Latest news with #TomatinDistillery
Daily Record
23-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Scotland's 10 'must-visit whisky distilleries' as historic coastal spot tops list
Many of the top Scottish distilleries offer tours and tasting experiences. A new list of Scotland's top "must-visit" distilleries has been shared by whisky experts. And the number one spot was awarded to one of the oldest distilleries in the country. Of all of the things Scotland is famous for, whisky may well top the list. The country's many distilleries produce whisky that is enjoyed all around the world. Retailer House of Bruar has published a list of "Scotland's top 10 must-visit whisky distilleries". The roundup features both legendary distilleries and lesser-known spots. Coming in at number one on House of Bruar's list of the best whisky distilleries in Scotland is The Oban Distillery. The distillery is situated in the coastal town of Oban in Argyll and Bute. It is one of the oldest and smallest distilleries in Scotland. Dating back further than Oban itself, it was founded in 1794 by brothers John and Hugh Stevenson. The distillery offers classic tours, with hosts sharing insights into the distillery's history and its unique whisky-making process. It also hosts tutored tasting experiences, in which visitors are talked through four different whiskies. House of Bruar commented: "Oban Distillery is one of Scotland's oldest sources of Single Malt Scotch Whisky, just a short walk from the sea. This coastal distillery is also one of the smallest producers of scotch whisky, with just seven experts crafting each bottle. "Oban whiskies are known for being sweet and moreish—our whisky shop is proud to stock the key malts from the distillery. "Visitors can enjoy a thorough tour of the distillery, including three drams of Oban Whisky. Or, if you're just interested in sampling the goods available, the 'Taste of Oban' experience features a guided tasting session with an expert to help you get the most out of each sip." Elsewhere, coming in at number two on House of Bruar's roundup is Tomatin Distillery in the Highlands village of Tomatin. Dating back to 1897, the distillery's single malt and blended whiskies are made using the soft waters of the Alt-na-Frith. Tomatin Distillery features 12 whisky stills that remain in use to this day. Described by House of Bruar as a "must-visit for whisky geeks", the distillery is also home to a large mash tun that is open for visitors to see inside. In third place on the experts' list is the famous Talisker Distillery on the Isle of Skye. The distillery, which is tucked along the shores of Loch Harport, was founded in 1830. House of Bruar noted Talisker for its breathtaking coastal surroundings, as well as its unique peaty whiskies. The distillery also offers guided tours that provide an interesting insight into traditional whisky-making processes, finishing off with a tasting session. Rounding out the top five on House of Bruar's 10 must-visit whisky distilleries are the Dalwhinnie Distillery in the Cairngorm National Park and Glengoyne Distillery near Glasgow in fourth and fifth place, respectively. The former was noted for its "informative tours", while the latter received praise for its "in-depth, hands-on sessions". Other distilleries to be featured on the experts' list include the Blair Athol Distillery in Pitlochry, the Glenkinchie Distillery in East Lothian, and the Lochranza Distillery on the Isle of Arran. Completing the top 10 are The Glenfiddich Distillery in Speyside and the Clydeside Distillery in Glasgow. Oban Distillery Tomatin Distillery Talisker Distiller Dalwhinnie Distillery Glengoyne Distillery Blair Athol Distillery Glenkinchie Distillery Lochranza (Arran) Distillery The Glenfiddich Distillery Clydeside Distillery
Scotsman
22-05-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
New study reveals Scotland's Top 10 Must-Visit Whisky Distilleries
