Excursion Glen garioch distillery tour at Aberdeen

Explore the history and flavours of Aberdeen during this scenic and informative, half-day excursion to the Glen Garioch Distillery.

Aberdeen, Garioch Countryside and Valley, Oldmeldrum, Glen Garioch Distillery

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 50-minute drive through the stunning Scottish countryside of Garioch, (pronounced 'Geery') to Oldmeldrum, a traditional, rural market town dating back to the 9th century. Upon arrival, head to the Glen Garioch Distillery, nested in the sheltered heart of the Garioch Valley. Traditionally the finest barley-growing area of Scotland due to its mild climate, abundant sunshine and not too much rain, the Garioch Valley was once home to no fewer than six distilleries. Today, this valley cradles just one, which bears its name and dates back over 200 years. The renowned Glen Garioch Distillery has changed hands several times, and the current owners have had the distillery in their family since 1886.

Guided Distillery Tour

Since its inception, the Glen Garioch Distillery has been handcrafting a wide range of single-malt scotch whiskies that have won prestigious awards at international competitions. Glen Garioch malt is a light, clean malt, with spices and peat to give it some body. During your guided tour of the Glen Garioch Distillery, see time-honoured skills at work. Learn about the entire production process, from the malting through the storage of the barrels. Observe the process in operation, smell the wonderful, malt-like aromas and touch the natural ingredients. Production machinery to be seen includes the malt mill, which grinds the malt to a coarse grist powder, and the mash tubs.

Warehouse, Visitor's Centre, Whisky-Tasting, Gift Shop

Next, visit the warehouse, where 55-gallon casks are stored for a minimum of three years for blended whiskeys, and over eight years for malt whisky. Following your tour, proceed to the Visitor's Centre to sample Glen Garioch's award-winning Highland Single-Malt Whisky. Afterward, some free time is made available to browse the Gift Shop. Here, you can purchase bottles of blended and malt whiskies, including 10- and 15-year-old malts, and a tempting, 21-year-old whisky for connoisseurs. A wide range of other gifts is also available for sale. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 50-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Aberdeen, Oldmeldrum, Garioch Countryside and Valley, Glen Garioch Distillery, Guided Tour and Tasting, Gift Shop

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the distillery. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket or coat from the ship. Guests must be at least 21 years old to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.