Glengoyne Distillery
History of Glengoyne Distillery
Founding and Early Years
Glengoyne Distillery, established in 1833, is located at Dumgoyne, north of Glasgow, Scotland. It began as an illicit operation in the early 19th century, amidst heavy taxation on spirit production.
The area’s hills and forests provided cover for distillers, with records indicating at least eighteen illicit stills. Following the Excise Act of 1823, which made legal distilling more accessible, Glengoyne was officially founded.
Originally known as Burnfoot distillery, it was owned by George Connell who built the distillery and leased the surrounding land.
Development and Ownership Changes
In 1876, the distillery was sold to the Lang Brothers of Glasgow. Initially recorded as Glen Guin due to a clerical error, it was later renamed Glengoyne, derived from ‘Glenguin’ or ‘Glen of the Wild Geese’.
The distillery changed hands again in 1965, taken over by the Robertson & Baxter Group, which later became the Edrington Group. In 1966 and 1967, the distillery expanded, increasing its number of stills from two to three.
Royal Recognition and Modern Era
In 1984, Glengoyne became suppliers of whiskies to Queen Elizabeth’s household. The Royal Warrant was later delegated to Ian Macleod, featured on all Glengoyne products.
In April 2003, Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd. acquired Glengoyne, marking a significant increase in both output capacity and sales.
Whiskey Production at Glengoyne Distillery
Glengoyne is unique for producing Highland single malt whisky matured in the Lowlands, due to its location on the Highland Line. It uses Golden Promise barley and sources water from the Glengoyne Burn.
Notably, Glengoyne does not use peat smoke for drying barley, resulting in a clear, bright appearance and a distinctive flavor profile.
Whiskey Ranges
Glengoyne offers a range of single malts aged from 10 to 32 years, with various cask finishes.
The distillery has received numerous awards, including a double gold for its 17-year-old Single Malt at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is marketed primarily in the UK, Scandinavian, French, German, and USA markets.
Awards Won by Glengoyne Distillery
- TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award: This award celebrates attractions that consistently deliver exceptional experiences. Glengoyne Distillery has been recognized with this award, underscoring its appeal as a tourist destination.
- Gold in Green Tourism: Glengoyne Distillery received a Gold accreditation from the Green Tourism Awards, which recognizes high standards of sustainability in tourism.
- San Francisco World Spirits Competition: The distillery has had notable success in this competition. Their Legacy Series won Double Gold, and they have also received accolades for various aged expressions of their single malt whisky. Specifically, their 17-year-old single malt was awarded Double Gold, the 10-year-old and 21-year-old expressions won Gold, and the 12-year-old expression won Double Gold.
- International Spirits Challenge Tourism Award: Glengoyne Distillery won a Gold award in the inaugural event of this challenge, further establishing its reputation in the spirits industry.
- Asian Spirits Master’s Awards: Their 30-year-old expression received the highest accolade, the Master Award. Additionally, the 21-year-old and 25-year-old expressions were awarded Gold.
- Drinks Business Green Awards: The distillery’s commitment to environmental sustainability was recognized with the Amorim Sustainability Award for Spirits.
- Stockholm Beer and Whisky Festival: The 15-year-old Scottish Oak wood expression from Glengoyne won Gold for the “best wood finish” at this festival.
Glengoyne Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Malt Master Experience
- Duration & Price: 90 minutes, £90.00 per person
- Details: An in-depth tour led by Distillery Ambassadors, offering extensive knowledge of the Glengoyne process. The highlight is the opportunity to create your own single malt in the Sample Room, a unique experience in Scotland.
Glengoyne Tasting Experience
- Duration & Price: 45 minutes, £25.00 per person
- Details: This experience focuses on a personalized tutored tasting of 3 Glengoyne Highland Single Malt whiskies. It delves into the distillery’s rich history and the journey of the spirit through various stages. Note: This does not include a distillery tour.
Glengoyne Tour and Tasting
- Duration & Price: 75 minutes, £18.00 per person
- Details: An immersive tour that explores the slow distillation process unique to Glengoyne. It includes a tutored tasting of 2 Glengoyne whiskies, highlighting the bold, complex flavors derived from Scotland’s slowest stills.
