Tomatin Distillery near Inverness

Tomatin Distillery

It is thought that the distillation of whisky has been going on in the Tomatin area since the 1700s. That means there is plenty of expertise in the area to produce some fine tasting whisky! The cow and sheep drovers who took their animals to market would often hold on to a ram’s horn filled with whisky. You know, just to keep them going…! Tomatin Distillery was built in 1897 by businessmen John MacDougall, John MacLeish and Alexander Allan. 

Ever since then, it has produced some of the most delicious Highland scotch malt whisky available. And if you want to see how it’s done, you can visit them for a tour!

Scottish Highland distilleries

The Scottish Highlands is the perfect location for whisky making. From the geology to the way barley is malted, there are so many different flavours to be had. There are 47 distilleries across the Scottish Highlands and Islands, but we have a sweet spot in our hearts for Tomatin. They use water from the nearby Alt-na-Frith burn and when that and soft barley are all combined in their copper stills, something wonderful happens. 

Only 20 minutes south of Inverness, this distillery has charm, beautiful views and friendly staff. You can book in advance to get on a tour, which are held hourly. Here you will see the magic behind the scenes. How is whisky made? What is it like to work in a distillery? And most importantly, what does the whisky taste like?!

This is one of the best Scottish distilleries to visit because of its history. Remarkably, over half of the Tomatin workforce live on-site in specially built accommodation, making it seem like a large family. This Inverness distillery produces delicious whisky.

The Tomatin Brand

Whisky at Tomatin was used for most of its history as just one whisky in a blend. However over the last few years, there has been a conscious effort to grow the Tomatin brand. This has resulted in a range of whisky products with ages going up to 36 years. You will find a wide range of whiskies to buy when you visit their gift shop which also holds Tomatin merchandise for you to peruse too. 

How to get to Tomatin Distillery

If this all sounds like a good day out to you, then getting there shouldn’t be much of a problem. Those with cars can drive the fifteen miles south of Inverness and be there in no time. If you don’t have a car, you can always hire one! They are available from Inverness Airport

Taxis are also a great way to get out of the city. If you would like to book one, please speak to our front desk who will be happy to arrange this for you. 

If you’d like to find out more about other whisky distillery tours and tasting in the area, then you click here to be taken to our things to do pages. There’s so much in the area to please whisky lovers that you could spend days just touring distilleries! 

Enjoy a Whisky Break in Scotland

Inverness is a wonderful base for a whisky break in Scotland. Book a luxury room at the Kingsmills Hotel and explore our local distilleries and whisky tours. Don't forget to visit our very own Whisky Bar, where you can try many whiskies from around the world or enjoy a Whisky Flight experience.

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