Mastering the Malt in Inverness

Scotch Whisky: The Kingsmills Guide

It’s no secret that Scotch whisky is a proud, age-old tradition. From making it to drinking it, whisky is what we Scots do best. As one of the biggest whisky producers in the world, Scotland has five distinct whisky regions. Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside. Where it’s made effects how it tastes. From the source of the water to the presence of peat, each region’s whisky has its own unique characteristics and flavours. So let’s take a look at our closest whisky regions and some local whiskies, which you can try during a stay at The Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness …

A Taste of The Highlands

The Highlands is by far the biggest Scotch whisky region geographically. And it’s home to some of the most remote distilleries in the country. With distilleries spread far and wide, it has the greatest variety of robust flavours. From Talisker in the west and Glenglassaugh in the east, to Glenmorangie and Old Pulteney in the north and Tomatin and Glen Ord right here in Inverness. The Highlands has the perfect blend of nutty, honey, heather and peaty notes. Find out more about local Inverness distillery tours.

Whisky barrels maturing in a cellar
Scotch whisky is aged in casks, allowing the flavours and aromas to develop.

Brewing on Speyside

Speyside is the biggest region in terms of production. This is where half of all Scottish distilleries are located. Whether you’re a single malt novice or a seasoned connoisseur, a Speyside Whisky Tour is a must for any whisky lover. With over 50 whisky distilleries in the Speyside area. Not to mention some of the best distilleries in the world. Planning the perfect tailor-made, chauffer-driven Speyside whisky tour has never been easier.

Hand holding a whisky glass
Enjoy a Speyside whisky tour and tasting in the Scottish Highlands.

Distilling Excellence with a Dram or Two

The Kingsmills Hotel is nestled between the Highland whisky region and vibrant Speyside area. Which means some of the best whiskies in the world are made right here in the place we call home. Whether you’re looking to venture down the “peaten” track with an Islay whisky or two. Or go back to our whisky roots with a light grassy Lowland blend, there’s something for everyone at our Whisky Bar.

We almost cover the entire alphabet in our extensive list of available whiskies, and you can try them all—possibly not all on the same day, however! Some of the more well-known brand names make an appearance. With no less than six versions of Glenmorangie, six versions of Tomatin (including 14 and 18 years aged) and five versions of Glenfiddich malt (from 12 years aged to thirty years aged). Be sure to try the thirty years aged for the most balanced and flavoursome experience of whisky you will ever come across.

Bottles of whisky behind a bar
Visit the Whisky Bar at the Kingsmills Hotel to sample a vast array of whiskies from around the world.

We are taking requests

Here at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness we want your whisky experience to be the most educational and enjoyable. Therefore, we can arrange a whisky tasting whenever you require. Whether you are visiting as a guest, or you intend to entertain business colleagues, speak to us about our offers and arrange your own private whisky tasting session. Scotch whisky is why many people visit Scotland, and our whisky is truly the best in the world, bar none. So come and enjoy the taste of Scotland with us!