When talking about a fine whisky, oftentimes, not always, but a lot of the time, age plays an important part in determining the overall quality of the whisky. The older the whisky is, the nicer it tends to be.
So then, it seems only appropriate that many of the finest whiskies on the market today, come from some of the oldest distilleries in the world. In Scotland, there are currently 29 distilleries over 200 years old, many of which are still producing exceptional whisky and are able to be visited and explored as you see fit.
If you’ve a keen interest in British history, Scotland in general, or whisky, you’ll almost certainly be fascinated by Scotland’s oldest distilleries, and the history surrounding them. To help show you just how important these distilleries are, and what remarkable stories they can tell, in no particular order, here’s a quick look at 4 of the oldest distilleries in Scotland.
First up, we’re heading to the rugged, weatherbeaten coastline of Islay, to visit the Bowmore Distillery.
The Bowmore is more than two centuries old, having been established in 1779. This is the oldest distillery on the island of Islay and is the second-oldest in all of Scotland.
Situated on the picturesque Loch Indaal, the distillery is one of the most popular distilleries in all of Scotland. For whisky-lovers, it’s a haven and is almost synonymous with the Scotch whisky industry. Its white-washed walls really stand out against the backdrop of the coastline and it’s almost considered a criminal offence to visit, and not snap a selfie against the ‘Bowmore’ logo on the side of the distillery.
Bowmore is also home to its No. 1 Vault warehouse, which is believed to be the oldest whisky maturation warehouse in all of Scotland.
Needless to say, the whisky produced here is renowned for its smoky, peaty notes that are synonymous with Islay whisky.
Up next, we’re heading to Speyside, to one of my favourite distilleries, Strathisla.
Established in 1786, the distillery is the oldest in Speyside and is the third-oldest in Scotland. When it was first established however, it was known as Milltown.
Many consider this to be the most picturesque distillery in all of Scotland. It’s elegant, it’s atmospheric, and it’s one of the nicest distilleries you’ll ever visit.
Owned by Chivas Regal, it’s a must-visit distillery for anybody who loves blended Scotch whisky with sweet, smooth, and fruity notes synonymous with the region.
Oban, founded back in 1794/95 is the fifth-oldest distillery in Scotland and is one of the most popular in the West Highlands.
The distillery immediately stands out due to its architecture and design which features slate-grey bricks as opposed to the traditional whitewashed walls we’ve come to expect from whisky distilleries.
While it may be one of the oldest in Scotland, it’s also one of the smallest, producing just 800,000 litres per year. Don’t let that fool you however, as it is owned by drinks giant Diageo. It’s visitor centre in particular, is a big hit and is well worth checking out.
The whisky produced here is truly exceptional and is particularly popular amongst independent bottlers, such as ourselves.
And finally, we have the oldest distillery in all of Scotland, Glenturret, which was established all the way back in 1763, where it was originally known as Thurot.
Another Highland staple, if you were to envision a whisky distillery in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, this is what you’d think of.
Glenturret distillery sees thousands of visitors every single year and is easily one of the most picturesque locations to enjoy a wee dram or two. The Glenturret Distillery is famous for many whiskies, including once being the spiritual home of Famous Grouse, one of the most popular blended Scotch whiskies on the planet.
Today however, they’re best known for more premium quality drams, including their 10 Years Old Peat Smoked expression, which combines smoky peat with crisp orchard fruits, citrus fruits, vanilla, and a suggestion of sea salt.
If you’d like to learn more about your favourite whiskies, or treat yourself to a wee dram or two at the same time, head on over to GreatDrams.com and take a look at what we have to offer.
With an impressive selection of limited-edition, rare, and award-winning whisky, as well as heaps of whisky info on our blog, it’s the perfect spot for any whisky lovers out there.
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