Glen Turner Distillery
History of Glen Turner Distillery
The Glen Turner Company, established in 1981 by the French group La Martiniquaise, oversees its Scotch whisky operations. Initially managing the production and marketing of Label 5 blend, one of the world’s biggest selling blended Scotch whiskies, the company has expanded significantly.
It now operates the Glen Moray single malt distillery in Elgin, the Starlaw grain distillery in Edinburgh, and produces the Sir Edward’s blend and Glen Turner vatted and single malt.
Starlaw Distillery, sometimes known as Glen Turner Distillery, is a grain whisky distillery located in Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland. Opened in 2010 and owned by La Martiniquaise, it works alongside Glen Moray Distillery to provide whisky for the company’s Cutty Sark and Label 5 blended Scotch whisky brands.
The distillery, integrated with a vatting, blending, and bottling plant, can produce 25 million liters annually and has 29 ageing warehouses across 75 hectares.
These two entities, under the umbrella of La Martiniquaise, play a crucial role in the production of some of the most popular blended Scotch whiskies, showcasing the diversity and capability of modern Scotch whisky production.
Awards Won by Glen Turner Distillery
- IWSC 2022: Glen Turner Distillery won a Gold medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in 2022.
- World Whiskies Awards 2021: They received a Silver medal at the World Whiskies Awards in 2021.
- CWSA Awards 2019: The distillery was awarded a Gold medal at the China Wine & Spirits Awards in 2019.
- International Spirits Challenge 2019: In the same year, they also secured a Silver medal at the International Spirits Challenge.
- China Wine & Spirits Awards 2017: Glen Turner Distillery earned a Gold medal at the China Wine & Spirits Awards in 2017.
Glen Turner Distillery Tour Information and Experience
The Glen Turner Distillery offers a unique tour experience, showcasing their commitment to preserving traditional methods of whisky-making. Here are some key highlights of the tour:
- Traditional Whisky-Making: The distillery prides itself on crafting whiskies by hand and heart, adhering to time-honoured methods.
- Comprehensive Tour Experience: Visitors have the opportunity to get up close to each stage of the whisky-making process, from production areas to final product.
- Tour Booking: A range of guided tours and tastings are available. It’s recommended to book in advance through their online platform. Note that while children and infants can join The Glenturret Tour for free, other distillery experiences are limited to individuals over 18 years.
- Accessibility: The distillery is wheelchair-friendly, offering disabled parking, lifts to the café and restaurant, and an adapted route for tours and tastings.
- Parking Facilities: Visitor parking, including disabled parking and electric car parking bays, is available free of charge. There’s also an overflow car park for coaches, caravans, or campervans.
Flask & Barrel Review of Glen Turner Distillery
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Glen Turner Distillery, and let me tell you, it was a remarkable experience that truly stood out in my long history of distillery tours.
As someone who passionately collects and appreciates whiskey, I’ve seen my fair share of distilleries, but Glen Turner has a unique charm that deserves a shout-out.
From the get-go, the traditional methods they use to craft their whiskies resonated with me. It’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about pouring heart and soul into every bottle. Seeing the dedication to handcrafted whiskey was like witnessing art in motion.
The tour took me through each stage of the process, allowing me to get up close and personal with the art of whiskey-making. It was an educational journey that deepened my appreciation for the craft.
Booking the tour was a breeze, and I appreciate how they cater to a mature audience, keeping the experience focused and authentic. Their commitment to accessibility also caught my eye, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of whiskey-making, regardless of mobility challenges.
The only tiny snag – and I’m nitpicking here – was that I found myself wishing for a bit more variety in the tasting session. Don’t get me wrong, the whiskies I sampled were top-notch, but as a collector, I’m always eager to explore a broader spectrum of flavors.
In terms of facilities, the parking was a breeze, and the overall ambiance of the place was welcoming and warm. It felt like a true Scottish whiskey experience, steeped in tradition yet embracing the modern visitor.
In conclusion, Glen Turner Distillery is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life, especially a well-crafted whiskey. It’s a solid 4.7 out of 5 for me.
I’ll definitely be back, and I recommend it to any fellow whiskey enthusiasts out there. Cheers to Glen Turner for an unforgettable experience!
What To Do Nearby Glen Turner Distillery
- MacRosty Park (1.18km away): A beautiful park featuring woodlands, a Victorian bandstand, and an impressive collection of mature trees.
- Loch Monzievaird (1.86km away): A popular holiday destination in Perthshire, within easy reach of major Scottish cities.
- Drummond Castle Gardens (5.53km away): One of Europe’s most significant formal gardens, dating back to the 17th century.
- Loch Turret Reservoir (6.8km away): A large freshwater reservoir, popular for walking.
- Innerpeffray Library (6.82km away): Scotland’s first free public lending library, founded around 1680.
- Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre (7.99km away): Set in 100 acres of Perthshire scenery, ideal for a family day out.
- Ben Chonzie (11.17km away): A Munro offering expansive views of the surrounding moorland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Glen Turner Distillery?
- Tony Macaroni: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is The Hub, Almondvale Cres, Livingston EH54 6QX, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441506410505.
- The Boulevard: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Almondvale Pkwy, Livingston EH54 6QT, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441506371365.
- Nando’s Livingston: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Phase 3, The Centre, Almondvale Blvd, Livingston EH54 6HR, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441506444497.
What hotels are near Glen Turner Distillery?
- Premier Inn Livingston (M8, Jct3) hotel: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Deer Park Ave, Deer Park, Deans, Livingston EH54 8AD, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +443333211238.
- Travelodge Livingston: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is The Hub, Almondvale Cres, Livingston EH54 6QX, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +448719846288.
- Chain Runner by Marston’s Inns: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Almondvale Way, Livingston EH54 6GA, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441902916907.