If you’re heading toward the Scottish Highlands and have a taste for whisky, this tour offers a genuine peek behind the scenes of whisky production at The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery. For $339 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 to 3 hours exploring the process from malted barley to mature cask, with plenty of tasting opportunities along the way.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to visit the traditional bonded warehouse, where over 3,000 casks rest in silence, slowly developing their character. Second, the chance to draw your own cask sample is rare and adds a personalized touch that many whisky tours can’t match. We appreciate how the guide explains the craft in clear, engaging language, making the technical details accessible even if you’re new to whisky.
A potential consideration is the location—public transport options are limited. While it’s a short 30-minute drive from Inverness, arriving without a car might require extra planning. Also, the tour involves walking on open grate floors, which might not suit those afraid of heights or with mobility issues.
This tour suits whisky enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting an authentic experience, and those eager to understand the art of whisky-making in a relaxed yet informative setting.
Key Points
- Authentic process: Learn how whisky is made, from malt to cask, with a knowledgeable guide.
- Unique sampling: Draw your own cask sample and enjoy a tutored tasting of rare Singleton whiskies.
- Traditional warehouse: Visit the bonded warehouse, where casks age slowly, creating complex flavors.
- Personalized experience: The opportunity to taste rare expressions and discuss them with experts.
- Limited transport options: Best suited for those prepared for a short drive or with a car.
- Age restrictions: Not suitable for travelers under 18, and some parts may not be suitable if height or walking is an issue.
An In-Depth Look at the Whisky Tour
If you’re traveling near Inverness and want a deep dive into whisky craftsmanship, this tour at The Singleton of Glen Ord distillery delivers a satisfying mix of education and tasting. The experience lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a comprehensive look at what makes Scottish whisky so special.
Planning more time in Muir Of Ord? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Journey Begins: Maltings and the Distillery
Your journey starts with a visit to the on-site drum maltings, where you’ll see the traditional method of malting barley. The guide, whose name is often mentioned as engaging and clear, explains how the process influences flavor development. Witnessing the malted barley being crafted on-site is a rare treat—most distilleries now rely on suppliers, so seeing it done in-house adds authenticity.
Next, you’ll step into the striking distillery, where giant copper stills and tanks work in silence. The guide shares stories about the slow craft of distillation, emphasizing patience and precision. You’ll learn why distillation time and temperature matter, and how they affect the final taste.
The Bonded Warehouse: Where Casks Mature
Perhaps the most intriguing part of the tour is visiting the traditional bonded warehouse, where over 3,000 casks are maturing in silence. This massive, slightly musty space is a haven of oak, time, and patience. You’ll get the chance to draw your own cask sample, an experience that not many tours offer. This allows you to taste the whisky at a very early stage, giving insight into how flavors develop over years.
One traveler noted, “It’s a rare opportunity to see so many casks aging in one place and to actually draw a sample. It made me feel connected to the process.”
Tasting and Personalization
Back at the tasting room, your guide will lead a tutored tasting of six 15 ml samples from the Singleton range, including some rare expressions. This is an excellent chance to compare different styles and learn to identify unique characteristics—such as peatiness, sweetness, and oak influence.
Many reviews highlight the quality of these tastings. One guest remarked, “The guided tasting made me appreciate the complexity behind each bottle. It felt very personalized and educational.”
More Great Tours NearbyThe Bar and Retail Experience
After the tour, most visitors find time to relax at the on-site bar, where you can enjoy a dram or cocktail. The bar’s setting offers a relaxing spot to unwind and process what you’ve learned, with views of the distillery grounds. The retail shop offers a selection of bottles to take home, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Practical Details
- Price: $339 per person, which might seem steep, but considering the personalized sampling, drawing your own cask, and exclusive tastings, it offers good value for those genuinely interested in whisky.
- Transportation: Start at the distillery, about a 30-minute drive northwest from Inverness. Public transport is available via a bus or train to Muir of Ord, then a 15-minute walk. For convenience, a car is recommended.
- Group Size: Usually small groups, making for a more personal experience.
- Age Restrictions: Guests must be over 18, and some parts of the tour may involve walking on open grates, so be prepared.
- Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 2 days in advance, offering flexibility for travelers.
Why This Tour Works
For travelers who value authenticity and craftsmanship, this tour provides a rare, hands-on look at whisky production. Educators and guides are praised for their clear explanations and friendly manner, making complex processes approachable. The opportunity to draw your own sample adds a memorable and unique touch, especially for those keen to see whisky maturing firsthand.
The tutored tastings are thoughtfully curated, giving you a chance to taste some rare and exclusive expressions. The relaxed setting at the bar, with scenic views, makes it easy to savor each sip and reflect on what you’ve learned.
However, if you prefer a more mobile or flexible experience, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The limited public transport and walking on open floors are considerations.
Who Should Consider This Experience
This tour is ideal for whisky lovers, especially those curious about the art of distillation and maturation. It’s also perfect for visitors who want a personalized tasting and an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Scottish whisky craftsmanship. If you’re interested in rare expressions and want to understand what makes Singleton whiskies unique, this experience offers excellent value.
Travelers with a genuine interest in the process behind the bottle will find this tour engaging and informative. It’s a solid choice for those willing to invest in a premium experience that combines education, tasting, and a sense of connection to tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are clear and approachable, making it a good choice whether you’re new to whisky or a seasoned enthusiast.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including the tasting and sampling opportunities.
Can I draw my own cask sample?
Yes, one of the highlights is the chance to draw and taste your own cask sample in the bonded warehouse.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, guests must be over 18, and the tour involves tasting alcohol.
What should I wear?
Warm clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially for walking through the distillery and warehouse areas.
Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the distillery, which is about a 30-minute drive from Inverness.
What is included in the price?
The tour covers the guided walk, cask sampling, tutored tastings of six Singleton whiskies, and access to the retail shop and bar.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.
The Sum Up
This tour at The Singleton of Glen Ord offers an authentic, detailed look at whisky production in Scotland. It strikes a good balance between education and indulgence, making it ideal for travel enthusiasts eager to step beyond the usual whisky tasting. The chance to see casks maturing and draw your own sample sets it apart from more generic experiences.
While it requires some planning for transportation and involves walking on open floors, the personalized tastings and behind-the-scenes access make it a worthwhile investment for those genuinely interested in whisky craftsmanship.
Ultimately, if you want a meaningful, immersive glimpse into one of Scotland’s most revered distilleries, this tour will not disappoint. It’s best suited for serious whisky fans, curious travelers, or anyone eager to deepen their appreciation for Scotland’s national drink.
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