As brighter weather extends across Scotland's majestic landscapes, there's no better time to enjoy the nation's most famed tipple at one of its iconic distilleries. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... With this in mind, the team at leading luxury Scottish retailer House of Bruar have ranked and revealed the nation's top 10 must-visit whisky distilleries. Using a seedlist of Scotland's most popular distilleries, the team at House of Bruar compiled the top 30 distilleries. Using Google ratings and reviews, this list was condensed to include the 10 best distilleries to visit this summer. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The full report can be accessed here: Whisky Distillery See the distilleries that made it to the top 5 below… Oban Distillery — West Highlands First on the list is the Oban Distillery, located at the base of a cliff overlooking the historic town of Oban. With an average rating of 4.8 across 1,303 reviews, this distillery is a must-see destination renowned for its authentic production process and picturesque location. Oban Distillery is one of Scotland's oldest sources of Single Malt Scotch Whisky, just a short walk from the sea. This coastal distillery is also one of the smallest producers of scotch whisky, with just seven experts crafting each bottle. Visitors can enjoy a thorough tour of the distillery, including three drams of Oban Whisky. Or, if you're just interested in sampling the goods available, the 'Taste of Oban' experience features a guided tasting session with an expert to help you get the most out of each sip. Tomatin Distillery — Inverness Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Next in the ranking is the beautiful Tomatin Distillery, situated in the historic namesake village of Tomatin, just 16 miles south of Inverness. This distillery received a total rating of 4.7 across 1,298 reviews, highlighting the destination's popularity. The village has been a prominent destination for whisky brewing since the 1700s. The distillery was established in 1897 and, after a short period of closure during the early 1900s, saw a boom in popularity following the Second World War. Today, Tomatin Distillery boasts an impressive 12 whisky stills that remain in use at any time. Here, numerous single malts and blended scotch whiskies are produced regularly, many of which can be sampled during your tour. Talisker Distillery — Isle of Skye In third place is Talisker Distillery. Nestled on the rugged Isle of Skye, Talisker Distillery is a testament to maritime whisky heritage. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With a Google rating of 4.2 across 1,222 reviews, visitors praise its dramatic coastal setting and the distinctive, peaty whiskies it produces. Established in 1830, Talisker is the oldest working distillery on Skye, renowned for its rich history and robust flavours. The guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional whisky-making processes, culminating in a tasting session where you can savour the iconic Talisker 10-Year-Old and other fine whiskies. Talisker's unique character and scenic location make it a must-visit for whisky enthusiasts. Dalwhinnie Distillery — Central Highlands In fourth place is Dalwhinnie Distillery, located in the heart of the Central Highlands. It boasts a Google rating of 4.7 from 986 reviews. Known for its smooth and delicate whiskies, Dalwhinnie offers a drink with a view, surrounded by the spectacular Cairngorm Mountains. The distillery is the highest in Scotland, sitting at an astonishing 1164 feet above sea level. Established in 1897, it produces classic Highland single malts characterised by their heather-honeyed sweetness and a hint of peat. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Visitors can explore the distillery through informative tours detailing the unique distillation process and conclude with tastings of the signature Dalwhinnie 15-Year-Old. Its remote, picturesque setting and exceptional whisky make Dalwhinnie a highlight on any whisky trail. Glengoyne Distillery — Southern Highlands Next, in fifth place, is Glengoyne Distillery, a gem in the Southern Highlands with an impressive Google rating of 4.8 across 851 reviews. Located just north of Glasgow, it's known for producing unpeated, sherry-matured whiskies that offer a rich and complex flavour profile. Established in 1833, Glengoyne prides itself on a slow distillation process that enhances the depth of flavour in its whiskies. Uniquely, the distillery produces Highland single malt whisky that is meticulously matured in the Lowlands.
