Glendfiddich

Glenfiddich Distillery

Region
  • Scotland
Awards
  • International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2013, San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Website
  • https://www.glenfiddich.com/
Phone Number
  • +441340820373
Address
  • Dufftown, Keith AB55 4DH, United Kingdom

Glenfiddich Distillery exterior with forest backdrop.

History of Glenfiddich Distillery

  • Founder: William Grant
  • Inception: Summer of 1886
  • Vision: To create the ‘best dram in the valley’

William Grant’s dream to produce the finest whisky in the valley led to the birth of Glenfiddich Distillery in the summer of 1886. With a clear vision and unwavering determination, he embarked on this ambitious journey alongside his family.

The distillery was meticulously constructed by hand, stone by stone, by William and his nine children, symbolizing a family’s dedication to craftsmanship and quality.

A Legacy of Family Ownership and Excellence

  • Family-Owned: A rare distinction in the whisky industry
  • Legacy: Guided by William Grant’s pioneering spirit
  • Accolades: Renowned as the World’s Most Awarded Single Malt* Scotch Whisky

Glenfiddich stands out as one of the few single malt distilleries that remain entirely family-owned. This unique aspect of its heritage ensures that the founder’s passion and pioneering spirit continue to be the driving force behind its operations.

The distillery’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its status as the World’s Most Awarded Single Malt* Scotch Whisky, a testament to William Grant’s original vision and the family’s dedication to maintaining it.

Diverse and Celebrated Whisky Collection

  • Whisky Range: From classic to exclusive editions
  • Special Releases: Limited edition and unique whiskies

The distillery boasts an impressive range of single malt whiskies, each with its unique character and age statement.

The collection includes the Original Twelve, a testament to traditional whisky-making, the Bourbon Barrel Reserve with its unique American twist, the Solera Fifteen renowned for its complexity, the Gran Reserva that exudes luxury, and the exquisite Grand Cru.

Additionally, Glenfiddich is known for its special releases and limited edition whiskies, offering connoisseurs a taste of rare and exceptional drams.

Awards Won by Glenfiddich Distillery

  • San Francisco World Spirits Competition:
    • Glenfiddich 15 Year Old: Won three double-gold medals from 2007 to 2010.
    • Glenfiddich 12, 18, and 21-Year Old: Received high ratings.
  • International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2013:
    • Glenfiddich 40 Year Old: Trophy for Single Malt Cask Strength Whisky and Gold Outstanding medal.
    • Gold Medals: 12 Year Old, 14 Year Old Rich Oak, 15 Year Old, 21 Year Old, 30 Year Old, Malt Master’s Edition.
    • Silver Outstanding Medals: 125, Age of Discovery Red Wine Cask Finish, Ultimate 38 Year Old, Age of Discovery Madeira Cask, Age of Discovery Bourbon Cask, 15 Year Old Distillery Edition, 18 Year Old.
  • Beverage Testing Institute:
    • Glenfiddich 15 Year Old: Scored 91.
  • International Wine & Spirit Competition and International Spirits Challenge:
    • Glenfiddich range: Most awarded single malt Scotch whisky since 2000.

Glenfiddich Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Glenfiddich Distillery, known for its award-winning single malt Scotch whisky, offers a unique and immersive tour experience.

The distillery, one of the few family-owned single malt distilleries, provides visitors with an in-depth look into its rich history, the whisky-making process, and the family of maverick whisky makers behind its success.

Glenfiddich Distillery Tour

  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Features: This tour includes a guided journey through the distillery, offering insights into the history of Glenfiddich and the whisky-making process. It concludes with a tasting of four whiskies from the Glenfiddich collection.
  • Availability: Wednesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM, with the last tour departing at 3:30 PM.
  • Age Restriction: This tour is exclusively for individuals over 18 years of age.
  • Booking and Cancellation: Bookings can be made online, and tours are refundable with 24 hours’ notice.

