The Whisky and Gin Lover’s Guide to Scotland

A comprehensive guide to Scotland’s whisky and gin distilleries, exploring history, regional flavors, tours, traditions, and iconic spirits.

Thousands of visitors every year head for Scotch Whisky and Gin distilleries to explore the varying tastes, experiences and regional differences that make this industry so special. Whisky is Scotland’s national drink and its biggest export. With over 240 distilleries spread across the entire length and breadth of Scotland, there is plenty of choice. The distilleries are listed by traditional regions: Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside. Each distillery listing contains details of its background, history and type of whisky or gin produced on site and any other distilleries within the immediate area. Information is also provided on visitor facilities which can range from guided tours to sampling, onsite bars, cafes and gift shops.

The book is more than just a guidebook as it sets out to provide an informative and entertaining introduction to visiting Scotch distilleries. Discover the history and stories of these spirits such as Biawa, the distillery ghost, links with James Bond, Old Tom, smugglers, anatomists and iconic films. There are unique traditions such as Burns Night and the Quaich, annual festivals to attend, and even hotels linked specifically to whisky and gin. Find out how and why regional spirits differ in taste, why Campbeltown whiskies are so different to those of Speyside, and how gin and whisky are produced. Ever wondered what is the Angel’s share or why whisky is sometimes referred to as whiskey? How does a mixer affect the taste? Explore the stories behind iconic whisky’s like Macallan or Johnnie Walker, and find ghost distilleries that have reopened.