The Collection Tour and Tasting
- Duration & Price: 90 minutes, £30.00 per person
- Details: This tour offers a deeper insight into whisky making at Glengoyne. It includes a tutored tasting of 3 whiskies from the Glengoyne Collection, paired with premium chocolates from The Highland Chocolatier. Restricted to individuals over 18 years of age.
Fine and Rare Tasting
- Duration & Price: 45 minutes, £50.00 per person
- Details: An exclusive tasting session featuring the limited Glengoyne 25 Year Old and 30 Year Old Highland Single Malts, plus a special wild card whisky. This experience focuses on the detailed aspects of whisky making but does not include a distillery tour.
Additional Offerings
- Gift Vouchers: Available for special occasions, allowing you to gift a unique Glengoyne experience.
- Visitor Reviews: Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and the engaging, informative nature of the tours.
- Group Bookings: Glengoyne welcomes group bookings with options for private tours and free coach parking. Advanced booking is essential for groups.
Planning Your Visit
- Location: Glengoyne Distillery, Dumgoyne, Near Killearn, Glasgow, G63 9LB
- Contact: +44 (0)1360 550254 or through their online contact form.
Flask & Barrel Review of Glengoyne Distillery
As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s toured numerous distilleries, I must say, Glengoyne Distillery truly stands out.
Nestled in a picturesque setting that instantly wins you over, it’s the perfect blend of scenic beauty and whiskey-making artistry. The tour itself was a delightful journey through the distillery’s history and processes.
What I appreciated most was the unhurried, traditional approach to whiskey making, a true testament to their commitment to quality.
The highlight, undoubtedly, was the tasting session. Each whiskey showcased Glengoyne’s mastery over flavor and texture, offering a distinct experience that was both educational and palate-pleasing.
The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole experience feel personalized and welcoming.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the gift shop could have had a more extensive range of their older expressions.
But overall, Glengoyne provided an immersive and enjoyable experience that resonated deeply with my passion for whiskey. It’s a solid 4.7 out of 5 – a must-visit for enthusiasts and novices alike.
What To Do Nearby Glengoyne Distillery
- Auchentoshan Distillery (8.3 miles): Another renowned whisky distillery, offering a distinct experience in Clydebank, Glasgow.
- Glasgow Tigers Speedway (9.9 miles): For speed enthusiasts, this venue in Possilpark, Glasgow offers thrilling motorcycle racing events.
- Glasgow West End (10 miles): A bustling area of Glasgow with a vibrant atmosphere, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Glasgow Botanic Gardens (9.8 miles): A haven for nature lovers, located on Great Western Road, Glasgow, perfect for a peaceful stroll among diverse plant species.
- Finnich Glen (2.4 miles): A natural beauty spot near Dumgoyne, offering scenic views and a tranquil escape from the city.
- Lillie Art Gallery (5.3 miles): Located in Glasgow, this gallery showcases local and international art, just a short drive from the distillery.
- The Lemond Gallery (6.6 miles): In Bearsden, Glasgow, this gallery is known for contemporary Scottish art, ideal for art enthusiasts.
- Richmond Park (6.4 miles): A green space in Shawfield, Glasgow, offering a peaceful retreat with walking paths and wildlife.
- Cottiers Theatre (10 miles): A theatre in Hyndland Street, Glasgow, known for its diverse performances and historic ambiance.
- Western Necropolis (8.5 miles): A historic cemetery in Glasgow, offering a serene and reflective environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Glengoyne Distillery?
- Beech Tree Cafe Bar: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Dumgoyne, Glasgow G63 9LA, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441360550297.
- The Old Mill: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 6 Balfron Rd, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9NJ, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441360550068.
- Clachan Inn: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Loch Lomond, Drymen Square, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0BL, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441360660824.
What hotels are near Glengoyne Distillery?
- West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is B821, Milngavie, Glasgow G63 9AW, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +447488261730.
- The Winnock Hotel: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Old Gartmore Rd, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0BL, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441360660245.
- Kirkhouse Inn: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Glasgow Rd, Strathblane, Glasgow G63 9AA, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441360771771.