Glenfiddich Solera: Deconstructed Tour

  • Duration: 2.5 hours
  • Unique Experience: This tour offers an in-depth exploration of the Solera process, a unique method used in crafting the Glenfiddich 15-year-old whisky. Visitors get to visit warehouse 8, where the Solera process takes place.
  • Interactive Element: The tour includes a visit to the Malt Master’s Blending Room, where guests can taste four cask-strength 15-year-old samples and blend their own version of Glenfiddich 15 year old.
  • Souvenir: Participants can bottle a small sample of their creation to take home.
  • Availability: Thursday and Saturday at 2:00 PM.
  • Age Restriction: This tour is also limited to individuals over 18 years of age.

Additional Information

  • Accessibility: The tour route includes multiple sets of steep stairs. However, accommodations for a flat tour route can be made for those with mobility requirements.
  • Distillery Gift Shop: Open 7 days a week from 10:30 AM to 5 PM, offering a range of Glenfiddich whiskies and gifts.

Flask & Barrel Review of Glenfiddich Distillery

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Glenfiddich Distillery and, wow, it was an experience I won’t soon forget. As someone who’s visited quite a few distilleries in my time, I’ve got a pretty good sense of what makes a distillery tour special, and Glenfiddich really delivered.

First things first, the setting of the distillery is just magical. Tucked away in Dufftown, it’s surrounded by the kind of Scottish scenery that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. The distillery itself combines modern touches with its rich history, giving you a sense of being part of something truly timeless.

The tour was fantastic. It struck the perfect balance between informative and entertaining. Our guide was a real pro – knowledgeable, friendly, and had a way of making the complex world of whisky making understandable and engaging. For someone like me, who loves getting into the nitty-gritty of how whisky is made, it was spot on.

And of course, the tasting. Glenfiddich’s range is exceptional, and getting to try some of their finest drams was a treat. Each whisky had its own character, and you could really taste the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. It’s this attention to detail that really sets Glenfiddich apart in the whisky world.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say the gift shop was a tad on the pricey side, but that’s pretty much par for the course with distillery tours. It didn’t detract from the overall experience, which was superb.

In all, I’d give Glenfiddich a 4.7 out of 5. It’s a standout experience for anyone who appreciates good whisky. The combination of stunning scenery, a fascinating tour, and, of course, top-notch whisky makes it a must-visit for collectors and enthusiasts alike. I’m already looking forward to my next visit!

What To Do Nearby Glenfiddich Distillery

  • The Whisky Line – Keith & Dufftown Railway: Just 0.2 km from Glenfiddich, this is a charming choice for a scenic ride. It’s like stepping into a little piece of history​​.
  • Balvenie Castle: Only 0.3 km away, this castle is a must-see. It’s a great spot to soak in some Scottish history and enjoy stunning views​​.
  • The Balvenie Distillery: Sitting 0.4 km from Glenfiddich, it’s a fantastic visit for whisky lovers looking to expand their palate​​.
  • Speyside Tours: At 1.2 km distance, these tours offer a deeper dive into the local whisky culture. It’s a hit with visitors who love to explore​​.
  • Auchindoun Castle: Located 0.7 km away, this castle is a hidden gem, perfect for a quick trip to the past​​.
  • Speyside Cooperage: About 4.4 km from Glenfiddich, it’s where you can witness the art of barrel-making. A unique and enlightening experience​​.
  • The GlenAllachie Distillery: 6 km away, it’s a fantastic spot for exploring more exceptional whisky​​.
  • Aberlour Distillery Brand Home: Situated 6.3 km from Glenfiddich, it offers another excellent whisky experience​​.
  • Strathisla Distillery Home of Chivas: 14.6 km away, it’s a bit of a drive but worth it for the rich history and exquisite drams​​.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Glenfiddich Distillery?

  • Spice of India: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 9-13 Church St, Dufftown, Keith AB55 4AR, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441340820820.
  • Plum Garden: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is The Square, Aberlour AB38 9PX, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441340871617.
  • Toots: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 51 New St, Rothes, Aberlour AB38 7BJ, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441340832200.

What hotels are near Glenfiddich Distillery?

  • The Craigellachie Hotel: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Victoria St, Speyside Way, Craigellachie, Aberlour AB38 9SR, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441340881204.
  • Dowans Hotel & Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Dowans Rd, Aberlour AB38 9LS, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441340871488.
  • The Aberlour Hotel: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 87 High St, Aberlour AB38 9QB, United Kingdom.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441340871287.