Glenmorangie Distillery
History of Glenmorangie Distillery
The Founding Era
Glenmorangie Distillery’s story began in 1843, founded by William Matheson and his wife, Anne. They built the distillery in the Scottish Highlands, starting small but with a grand vision.
The name ‘Glenmorangie,’ derived from Gaelic, means ‘Valley of Tranquility,’ reflecting Matheson’s love for the serene land.
Innovations and Distinctive Features
The distillery is renowned for its unusually tall copper stills, the tallest in Scotland, standing at 5.14 meters. These stills produce a delicate spirit, allowing for innovative whisky-making techniques.
Another key to Glenmorangie’s unique whisky is the Tarlogie Springs, their protected water source rich in minerals, contributing to the whisky’s distinctive fruitiness and smooth finish.
Wood Management and Sustainability
Glenmorangie places significant emphasis on wood management, using carefully crafted casks for maturing their whisky. Their sustainable wood policy and innovative approaches in wood management play a crucial role in the quality and character of their whiskies.
The People Behind the Craft
The distillery has been home to many devoted individuals, including Gordon L Smart, who served as the Distillery manager for fifty years from 1920. The ’16 Men of Tain,’ and now the ’24 Distillers of Tain,’ have been integral to crafting Glenmorangie’s whiskies.
The current Distillery manager, Edward Thom, was awarded the Global Distillery Manager of the year in 2022.
Whiskey Ranges from Glenmorangie Distillery
Glenmorangie offers a range of Highland single malt Scotch whiskies, including Core Expressions, Limited Editions, and Prestige Expressions. The distillery welcomes guests for tours and tastings, providing an immersive experience into the craft behind their celebrated whiskies.
Awards Won by Glenmorangie Distillery
- Global Distillery Manager of the Year: Edward Thom, Glenmorangie’s Distillery Manager, received this honor at the Whisky Magazine Icons of Whisky Awards in 2022 for his team’s efforts to sustain and improve the distillery.
- Gold Award Medals at Scottish Whisky Awards: Glenmorangie won two gold medals for Glenmorangie The Signet and The Accord, their 12-year-old Single Malt, at the 2021 Scottish Whisky Awards.
- International Whisky Competition: Glenmorangie Signet was named Whisky of the Year, scoring 97 out of 100. Additionally, the distillery’s Master Distiller, Dr. Bill Lumsden, received the Master Distiller of the Year award. Previously, the whisky had also received a Gold Outstanding award at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2015.
- International Spirits Challenge and San Francisco World Spirits Competition: Over a period, Glenmorangie whiskies have won a total of 18 ‘Gold Best in Class’ medals. Moreover, the Glenmorangie Company, which includes Glenmorangie and Ardbeg single malts, secured 25 prized gold awards at these competitions, with Glenmorangie alone receiving ten gold awards.
Glenmorangie Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Classic Tour Experience
The Glenmorangie Distillery offers an immersive Classic Tour, providing a deep dive into the world of their creamy, complex single malt. This one-hour tour, priced at £20 per person (£23 from 2024), allows a maximum of 12 guests per tour.
Visitors can trace the journey of Glenmorangie’s signature whisky, The Original, exploring the distillery’s unique processes. The tour culminates in a two-dram tasting from their Core Expressions range, offering a sensory exploration of their finest whiskies.
Tour Availability and Scheduling
- June – August: Monday to Sunday, every 30 minutes from 10 am to 4 pm.
- May, September, & October: Monday to Friday, every hour from 10 am to 3 pm.
- January – March & November – December: Monday to Friday at 10 am & 2 pm.
Special Notes and Contact Information
During November and December, visitors may experience a slightly altered tour due to essential works at the distillery. All distillery experiences have a 24-hour cancellation policy.
For cancellations or rescheduling, contact the distillery visitor center directly at 01862 892477. The distillery reserves the right to cancel tours as needed, offering alternative times/dates or full refunds.
Visiting Hours and Additional Information
The Visitor Centre is open 5 days a week, from 10 am to 5 pm, with the Tasting Bar available from 11 am to 4:30 pm. The distillery is completely closed from December 21st (from 12 pm) to January 8th.
For more information or to book a tour, visitors can call 01862 892477 or email tshop@glenmorangie.co.uk.
Flask & Barrel Review of Glenmorangie Distillery
I recently visited Glenmorangie Distillery, and let me tell you, it was pretty awesome. As a whiskey collector, I’ve been on my fair share of distillery tours, but this one really stood out.
The setting is stunning, nestled in the Scottish Highlands, giving you that authentic feel right off the bat.
The tour itself was top-notch. You get to see the entire whiskey-making process up close, and the staff knows their stuff. They’re passionate and super friendly, which makes the experience even better.
What I loved most was the tasting session. The range of flavors in their whiskeys is impressive, and each one tells its own story.
But, why not a perfect score? Well, the only hiccup was the wait time for the tour. It was a bit longer than expected, but honestly, it’s a small gripe considering how great everything else was.
Overall, I’m giving Glenmorangie a solid 4.7 out of 5. It’s a must-visit for any whiskey enthusiast. Their craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every sip. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
What To Do Nearby Glenmorangie Distillery
- Balblair Distillery (3.9 miles away): If you’re into whiskey, why not check out another distillery nearby? Balblair offers a different vibe and taste.
- Dornoch Beach (4.1 miles away): Fancy a stroll on the beach? Dornoch Beach is a great spot to relax and enjoy some fresh sea air.
- Royal Dornoch Golf Club (4.1 miles away): If you’re into golf, this is a must-visit. It’s one of the top golf courses around and just a short drive from the distillery.
- Dornoch Cathedral (4.1 miles away): History buffs will enjoy visiting this beautiful and historic cathedral in Dornoch.
- Tain Golf Club (1.6 miles away): Another option for golf enthusiasts, closer to the distillery.
- Aspen Spa (1.9 miles away): After all the whiskey tasting and exploring, unwind at Aspen Spa, just a short drive away.
- Historylinks Museum (4 miles away): Dive into local history at this interesting museum in Dornoch.
- Tain Through Time (1.2 miles away): Explore more about the history and heritage of Tain at this local museum.
- Tain Museum (1.3 miles away): Yet another spot for history lovers, showcasing local artifacts and stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Glenmorangie Distillery?
- Platform 1864: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Station Rd, Tain IV19 1JA, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441862894181.
- Greens Restaurant Tain: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 11-15 High St, Tain IV19 1AB, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441862893874.
- Fish And Chicken Bar And Curry Club: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 3-5 Lamington St, Tain IV19 1AA, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441862894090.
What hotels are near Glenmorangie Distillery?
- Shandwick House: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Chapel St, Tain IV19 1EL, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441862857418.
- Morangie Hotel Tain: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Morangie Rd, Tain IV19 1PY, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441862892281.
- St Duthus Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2 Tower St, Tain IV19 1DY, United Kingdom.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441862894007.