Tullibardine Distillery
History of Tullibardine Distillery
Tullibardine’s story begins in 1488, a significant year marked by King James IV of Scotland’s visit to the site, then a brewery. This event is notable as it recorded the first public purchase of beer in Scotland, setting the stage for the distillery’s future.
The Transformation: From Brewery to Distillery (1947)
Fast forward to 1947, when distillery specialist William Delme-Evans discovered the site. He recognized the potential of the mineral-rich and pure water from the nearby springs in Perthshire’s Ochil Hills, ideal for distillation. The Ochil Hills, known for their gold, lent the distillery its motto ‘a drop of pure Highland gold’.
The Establishment: Birth of Tullibardine Distillery
Using the Danny Burn as the water source, Delme-Evans converted the brewery into Tullibardine Distillery, named after a nearby medieval chapel. Tullibardine, translating to ‘lookout hill’ in Gaelic, was notably the first distillery built in Scotland since 1900.
A Period of Silence: The Dormant Years (1993-2003)
The distillery experienced a dormant period between 1993 and 2003. This silence marked a significant phase in its history, indicating a temporary halt in production and a period of uncertainty for the brand.
Revival and Prosperity: A New Beginning (2003 Onwards)
In 2003, the distillery was reinvigorated by a group of private investors, marking the beginning of a new era. Later, in 2011, it was sold to the family-owned French wine and spirits group, Terroir Distillers. This transition brought new life and prosperity to Tullibardine, as it began thriving once again.
The Modern Distillery: A Comprehensive Facility
Today, Tullibardine boasts a comprehensive setup including a cooperage, maturation warehouses, a blending facility, and an on-site bottling line. This fully integrated approach signifies its modernization and commitment to maintaining high-quality production processes.
A Legacy Continued: Tullibardine Today
Currently, Tullibardine stands as a symbol of Scottish heritage and whisky-making tradition, continually evolving while holding onto its rich historical roots. It serves as a distillery and a testament to the enduring spirit of Scottish whisky craftsmanship.
Awards Won by Tullibardine Distillery
Tullibardine Distillery has garnered significant acclaim for its exceptional whiskies, notably in 2018 and 2020. Here’s a list of their noteworthy achievements:
Awards in 2018
- Tullibardine Sovereign:
- Received six awards at various international competitions.
- Recognized at the International Wine & Spirits Challenge (UK), World Whisky Masters Asia (Hong Kong), and the Ultimate Spirits Challenge (USA).
- 225 Sauternes Cask Finish & 500 Sherry Cask Finish:
- Awarded gold and silver medals at the 2018 World Whisky Masters in Hong Kong.
- Fine Aged Collection:
- Silver medals for aged expressions at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in America.
- The Murray Châteauneuf-du-Pape Expression:
- Silver medal at the International Spirits Challenge.
- Bronze medal in the 2018 Scottish Field Summer Challenge.
- Tullibardine 20 Year Old & 25 Year Old:
- Honored with Silver Outstanding awards at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
- The Tullibardine Sovereign also received a Bronze medal.
Award in 2020
- Tullibardine 15-Year-Old:
- Awarded a Double Gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge.
Tullibardine Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Tullibardine Distillery offers a range of tours, showcasing their artisanal whisky-making process. These tours are available seven days a week, from 10 am to 4 pm, excluding Christmas holidays.
Booking Information
Advance booking is required, either by telephone or email. Standard group sizes range from 8 to 10 people, with larger groups (up to 20) accommodated in smaller sub-groups.
Age Restrictions and Dress Code
Children under 5 are not permitted due to safety reasons. Those aged 5 to 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Sensible footwear is mandatory for safety, with no heels or open-toed shoes allowed.
Detailed Tour Options
1. Classic Tour
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Includes: Two whisky tastings
- Cost: [Price not specified in the sources]
2. Whisky & Chocolate Tour
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Includes: Four whisky tastings, chocolate truffles, and a gift bag
- Cost: £25 per person
3. Bonded Tour
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Includes: Nosing of casks, three whisky tastings, and a gift bag
- Cost: £27 per person
4. Connoisseur Tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Includes: Nosing of casks, four whisky tastings, chocolate truffle, and a gift bag
- Cost: £45 per person
Unique Experiences at Tullibardine
1. Complete On-Site Production
- Tullibardine is among the few Scottish distilleries where distilling, ageing, and bottling occur all on site, providing an in-depth view of the whisky production process.
2. Whisky Tasting Experience
- The tours culminate in a whisky tasting session, featuring various Tullibardine expressions like the Sovereign, 225 Sauternes Finish, 228 Burgundy Finish, and 500 Sherry Finish.
Visitor Reviews and Insights
Tour Guides’ Expertise
- Visitors often commend the knowledge and passion of the tour guides, enhancing the overall experience.