Scotsman
21-05-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Tomatin introduces Double Cask as new retail exclusive single malt whisky
Highland distiller Tomatin Distillery has evolved its off-trade portfolio with the release of a new single malt whisky specially created for mainstream retail. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Available now from Tesco and Amazon, Tomatin Double Cask is matured in ex-bourbon and ex-Oloroso sherry casks, creating a whisky with an accessible and sought-after fruity and malty flavour profile in the distillery's signature style – the latest release from the IWSC's 'Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year 2022'. Bottled at 40% ABV with an RRP of £37, Tomatin Double Cask will be available in 600 Tesco stores throughout the UK. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This exceptional non-age statement single malt whisky presents aromas of vanilla-sweetened baked apples and pears, developing into deeper dark fruit flavours gently balanced with ginger and cinnamon for a sweet and spicy finish. Tomatin's new retail exclusive Double Cask. Presented in a 70cl bottle, Tomatin Double Cask is encased in refreshed outer packaging for the brand, featuring teal blue detailing, which elegantly symbolises the tree rings found in oak – a nod to the distillery's first-class wood policy and commitment to knowing the history of each cask that passes through its warehouses. Tomatin Legacy will remain for sale in independent whisky retailers and online nationwide across the UK. Gordon Hynd, UK sales director at Tomatin, said: 'The release of Tomatin Double Cask via our continued retail partnership with Tesco marks an exciting milestone in the development of our supermarket portfolio. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'This is a welcome addition to our range, which has been developed with the supermarket customer's requirements front of mind – creating a high-quality single malt at an affordable price point. Our refreshed packaging is a nod to the importance of oak in creating our Highland single malt whisky.' With a proud heritage dating back to the 15th century, Tomatin has been a home for the whisky making team's dedicated craftsmen and their families since the distillery was established in 1897. The release of Tomatin's Double Cask supermarket whisky follows a successful 12 months for the distillery, with Tomatin 18 Year Old securing Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), elevating it to Platinum status. Tomatin Double Cask is available from Tesco, priced at £37 RRP for a 70cl bottle. For more information, visit Tomatin Double Cask tasting notes Nose: Aromas of vanilla-sweetened baked apples and pears lead. Palate: Dark fruit flavours, gently balanced with ginger and cinnamon.
Scottish Sun
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Inside Scots hotel where you can stay in Outlander heart-throb's room and take an e-bike ride from your doorstep
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) I'VE visited Inverness many times, but this weekend was full of firsts. I stayed in a hotel room once occupied by Hollywood heartthrob and Outlander star Sam Heughan, zipped through the Highlands on an e-bike, enjoyed a private bagpipe performance and sampled exclusive whiskies at Tomatin Distillery. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 E-bike tour was a highlight 4 The stunning Lochardil House 4 Sam Heughan once stayed in the room It was a trip that turned the familiar into something extraordinary. Our adventure began the moment we checked in at Lochardil House Hotel and were shown to our stunning Garden Wing room. With French doors opening onto a private patio overlooking landscaped gardens, it was the perfect blend of tranquillity and elegance. After settling in, we were off to the hotel's atmospheric garden conservatory restaurant for dinner. For starters, we savoured grilled goat's cheese and a rich pâté, followed by mains that were nothing short of perfection. My husband Stephen couldn't stop raving about the succulent featherblade of beef, while I relished the beautifully prepared trout fillet. Somehow, we even found room for dessert — sticky toffee pudding and ice cream concluded an unforgettable dining experience. Next morning, after fuelling up with a delicious cooked breakfast, we were buzzing with excitement to meet Kev from 42 Cycling, our guide for our very first e-bike adventure. Starting from the doorstep of Lochardil House Hotel, we embarked on a four-hour ride that showed Inverness in a whole new light. Our journey took us to the banks of Loch Ness, before heading to Dores Beach — a serene spot that felt like a hidden treasure. Along the way, we explored the fairytale-like Aldourie Estate. Kev's expert guidance, and the ease of the e-bikes, made the experience perfect. W Edinburgh Crowned Scotland's Hotel of the Year 2025 Optional boat tours and hidden gems added charm to this unforgettable half-day adventure. Kev then impressed us with an impromptu bagpipe performance back at the hotel, which was an absolute treat. Afterwards we rewarded our efforts with a well-deserved glass of wine in the cosy bar before heading to the restaurant for another exceptional meal. This time, Stephen opted for the burger, while I