Edinburgh’s best distilleries, one dram at a time

Whisky is woven as deeply into Scottish culture as the threads of its tartan. Its Gaelic name, uisge beatha, translates to “water of life” in a fitting tribute to the enduring appeal of Scotland’s national spirit. In the capital, the history of this ‘golden nectar’ stretches back over 500 years, when the Incorporation of Barbers and Surgeons of Edinburgh were first granted exclusive distilling rights by James VI in 1505. By 1777, at least eight licensed distilleries were operating in the city.

To visit Scotland without sampling its whisky is to miss out on a defining feature of its heritage. From historic distilleries to the contemporary innovators bringing fresh perspectives to the craft, for guests of The Balmoral, the city’s whisky scene is waiting to be explored. Here’s where to start…

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Along the historic Royal Mile, The Scotch Whisky Experience has been captivating visitors for over 35 years with immersive tours, tastings, and a deep dive into the world of whisky. Home to more than 3,300 bottles, the amber glow of its impressive collection vault alone is worth a visit. Choose from a range of experiences, from guided tastings to food pairings, and discover what makes Scotch truly special.

Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Johnnie Walker Princes Street offers something for every kind of whisky enthusiast, bringing one of Scotland’s best-known brands to life through signature tasting experiences and expertly crafted cocktails at the 1820 Rooftop Bar, with unbeatable views of Edinburgh’s skyline. For a special souvenir, there’s also an opportunity to shop rare and limited edition bottles, alongside exclusive collaborations.

Holyrood Distillery

A modern addition to Edinburgh’s whisky scene, Holyrood Distillery opened in 2019, breathing new life into the city’s legacy of distilling. Located in the historic Old Town, it blends tradition with innovation, crafting both whisky and gin that reflect Scotland’s evolving tastes. Embark on a tour to explore the meticulous production process and sample their award-winning spirits.

Edinburgh Gin

While whisky reigns supreme, Scotland’s gin renaissance is equally impressive. Just minutes from Waverley Station, Edinburgh Gin Distillery is a must-visit for those keen to explore the city’s long-standing distilling tradition beyond whisky. With guided tastings, cocktail masterclasses, and even chocolate pairings, there’s an experience to suit every palate.

The Port of Leith Distillery

A strikingly modern take on whisky-making, The Port of Leith Distillery is the UK’s first vertical distillery. Located by the historic waterfront, its multi-level tours offer a unique perspective on whisky production. To round off the experience, ascend to the eighth floor and visit the distillery bar, enjoying a dram or two with panoramic views of the port.

The perfect chaser: A nightcap at SCOTCH

After a day of exploration, what better way to round off your journey than with a perfectly poured dram at SCOTCH, The Balmoral’s destination whisky bar with over 500 varieties and a choice of guided whisky experiences. Sink into the comfort of a tweed armchair and raise a toast to Scotland’s rich distilling heritage. Slàinte!