Glen Moray

Glen Moray Distillery

Region
  • Scotland
Awards
  • Bronze Award: Glen Garioch 1999 Wine Cask Matured, Gold Award: Glen Garioch 17 Year Old The Renaissance 3rd Chapter, Silver Award: Glen Garioch Minnesota 2012
Website
  • https://www.glenmoray.com/
Phone Number
  • +441343550900
Address
  • Glen Moray Distillery, Bruceland Road, Elgin IV30 1YE

Traditional distillery building with visible copper stills.

History of Glen Moray Distillery

 

The Glen Moray Distillery, with a history spanning over 120 years, has its roots in the Elgin West Brewery, established in 1830. It transformed into a whisky distillery on September 13, 1897.

Initially, the distillery used local barley and a variety of casks, including Marsala wine and sherry casks. Post-World War I, it was acquired by Macdonald & Muir, a wine and spirits merchant.

Growth and Development

Significant developments occurred in the 1950s, including the purchase of Gallowcrook Farm, which supplied barley for Glen Moray’s first batch.

The distillery upgraded from coal to oil, added new copper stills and modern malting facilities, doubling its output.

By 1987, production increased to seven days a week, reaching two million liters of spirit annually.

Innovation at Glen Moray Distillery

In 1999, Glen Moray introduced its first wood-finished whiskies, including Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc cask finishes. This innovation continued with the Classic Collection in 2014, featuring a range of cask finishes and a Peated Single Malt.

The Heritage Collection, launched in 2016, included aged single malts like the 12 Year Old and 18 Year Old, receiving high praise in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.

Further Expansion

The distillery further expanded its offerings with the Curiosity Collection in 2018, experimenting with unusual casks like the Rhum Agricole Cask Finish Project. This collection showcases Glen Moray’s commitment to innovation and exploration in whisky crafting.

 

 

Awards Won by Glen Moray Distillery

  • Glen Moray 1994 Sherry Cask Finish won the Best Scotch Speyside Single Cask Single Malt Category for 21 & over at the World Whiskies Awards 2018.
  • The distillery has garnered acclaim through various competitions including the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), International Spirits Challenge (ISC), and the World Whiskies Awards (WWA) among others.
  • The Yellow Edition, Glen Moray 14 years old, part of the Brave New Spirits’ Yellow Edition range, is another distinguished product from the distillery. It has been bottled at 57.2% ABV after maturing in a single first-fill Bourbon barrel, producing a limited quantity of only 141 bottles. This edition is noted for its rich, creamy character with flavors of vanilla and stewed fruits.

Glen Moray Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The Glen Moray Distillery offers an authentic and atmospheric experience for whisky enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy a range of distillery tours and tastings, complemented by a coffee shop and gift shop. The Visitor Centre features a small coffee shop serving light lunches, homemade soups, cakes, and biscuits, perfect for a bite before or after the tour.

During summer, an outside seating area is available where guests can enjoy whisky or beer in the fresh air, and dogs are welcome in this area.

Tour and Tasting Experience:

  • The distillery tours are highly informative, providing insights into the whisky-making process.
  • Knowledgeable guides, like Sophie, offer comprehensive tours and are adept at answering all questions.
  • The tours conclude with a tasting session, where visitors can sample a variety of Glen Moray’s whiskies.

Visitor Centre and Amenities:

  • The Visitor Centre is a cozy spot for guests to relax and enjoy light refreshments.
  • It’s an ideal place to unwind with a tasting after lunch or simply enjoy a cup of coffee.

Opening Hours:

  • May to September: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Closed on Sundays.
  • October to April: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • The Visitor Centre is closed for two weeks during the Christmas and New Year period.

Special Promotion:

  • A promotional offer, using the code FESTIVE20, provides a 20% discount on tours and tastings from November 20 to December 22.

Accessibility:

  • The distillery has an accessibility guide to assist visitors with specific needs.

Flask & Barrel Review of Glen Moray Distillery

As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s seen my fair share of distilleries, I’ve got to say, Glen Moray truly stands out. It’s a solid 4.7 out of 5 in my book.

Their attention to detail in the whiskey-making process is something to marvel at. The 1994 Sherry Cask Finish? Absolute perfection. And the staff? Incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming.

The tour itself was immersive, giving me a real insight into their craft. It’s not just about the tasting, it’s the whole experience. Sure, there’s always room for improvement, but Glen Moray comes pretty darn close to whiskey heaven.

What To Do Nearby Glen Moray Distillery

  • Duke of Gordon’s Monument (1.16km away): A stunning Tuscan column monument, perfect for history buffs. It’s got a spiral staircase leading to the top for some sweet views.
  • Elgin Museum (1.89km away): Scotland’s oldest independent museum. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in fossils, geology, or local history.
  • Elgin Cathedral (2.17km away): Known as the ‘Lantern of the North’, this medieval cathedral is a feast for the eyes.
  • Biblical Garden Elgin (2.23km away): A beautiful, tranquil garden near Elgin Cathedral. It’s a cool spot to chill and soak in nature.
  • Loch Spynie (4.21km away): A small but important wildlife habitat. Great for nature lovers.
  • Spynie Palace (4.59km away): Check out the ruins of this once-thriving medieval town and palace.
  • Duffus Castle (4.99km away): A Norman motte and bailey castle with a rich history. Definitely worth a visit.
  • Millbuies Country Park (6.91km away): Ideal for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting. The rhododendrons and azaleas are a sight in spring.
  • Millbuies Loch (6.92km away): Created for angling, it’s a great spot for a relaxing day and maybe even some fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Glen Moray Distillery?

  • Scribbles: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441343542835. Their address is 152-154 High St, Elgin IV30 1BD, United Kingdom.
  • Pizzeria Toscana: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441343551066. Their address is 20 Thunderton Pl, Elgin IV30 1BG, United Kingdom.
  • Pattaya Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441343551577. Their address is 54 High St, Elgin IV30 1BU, United Kingdom. 

What hotels are near Glen Moray Distillery?

  • Premier Inn Elgin: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 15 Linkwood Way, Elgin IV30 1HY, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +443337777926. 
  • The Mansefield: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Mansefield House Hotel, 2 Mayne Rd, Elgin IV30 1NY, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441343540883. 
  • Sunninghill Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Hay St, Elgin IV30 1NH, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441343547799.