Scotch Whisky

Whisky is Scotland's national drink and our biggest export, enjoyed across the globe as well as right here in Scotland. Skilled distillers transform barley and water into a precious spirit, which is tucked away to mature.

Johnnie Walker, Princes Street, Edinburgh

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Whisky facts

Are you a newcomer to the world of whisky? Here's what you need to know.

Lindores Abbey Distillery

© Fife Council/Chris Watt

What is Scotch Whisky?

Scotch whisky is malt whisky or grain whisky that must be made in Scotland in a manner specified by law.

Its divided into five distinct categories:

  • Single malt
  • Single grain
  • Blended malt
  • Blended grain
  • Blended Scotch whisky

Whisky casks at Speyside Cooperage

© VisitScotland / North East 250 / Damian Shields

What is single malt whisky?

  • Comes from a single distillery
  • Made exclusively from malted barley
  • Distilled using pot stills at a single distillery
  • Aged for at least 3 years in oak casks not bigger than 700 litres

What is single grain whisky?

  • Comes from a single distillery
  • Can be made from any cereal grain including small amounts of barley

Find out more about the history of whisky

Scotland's whisky regions & distilleries

Discover Scotland's five whisky regions and distilleries where you can sample their distinctive malts.

Clynelish Distillery

© Clynelish Distillery

Whisky maps

There are over 130 active distilleries in Scotland spread across five whisky regions. Many offer fascinating tours – take the chance to sample the unique flavours and character of different whiskies.

Check out our map of each whisky region to plan your trip.

Whisky trails, tours and events

Uncover the many ways you can enjoy Scotland's whisky with these unique experiences. 

3Days

Car

Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail

Follow this 3-day itinerary around some of Speyside's top whisky attractions in the north east of Scotland.

Whisky tours in Scotland

Book a tour of a whisky distillery, or travel around Scotland visiting several whisky experiences.

What's new in the world of whisky?

For a traditional Scottish drink going back centuries, there's always something new to discover.

Stirling Distillery

Whisky is being produced for the first time in 100 years at Stirling’s first legal distillery.

The Hearach

Sample the long-awaited release of single malt whisky from the Isle of Harris Distillery

Find experiences

Search a wide range of accommodation, events, food & drink options and things to do from indoor and outdoor attractions to activities, tours and more.

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