Its as Scottish as Haggis and Kilts. Whisky (no 'e' please, its not Irish) is Scotland's National Drink (sorry Irnbru) and Scotland's Biggest Export. So living right next door to a Distillery and in the Speyside Area, you quickly learn to appreciate the finer arts of making Whisky.
Tormore Distilery - our Neighbour - you can't beat the smell of the mash in the morning!!!
Whilst speyside is arguably the Centre of Scotch Whisky, there are many other parts of the Mainland and Islands that have their own particular specialities. Indeed, according to Wikipedia, there were 134 Distilleries all over Scotland in 2020.
Each Distillery produces its own characteristic Single Malt or Single Grain, which are taken on their own or Blended to give more distinctive tastes and to create some of the familiar High Street Brands. In order to be classed as Scotch whiskey, it needs to be distilled to achieve at least 40% alcohol and matured in Oak Barrels for a minimum of three years.
Glenmorangie Stills
Consequently the art of making Oak Barrels (Cooperage) goes hand in Hand with. If you get the opportunity a Visit to a Cooperage is a good experience, just to see the craftmanship (and speed) involved
Many Distilleries have visitor Tours where you can go and experience the process and then go onto sample the end result, as well as purchase I'm sure! There are even a number of Sites that have camping facilities nearby. Perfect for those who want to indulge and not have to worry about driving.....
Making Scotch Whisky is complex and subject to many difference Variables, if you'd like to know more, then below are some links that can take further into the Scotch whisky world.