couldn't resist the classic fish and chips — both dishes were spot on and left us thoroughly satisfied. Pleasantly exhausted, we called it an early night, knowing we had an exciting start the next morning: the final highlight of our trip — a tour of the renowned Tomatin Distillery. We were warmly greeted by Ken, our tour guide, whose passion and encyclopaedic knowledge about whisky made him one of the best guides we've ever encountered. Over the course of two hours, he led us on an immersive journey through the whisky-making process. Time seemed to fly by as we soaked up every detail. GO: INVERNESS ROOMS at the 4H Lochardil House start from £159 per night, B&B, two sharing. See The tour reached its pinnacle with a unique tasting experience in the iconic Warehouse 6, where, we savoured the New Make Spirit alongside four exclusive single cask expressions, each poured straight from the cask into our glasses. The atmospheric location added a sense of reverence to the moment. This is where Tomatin's most treasured casks are kept, allowing their rich flavours to develop undisturbed. It was the perfect way to end our weekend in Inverness — a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that mirrored the essence of the Highlands. Inverness has always held a special place in my heart, but this trip elevated my love for the city and its surrounding beauty. From the luxurious comfort of Lochardil House Hotel to the thrill of exploring the Highlands on e- bikes, and the unforgettable moments at Tomatin Distillery, every experience was unique and incredible. Whether you're a seasoned visitor or considering your first trip, Inverness promises something extraordinary for everyone. I'm already looking forward to my next adventure in this enchanting corner of Scotland and hopefully a lot more firsts to follow.
The Herald Scotland
13-05-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Tomatin launches limited edition to celebrate veteran distiller
Over the past 14 years, he has led the distillery to achieve a series of prestigious award wins, including 'Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year' and 'Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year' at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) in 2022. Last year, Tomatin 18 Year Old also secured Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). Read More: As well as Tomatin 18 Year Old, Mr Eunson is responsible for crafting Tomatin's flagship single malt whisky, Legacy, and experimental lightly-peated single malt Cù Bòcan. He also oversaw the relaunch of The Antiquary in summer 2024, revitalising this historic brand with the release of three exceptional age-statement blended whiskies in bold new packaging. He has announced his retirement, and will leave his post at the end of May. To celebrate Graham's remarkable contribution to the Scotch whisky industry, and his enduring legacy at Tomatin Distillery, a limited-edition single malt has been released to commemorate his career. Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition single malt Scotch whisky is limited to only 514 bottles worldwide and is crafted from whisky fully matured in two exceptional casks, each representing a defining chapter in Mr Eunson's career. The first, a refill hogshead filled in 1990, marks the year he first stepped into the whisky industry. The second, a French oak barrique filled in 2011, commemorates the year he joined Tomatin Distillery. Bottled at 56.1% ABV and priced at £150 RRSP, the distillery says Tomatin Legacy Makers - Graham Eunson edition "opens with notes of stewed red fruits, apple crumble and strawberries and cream, leading into layers of dried mango, banana and papaya on the palate and a medium, drying yet fruity finish". Graham Eunson of Tomatin (Image: Tomatin) Mr Eunson, master distiller and distillery operations director at Tomatin, said: 'Tomatin is an exceptional distillery, and my time working here is one of the high points of my career. I joined Tomatin with the idea that we are all just custodians, and with one goal – to leave the distillery in a better place than I found it. "Through enhanced systems and improved approaches, there is definitely more consistency now. Our first-class wood policy, which is built on knowing as much as we can about the history of a cask before it is filled, is an example of this. 'I'd like to think the legacy I've left is a top-notch whisky which can be enjoyed around the world in the future. I'm also proud of the fact that both of my children, Scott and Kirstie, work in the industry as well, which is fantastic to see.' Scott Adamson, Blender and Global Brand Ambassador at Tomatin, said: 'Working with Graham over the years has been an absolute privilege. His skill, commitment and knowledge are second to none, and he has made a remarkable contribution not only to Tomatin, but to the whisky industry as a whole. 'The release of Tomatin Legacy Makers - Graham Eunson edition is a celebration of his life's work. More than a tribute, this whisky is Graham's legacy in liquid form. He will be greatly missed at the distillery, and we wish him a long and happy retirement.' Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition is available to purchase now from the distillery website and from select independent whisky retailers.
