Edinburgh’s Port of Leith Distillery is a one-of-a-kind vertical whisky distillery, where visitors can witness the full production process across its first four floors. This modern facility blends cutting-edge technology with traditional distillation techniques, offering a guided tour to uncover the secrets of Scotland’s national spirit. The highlight of the experience is the tasting session, showcasing the distillery’s award-winning whiskies. But the real draw is the stunning views from the whisky bar, where you can fill your own miniature bottle as a memento of your visit. It’s an accessible and unique distillery experience that’s sure to pique your interest.
Key Points
- The Port of Leith Distillery is the UK’s first vertical whisky distillery, integrating its production process across the first four floors of the Edinburgh facility.
- The distillery offers a guided tour where visitors can witness the full journey of Scotland’s national spirit, from milling and mashing to fermentation, distillation, and maturation.
- The tour is followed by a tasting experience, where guests can sample a variety of spirits, including new make whisky, port, and sherry, and fill their own miniature bottle as a souvenir.
- The distillery is fully accessible, with elevators and plated walkways, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors, including those with wheelchairs or limited mobility.
- The tour and tasting experience provide a comprehensive look into the history and inner workings of this innovative distillery, as well as the opportunity to enjoy stunning views from the whisky bar on the upper floors.
Vertical Distillery in Edinburgh
The Port of Leith Distillery stands as the UK’s first vertical whisky distillery, integrating its production process across the first four floors of its Edinburgh facility.
This pioneering approach allows the distillery to streamline operations and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the making of Scotland’s national drink.
The distillery was founded by two Edinburgh natives who sought to bring a modern and innovative touch to the traditional whisky-making process.
With its production facilities, visitor amenities, and stunning views from the upper floors, the Port of Leith Distillery is a testament to the city’s rich distilling heritage and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of whisky-making.
Production Process and History
At the heart of the Port of Leith Distillery‘s operations lies a meticulously designed production process that spans the first four floors of the facility, allowing visitors to witness the full journey of Scotland’s national spirit.
Founded by two Edinburgh locals, the distillery’s pioneering approach to whisky-making blends modern technology with traditional techniques.
On the ground floor, visitors can observe the milling and mashing of the grains, while the upper floors showcase the fermentation, distillation, and maturation stages.
The distillery’s vertical layout not only maximizes efficiency but also offers a unique vantage point for guests to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each drop of the distillery’s award-winning whiskies, gins, and other spirits.
Tour and Tasting Experience
Visitors to the Port of Leith Distillery embark on a guided tour, where they can learn about the distillery’s production process and the history behind Scotland’s national drink.
The tour is followed by a tasting experience, where guests sample a variety of spirits, including new make whisky, port, and sherry.
As a special souvenir, visitors can fill their own miniature bottle with a new spirit.
The tour and tasting experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, and guests are encouraged to arrive 10 minutes early.
Visitors will be able to explore the UK’s first vertical distillery and discover the future of whisky production while enjoying stunning views from the distillery’s whisky bar.
Accessibility and Dress Code
The distillery is fully accessible, with elevators and plated walkways throughout the facility. High-heeled shoes and open-toe shoes aren’t allowed on the tour due to the industrial environment. This ensures the safety of all visitors as they explore the UK’s first vertical whisky distillery.
The team at the Port of Leith Distillery is committed to providing an exceptional experience for everyone. Whether you’re using a wheelchair or have limited mobility, you can fully enjoy the tour and tasting. The distillery’s thoughtful design and accessibility features make it a welcoming destination for all whisky enthusiasts.
Visitors can focus on immersing themselves in the distillery’s history and production process without any barriers.
Highlights of the Distillery
Exploring the UK’s first vertical distillery offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the future of whisky production.
From the stunning whisky bar with its breathtaking views to the chance to fill their own miniature bottle with a new spirit, the experience at the Port of Leith Distillery is truly worth drinking in.
Visitors can marvel at the production process laid out over the first four floors, witnessing the pioneering approach to crafting Scotland’s national drink.
The tour and tasting experience, which lasts around 1.5 hours, provides a comprehensive look into the history and inner workings of this innovative hotel.
Whether it’s the new make whisky, port, or sherry, the tasting is a highlight that allows guests to sample the distillery’s exceptional spirits.
Meeting Point and Arrival
Upon arrival, visitors should make their way to the Distillery Lobby and arrive 10 minutes prior to the start of the tour.
From there, they’ll take the elevators on their left to reach the Reception on Level 6, which serves as the starting point for the guided experience.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old.
The tour begins promptly, so it’s important to arrive on time.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the industrial environment may not be suitable for high-heels or open-toe shoes.
After the tour, visitors can enjoy the stunning whisky bar with its exceptional views.
Duration and Suitability
The tour and tasting experience at the Port of Leith Distillery typically lasts around 1.5 hours, providing visitors with a comprehensive insight into the distillery’s production process and history.
During this time, guests can explore the UK’s first vertical distillery, learning about the pioneering approach used to craft Scotland’s national drink.
The tour is suitable for visitors aged 7 and above, though high-heeled and open-toe shoes aren’t allowed due to the industrial environment.
After the guided tour, visitors can enjoy a tasting of the distillery’s spirits, including new make whisky, port, and sherry, and even fill their own miniature bottle as a souvenir.
The distillery’s fully accessible facilities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.
Whisky Bar With Views
One of the highlights of the Port of Leith Distillery is its stunning whisky bar that offers exceptional views over the historic Leith district.
Situated on the upper floors, this sophisticated bar allows visitors to sip on the distillery’s expertly crafted spirits while taking in the picturesque vistas of Edinburgh’s waterfront.
The bar’s sleek design and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a dram or two.
Some of the bar’s standout features include:
- A curated selection of the distillery’s award-winning whiskies, ports, and sherries
- Panoramic windows offering breathtaking views of the Leith harbor and the Firth of Forth
- A cozy, intimate seating area perfect for relaxing and savoring the flavors of Scotland’s national drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Group Discounts Available for the Tour and Tasting?
Yes, group discounts are offered for the tour and tasting experience. Groups of 10 or more can receive a discounted rate when booking in advance, making it a more affordable option for parties and special events.
Can I Purchase Bottles of the Distillery’s Spirits at the End of the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase bottles of the distillery’s spirits at the end of the tour. The on-site shop offers a selection of the distillery’s whisky, port, and sherry for visitors to take home as souvenirs.
Are There Any Options for Non-Alcoholic Tastings or Experiences?
The Port of Leith Distillery does offer non-alcoholic tasting options. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour and sample a range of non-alcoholic spirits, providing a unique opportunity to experience the distillery’s offerings without consuming alcohol.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour and Tasting?
Photography is generally permitted during the tour and tasting, allowing visitors to capture the distillery’s stunning architecture and production process. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas for safety and preservation purposes.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Consume on the Premises?
No, visitors are not allowed to bring their own food or drinks to consume on the distillery premises. The distillery has its own tasting bar and shop where visitors can purchase refreshments during their tour and tasting experience.
Recap
Edinburgh’s Port of Leith Distillery offers a unique vertical whisky experience.
Visitors can explore the full production process, from traditional techniques to modern technology, while enjoying stunning views from the whisky bar.
The guided tour and tasting showcases the distillery’s award-winning products, and guests can even fill their own miniature bottle as a memorable souvenir.
