Visiting Balblair Distillery

Travel Distilled gives the history of Balblair and describes visiting the Balblair Distillery and taking a tour, with full contact details for booking tours.

Nestled in the picturesque Highlands of Scotland, Balblair Distillery is one of the country’s oldest working distilleries, renowned for its exceptional single malt Scotch whisky. Located in the small village of Edderton, near Tain in Ross-shire, Balblair has been crafting whisky since 1790, making it a cornerstone of Scotland’s rich distilling heritage. Its idyllic setting, surrounded by rolling hills and the tranquil waters of the Dornoch Firth, adds to its charm and allure.

History of Balblair

Balblair Distillery was founded by John Ross in 1790, and it has operated almost continuously ever since, with only a brief hiatus during World War II. The distillery’s history is steeped in tradition, and its commitment to quality has remained unchanged for over two centuries.

Balblair is unique in that it releases its whiskies as vintages, meaning each expression is tied to the year it was distilled rather than following a standard age statement. This approach highlights the distinct character of each year’s production, making every bottle a snapshot of time.

In 1996, Balblair was acquired by Inver House Distillers, which has since invested in modernizing the facility while preserving its traditional methods. The distillery continues to use traditional copper pot stills and ages its whisky in high-quality American oak ex-bourbon casks, resulting in a smooth, complex, and elegant spirit.

Visiting Balblair Distillery

Balblair Distillery warmly welcomes visitors, offering guided tours that provide an immersive experience into the art of whisky-making. Tours typically include a walk through the distillery’s historic grounds, an explanation of the distillation process, and a tasting of Balblair’s exquisite single malts. Visitors can also explore the visitor center, which showcases the distillery’s history and craftsmanship.

Due to its popularity, it’s recommended to book tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The distillery also offers exclusive experiences for whisky enthusiasts, including masterclasses and private tastings.

Why Visit Balblair?

Balblair Distillery is more than just a whisky producer; it’s a living piece of Scottish history. Its commitment to tradition, combined with its innovative approach to whisky-making, makes it a must-visit destination for whisky lovers and history buffs alike. Whether you’re savoring a dram of their vintage single malt or soaking in the breathtaking Highland scenery, a visit to Balblair is an unforgettable experience.

Contact Information

Address: Balblair Distillery, Edderton, Tain, Ross-shire, IV19 1LB, Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1862 821273
Website: balblair.com
Facebook: BalblairDistillery
Twitter: @Balblairwhisky

For those seeking a taste of Scotland’s whisky heritage, visiting Balblair Distillery offers a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and hospitality. Slàinte mhath!

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