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The Land of Scotch
November 3rd, 2009

These days, wine tours are offered in virtually every corner of the world – from the traditional vineyards of Napa, Italy and France to more recently recognized world players such as Chile, New Zealand and South Africa.

Scotch distilleries, on the other hand, can be found in just one place. For years, lovers of this malt liquor have been traveling to scotch for a closer look (and sip!). Over the past three years, Scotland’s distilleries have seen a 2.6 percent increase in visitors and a 17.8 percent increase in money spent at whisky attractions throughout the country. Clearly, in a difficult economy, these distilleries are doing something right!

For whisky-seeking travelers, there are three major regions to consider: Highland, Speyside and Islay. Two smaller regions (in the number of active distilleries) include Lowland and Campletown, which only have three active distilleries each.

Highland: As it sounds, this is one of the more northern regions of Scotland. Some of their distilleries include Aberfeldy, Balbair, Dalmore, Glen Ord, Glenmorangie – one of the more famous of Highland distilleries and Oban.

“The Islands” is a category often included as part of Highland and includes all of the scotch-producing islands other than Islay. Some of the most familiar are Arran, Mull, Jura, Orkney and Sky.

Speyside arguably produces some of the country’s best scotch. Balvenie and Macallan, along with recognized names such as Glenfiddich, Glenlivit and Aberlour are produced in Speyside. This region is north of Highland and although known for it’s whiskey, there are also some good walks/hikes to be found in Speyside.

Islay – This region now has nine active distilleries, with the most recent, Kilchoman, just beginning to sell in September 2009. Along with its newest addition , Islay distilleries include Bowmore, Lagavulin, Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Bruichladdich, Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain. The island is largely composed of peat and it’s scotches are among the strongest flavors of all malt whiskeys, a feature that either endears or averts their drinkers.

Lowland – Though the region once had 180 distilleries, only three active remain – Auchentoshan, Bladnoch and Glenkichie. The products here offer little flavor of peat and smoke and instead are dry and light.

Campletown – As with Lowland, the number of regions here has shrunk over time, as it once had 30 active distilleries. Now, the three that remain are Glen Scotia, Glengyle and Springbank – the most awarded whiskey in the world! Unlike Lowland, the products of Campletown tend to taste of peat and salt.

Scotch tours can be taken as a guided group tour or a personalized private tour. The best way to find the tour that fits what you are looking for is to work with a travel planner to examine all of the options available, including customizing a tour for you.