Personalized and Educational Tours
- The tours are noted for their educational value, providing detailed insights into the whisky-making process and the unique aspects of Tullibardine Distillery.
Flask & Barrel Review of Tullibardine Distillery
As a seasoned whisky collector who has experienced numerous distillery tours, I recently had the pleasure of visiting Tullibardine Distillery, and I must say, it was a standout experience. My overall rating for this tour would be a solid 4.7 out of 5.
First off, the setting of Tullibardine, nestled in Perthshire, is just fantastic. It strikes a perfect balance between traditional charm and modern convenience. The approach to whisky-making here is both artisanal and meticulous, which I deeply appreciate as a collector.
The tour itself was superbly organized. I opted for the Connoisseur Tour, which, at £45, I found to be a great value for the experience provided. The two-hour duration was just right, offering an in-depth look into the distillery’s processes without feeling rushed. The highlight for me was the nosing of casks – it’s not every day you get such an intimate look at the ageing process.
The range of whiskies we tasted was impressive. Each expression, from the Sovereign to the 500 Sherry Finish, had its unique character, and the notes of vanilla and spices were delightful. The chocolate truffle paired with the whiskies was a nice touch, elevating the tasting experience.
Our guide was knowledgeable and engaging, sharing intriguing facts and stories that made the tour both educational and entertaining. As someone who has been on many tours, I found the insights offered here to be refreshingly detailed and nuanced.
The only reason I’m not going full 5 out of 5 is that I’ve been on a few tours with slightly more interactive elements, like blending your own whisky, which Tullibardine didn’t offer. But that’s a minor point in an otherwise excellent tour.
What To Do Nearby Tullibardine Distillery
- The Glenturret Distillery (Approx. 10.7 miles)
- As Scotland’s oldest working distillery, The Glenturret offers a unique blend of history and whisky-making. Visitors can explore the distillation process and enjoy tastings.
- Distance: 10.7 miles
- Argaty Red Kites (Approx. 10.2 miles)
- This conservation project provides a rare opportunity to see Red Kites in their natural habitat. It is a perfect spot for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Distance: 10.2 miles
- Lochleven Castle (Approx. 15.6 miles)
- Rich in history, Lochleven Castle stands on an island in Loch Leven and is accessible by boat. It’s famous for imprisoning Mary Queen of Scots.
- Distance: 15.6 miles
- Active Kid Adventure Park (Approx. 16.7 miles)
- Ideal for families, this park offers a variety of activities including play areas, trampolines, and outdoor adventures.
- Distance: 16.7 miles
- Restaurant Andrew Fairlie (Approx. 2.2 miles)
- A luxurious dining experience, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and elegant setting, located in the Gleneagles Hotel.
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- The Century Bar (Approx. 2.2 miles)
- Located in the Gleneagles Hotel, The Century Bar offers a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for enjoying a drink after a day of exploring.
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Barley Bree (Approx. 5.5 miles)
- This restaurant is known for its fine dining and local cuisine, offering a cozy atmosphere in the village of Muthill.
- Distance: 5.5 miles
- The Dormy Restaurant (Approx. 2.1 miles)
- Another Gleneagles gem, The Dormy Restaurant is famed for its relaxed setting and delicious menu, offering a mix of modern and traditional dishes.
- Distance: 2.1 miles
- Macnaughtons of Pitlochry (Approx. 30.9 miles)
- A unique shopping experience in Pitlochry, offering a range of Scottish goods and crafts.
- Distance: 30.9 miles
- Fun Junction Toy Shop (Approx. 16.5 miles)
- A delightful toy shop in Perth, perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs for children.
- Distance: 16.5 miles
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Tullibardine Distillery?
The Dormy Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1764 694270. Their address is Gleneagles Hotel, The, Auchterarder PH3 1NF, United Kingdom.
Glendevon Bar & Grill: This restaurant boasts a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps. You can contact them for reservations at +44 7467 107694. The address is 196 High St, Auchterarder PH3 1AF, United Kingdom.
Restaurant Andrew Fairlie: With a stellar rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie can be contacted at +44 1764 694267. It is located at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Auchterarder PH3 1NF, United Kingdom.
What hotels are near Tullibardine Distillery
Cairn Lodge: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +44 1764 661095. Their address is Orchil Rd, Auchterarder PH3 1LX, United Kingdom.
The Gleneagles Hotel: This hotel boasts a 4.7-star rating on Google Maps. Reservations can be made by calling +44 1764 662231. It is located at Gleneagles Hotel, The, Auchterarder PH3 1NF, United Kingdom.
Stirling Court Hotel: With a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps, Stirling Court Hotel can be reached at +44 1786 451666 for bookings. The address is University of Stirling, Airthrey Rd, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom.