Glen Grant Distillery

From the moment it was first created in 1840, the clean distinctive taste and pale gold colour of Glen Grant have set it apart from other single malt Scotch whiskies.

Glen Grant was always the exception among Highland malts with its bright translucent colour, much paler than other malts. A special feature of the distillery is the stunning Victorian wilderness garden, which has been lovingly recreated over the past few years. The garden perfectly captures the bright and sparkling character of the whisky, 'like cut grass after the rain' according to one writer. There is a long tradition in Glen Grant Pure Malt Scotch Whisky.

That's why a visit to the Glen Grant Distillery is such a special experience. Discover the mysteries of malt whisky making and the extraordinary life and times of the distillery's most famous guardian, Major James Grant. Relax and appreciate the subtle flavours of Glen Grant for yourself in Major Grant's Study.

Spirited, fresh and light, the essence of Glen Grant is reflected in the woodland setting of the distillery, where dappled sunlight and pure Highland air and water come together in the enchanting informal garden, carefully restored to its original Victorian glory.

The Making of Glen Grant
Glen Grant is made by local people, using the skills that have been handed down to them through the generations. You'll find they are proud to show you the time honoured methods of fine Scotch whisky making, from the traditional mashing of the barley to the double distillation in the great copper stills and the long patient wait in oak casks.

Distinctly Different
The atmosphere of Major Grant's day has been faithfully recreated in his study. As you sample your dram in these evocative surroundings you'll notice Glen Grant is lighter in colour and flavour than other Highland whiskies with a characteristic fruity finish. Spirited, fresh and light, it has a uniquely bright and crisp quality that has made it an international favourite. It is one of the most widely enjoyed Speyside malts.

Prized by connoisseurs it's a sociable whisky that's equally suitable for formal entertaining or just relaxing with friends. Of course a bottle (or two) of Glen Grant makes an ideal souvenir of your visit and you'll find the Distillery Shop also stocks a wide range of high quality gifts.

A Scotch Whisky Dynasty
Founded in 1840, Glen Grant was one of the first licensed distilleries in the Scottish Highlands. The brothers James and John Grant found the perfect setting close to excellent sources of fine Morayshire barley and soft Highland spring water.

Major James Grant inherited the business from his father in 1872 and by the turn of the century the distillery could boast registration, electric lighting, a hydraulic warehouse lift and its own fire service.

Celebrated in the press for his journeys into the wilderness of India and South Africa, the Major also indulged in a typically Victorian taste for fashionable new plant species, creating a romantic woodland garden. He would reward his guests for an uphill walk through the garden with a dram of Glen Grant from his private whisky safe.

Major Grant's Garden
At one time Glen Grant Garden provided work for no fewer than eleven gardeners. Now the garden can be seen once more in its full splendour, thanks to years of hard work by a dedicated team of restorers.

Inspired by surviving and plants and traces of pathways, the team used turn of the century maps and old photographs to recreate the old woodland walks, the log bridges and Major Grant's Dram Hut.

Gradually the lovely mature orchards and rhododendrons came back into full view and the old lily pond was also restored. The ornamental areas have been replanted with native specimens together with plants from America, China and the Himalayas.

Opening Times
21st March to 28th October
Mon-Sat: 10:30am and 2pm Sun:12:30pm-4pm

Admission
Free

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