The first stop on the Scottish Whisky Trail is Benromach Distillery located in Speyside. This is the smallest working distillery in Scotland and was founded in 1898. This distillery has changed owners over the years and is now in the hands of Gordon & MacPhail. Officially opened in 1999 by the Prince of Wales, it is open to visitors where you can watch a video about the history of distilling, see how the malt whisky is made and take a tour of the premises. There is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs. The Cardhu Distillery is the only one along the Scottish Whisky Trail that was started by a woman. The whisky produced here goes through a slow method of production giving it its renowned silky taste. You can see the oak casks where the whisky matures for 12 years to give it a sensuous flavour. Wander through the Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery. This was the last whisky distillery built in the 19th century. There is an audio tour available in several languages because tourists from all over the world take the Scottish Whisky Trail. You can taste the fine whisky and even have a picnic on the grounds. If you travel by bus, the bus stop to Forres Station is only a mile from the distillery.
The Glenfiddich Distillery is the next stop on the Whisky Trail. This is only one of a few distilleries in Scotland that is still owned by the founding family. There are free guided tours and an extensive gift shop at this site. On the guided tour of the Glen Grant distillery, you will learn about the man for whom this distillery is named – Major James Grant. In addition to the distilling production, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens with a heather thatched dram pavilion and a waterfall. The Glenlivet Distillery was founded in 1824 and still produces the famous Scotch Malt Whisky. You are treated to a complimentary drink and an interactive presentation when you tour this facility. Glen Moray is located on the banks on the scenic River Lossie. Established in 1897, it still uses the age-old distilling techniques under the guidance of specialized craftspeople. These experts guide you through the distillery giving you all the information you need.
The last stop on the trail is the Strathisla Distillery, the oldest working distillery in Scotland. The pace here is unhurried as you enjoy a drink and watch the craftsmen at work. Another stop on the tour is at the Speyside Cooperage, where you can see how the oak casks and barrels are repaired. It is best if you visit this site while you are in Speyside, because by the end of the trail, you may not be able to see very well. It is recommended that you take a bus for your tour so that you won’t run the danger of being picked up for impaired driving.
