family-owned Scotch whisky distilleries. Nestled in the enchanting Valley of the Deer, it isn’t just a distillery but a piece of Scotland’s rich heritage. Whiskey enthusiasts can enjoy distillery tours, where the art of whisky-making unfolds right before the eyes. Or, sit back and relax while savouring a glass of Whiskey from an exceptional selection. If that’s not enough, their lounge also serves speciality teas, coffees, and homemade cakes. As you step into our Visitor Centre, you’ll be greeted by the warm embrace of the Scottish Highlands. Explore their gift shop, where you can take home a piece of Glenfiddich’s legacy. While Glenfiddich Distillery operates year-round, the winter landscape layered with snow brings the best out of this place. The beauty is worth witnessing.
3. The Macallan Distillery
Nestled in the picturesque village of Craigellachie, Moray, Scotland, Macallan Distillery stands as a testament to the artistry of single-malt Scotch whisky. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Edrington, the brand found its new home in 1999 when it was acquired from Highland Distillers. Macallan is widely recognized as one of the finest single-malt Scotch whiskies. It consistently ranks among the top, competing closely with giants like Glenfiddich. Some whiskey lovers also claim that it can surpass Glenlivet in popularity, though that’s a controversial statement to make.
The Macallan Distillery is just a short 20-minute drive from the charming town of Elgin. It is one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland and boasts a rich history. Lovingly called the Rolls Royce among Malts, Macallan has earned its reputation as one of the most prestigious and sought-after Single Malt Whisky brands worldwide. A visit to this place will take you back into the world of time-honoured tradition and modern innovation altogether. Whiskey enthusiasts can easily try the liquid gold or join guided tours to learn about heritage and craftsmanship. Their exquisite range of whiskies promises uncompromising quality. A visit here is a must, no matter if you are a curious traveller or a whisky connoisseur.
4. Aberlour Distillery
Tucked away in the idyllic town of Aberlour, Strathspey, this one is the best Whiskey Distillery in Elgin. Aberlour Distillery is a true gem in the Speyside single malt Scotch whisky world. Located just 18 miles south of Elgin, Aberlour stands proudly at the confluence of the Lour Burn and the majestic River Spey near the towering Ben Rinnes. As the distillery embodies the essence of tradition and craftsmanship, both locals and tourists come drawn here. The confluence of crystal-clear waters of the Lour Burn and the iconic River Spey gives this place an ideal environment for whiskey production.
Aberlour Distillery promises quality with every single bottle it produces. The distillery is part of a 485-acre estate that spans across the breathtaking Speyside region. As it extends to the banks of River Spey, the allure of whiskey haven is enhanced even more. A visit to this place allows enthusiasts to explore the artistry behind the whisky with guided tours while enjoying the natural beauty. The tour includes a detailed introduction to the selection of the finest ingredients for the ageing of the whisky in oak casks. A visit to this place is truly a journey into the heart of Scotland’s whisky heritage. Sipping a glass of Whiskey here is an experience on its own.
5. Cardhu Distillery
A popular Distillery near Elgin in the Speyside region, Cardhu Distillery is about half an hour’s drive from the city. Operating since 1824, this place is steeped in history and the rich Scotch whisky tradition. Cardhu Distillery was discovered by the spirited whisky smuggler John Cumming and his wife, Helen. Soon enough, it became an iconic name in the world of whisky. To date, it plays an important role in the creation of Johnnie Walker blended whiskies.
A visit to Cardhu distillery in Speyside allows enthusiasts to enjoy captivating whisky tours. This journey takes participants through the annals of long and storied history, explaining all the challenges the founders faced. It was their dedication that made them stand the test of the time. And all thanks to that, Cardhu Distillery today. It is undoubtedly the most special place that contributes to the remarkable complexity and flavour of Johnnie Walker Blends. Visiting Cardhu Distillery is more than just a tour; it’s a chance to step back in time.
6. Strathisla Distillery
Last but not the least on our list is Strathisla Distillery. Established back in 1786, Strathisla Distillery is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands. A testament to its enduring whiskey legacy, the distillery is nearly 17.3 miles from Elgin, nestled within the captivating Speyside region of Scotland. Strathisla Single Malt occupies a special place in the heart of every Chivas Regal blend. The distillery is known for its substantial capacity, which involves producing up to 2,400,000 litres of whisky per annum. Their water source, Broomhill Spring, brings in that pristine water that is essential for exceptional scotch whisky crafting.
The whisky at Strathisla Distillery has a distinct character that contributes to the richness of Chivas Regal’s renowned blends. It isn’t just about whisky, but Strathisla is also one of the most photographed distilleries in all of Scotland. Its charming and picturesque setting seems almost untouched by time. Strathisla began as a local monastery, but later, in 1786, it transformed into the art of whisky-making, and that’s where its remarkable journey began. Today, this Scotch whiskey wonderland stands as the spiritual home of Chivas, where tradition and innovation harmonize. A visit here isn’t just about stepping into a distillery but immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of Scottish whisky culture.
