Guide to the "Secret Malts" of Aberdeenshire

Scotland's national drink is a ‘Scotch Whisky’ which is a malt or grain whisky made here in Scotland. Every whisky is different, each with its own unique qualities, taste and smell. 

In Aberdeenshire, we call whisky  “our water of life” and we have eight distilleries lovingly producing our whisky, seven of which you can visit. These whisky distilleries are known collectively as the “Secret Malts” of Aberdeenshire. We’re exploring the history behind these distilleries and showing you what you’ve got to look forward to on your tour.

 

Ardmore

Since its birth in 1898, Ardmore Distillery, in Kennethmont near Huntly, has drawn its water from the naturally rising springs on Knockandy Hill. Recognisable by the majestic golden eagle gliding above the distillery – you’ll be sure to feel your spirits soar with Ardmore.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BHjadOtDPnk/?taken-at=417676779

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgHfO4WgeW0/?taken-at=417676779

 

Fettercairn

Situated within the picturesque town of the same name, Fettercairn Distillery is one of the oldest licensed Highland distilleries in Scotland. Take a tour and watch as some of the finest malt whisky is created.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgJ-DrwF1H8/?taken-at=20662566

https://www.instagram.com/p/BAJbYt-j8Jj/?taken-at=20662566

 

GlenDronach

Nestled amongst outstanding scenery, The GlenDronach Distillery has been creating the finest sherried single malts for nearly 200 years. With guided tours available year round you can unravel the mysteries of the tradition in this unique distillery.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bluu4aXFEZf/?taken-by=visitabdn

 https://www.instagram.com/p/BisDdkpFf6X/?taken-at=256435737

 

Glen Garioch

Glen Garioch is Scotland’s most easterly distillery only 30 minutes drive from Aberdeen. Glen Garioch is a rare find, a hearty Highland malt with a delicious creamy texture. Open all year round, the distillery offers guided tours and private tastings. A must-see stop on the agenda for whisky lovers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BZ8raAtHUn4/?taken-at=262350775

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfwEFtWnwgv/?taken-by=spicymoira

 

Glenglassaugh

At the east end of the beautiful Sandend Bay, you will find Glenglassaugh Distillery. Produced using the highest quality of Scottish barley and traditional distilling methods, only the finest casks are selected to slowly mature until ready to be savoured.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkYAZg4lVT0/?taken-at=1033757968

https://www.instagram.com/p/BhLwrYhnvq3/?taken-at=1033757968

 

Knockdu

Located on the boundary of Aberdeenshire is Knockdhu Distillery. Created using traditional production methods with a refreshingly modern twist, anCnoc offer a range of whiskies. Don’t forget to take a wander through the picturesque village of Knock on your trip too.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUj7rCulzW7/?taken-at=263225580

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMEvzt7AKz-/?taken-at=263225580 

Royal Lochnagar

Royal Lochnagar Distillery originally opened as Lochnagar Distillery in 1845 by John Begg. Begg invited Queen Victoria and her family to visit the distillery in 1848. Two days after the visit, Begg was awarded a Royal Warrant and the distillery gained its name as we know today. With a selection of tours available make sure to stop by and watch as the team of operators tend to the traditional mashtun, gleaming copper stills and fill casks.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba-A9lsDP80/?taken-at=433362474

https://www.instagram.com/p/BaCxOXhnlW-/?taken-at=433362474

 

Learn more about our Whisky and be inspired to visit our distilleries here.

Keep scrolling for map view

Find the distilleries


Tip: Zoom for all locations