Tullibardine Distillery Blackford Scotland
Discover Tullibardine, a historic distillery in Blackford, Scotland, crafting exceptional single malt whiskies with unique wine cask finishes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Tullibardine Distillery Blackford Scotland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tullibardine, a historic distillery in Blackford, Scotland, crafting exceptional single malt whiskies with unique wine cask finishes.
"Amazing tour and a steal for the price! Our guide Sam was very accommodating and answered all of our questions."
🚗 Driving & Tasting Dilemma
If driving, you can't taste. Consider a taxi or a non-driving companion to enjoy the whisky samples!
🌟 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Gavin and Sam are praised for their passion and informative tours. Ask questions!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Distillery Tour Experience
Distillery Floor
Witness the magic of whisky making from mash to new make spirit. Smell the aromas and learn about cask maturation.
Whisky Tasting Sessions
Tasting Room
Sample a range of Tullibardine's unique single malts, especially their wine barrel finishes.
The Murray Triple Port Finish
Tasting Selection
Experience a distinctively fruity and complex single malt with notes of berries and chocolate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Driving & Tasting Dilemma
If driving, you can't taste. Consider a taxi or a non-driving companion to enjoy the whisky samples!
🌟 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Gavin and Sam are praised for their passion and informative tours. Ask questions! +1
💰 Great Value for Money
Many visitors find Tullibardine offers excellent quality whisky and tours for the price.
🍷 Unique Wine Cask Finishes
Explore their diverse range of single malts finished in various wine casks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Driving & Tasting Dilemma
If driving, you can't taste. Consider a taxi or a non-driving companion to enjoy the whisky samples!
🌟 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Gavin and Sam are praised for their passion and informative tours. Ask questions! +1
💰 Great Value for Money
Many visitors find Tullibardine offers excellent quality whisky and tours for the price.
🍷 Unique Wine Cask Finishes
Explore their diverse range of single malts finished in various wine casks.
📍 Blackford Location
Located in Blackford, the 'Gateway to the Highlands,' making it a convenient stop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tullibardine Distillery tours are overwhelmingly praised for their excellent value, knowledgeable and engaging guides, and the unique quality of their whiskies, particularly the wine cask finishes. Visitors appreciate the in-depth look at the whisky-making process and the sensory experience. However, a significant drawback for drivers is the inability to taste the whisky, as no miniatures are sold for them.
"Absolut fantastic Tour.
We made the Bonded Tour and our guide Gavin was incredible. He bringst so mich hart in the tour and make it so much kindness. He guidetus thru the complete desillery and give us an informativ insight into whisky making.
We could smell a lot from the mash to the new make spirit and the different tastes of Bourbon and Sherry casks and we the whisky does change about the years in a cask.
5 Stars for one of the best destillery tours i ever made. Seeya next time"
Martin Hofer
"Very good tour! Gavin told and and showed us a lot we didn’t yet know about whiskey, although having been in a lot of other destilleries. Whiskey tasting was also very nice! The whole tour was relaxed and smooth."
Nicolas Baumann
"Tullibardine distillery has a visitor centre and runs distillery and tasting tours. This is the best quality vs. price ratio for whisky we have found so far. Tullibardine distillery deliver very well on a range of different wine barrel finishes. The whisky is light due to a short fermentation time (about 52 hours) and complex for each different wine cask finish they have. There are multiple red wine, sauterne wine, sherry cask or even triple port casks finishes. Each single malt whisky has a distinguished aromas and complicated palate and finish."
Mikhail Trull
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tullibardine Distillery is about an hour's drive from Edinburgh. While driving is convenient, if you plan to taste, consider booking a taxi or a guided tour that includes transport. Public transport options might be limited and require multiple changes.
Public transport to Blackford can be challenging. It's best to check local bus routes in advance. Many visitors opt for car travel or organized tours from nearby cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Tullibardine Distillery is situated in the village of Blackford, Perth and Kinross, Scotland, often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Highlands.' 
Yes, the distillery is easily accessible by car and is located conveniently near the motorway. Ample parking is usually available for visitors.
While Tullibardine is a destination in itself, its location in Perth and Kinross means you're not far from other historical sites and natural beauty in the Scottish Highlands. The historic Tullibardine Chapel is also nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your distillery tour and tasting in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Tullibardine Distillery website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and tour availability.
Tullibardine is known for offering excellent value. Tour prices vary depending on the type of tour and tasting included, but many visitors consider it a 'steal for the price.' +1
Yes, Tullibardine offers various tours, including the 'Bonded Tour,' which provides an in-depth look at the whisky-making process and cask maturation.
Tours typically include a guided walk through the distillery, explanations of the whisky-making process, and often a tasting of several Tullibardine single malts. +1
🎫 🥃 Whisky & Tasting
Tullibardine is renowned for its single malt Scotch whiskies, particularly those with unique wine barrel finishes, such as triple port, sherry, and red wine casks.
Unfortunately, drivers are not permitted to taste whisky during tours. The visitor centre does not sell miniatures, so drivers will miss out on the tasting experience.
Tullibardine's whiskies are characterized by a light body due to short fermentation times and complex profiles derived from their diverse wine cask finishes.
While the focus is on whisky tasting, the visitor centre may offer other beverages. It's advisable to inquire directly about non-alcoholic options when booking or upon arrival.
Popular expressions include 'The Murray' range, often featuring unique cask finishes like the Triple Port Finish, known for its fruity notes.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Photography policies can vary within distilleries. It's best to check with your tour guide upon arrival regarding specific areas where photos are permitted.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as relaxed, smooth, and welcoming. Guides like Gavin and Sam are noted for making the experience warm and interesting. +1
Absolutely! Tullibardine Distillery makes for an excellent day trip, especially if you're exploring the Perthshire region or looking for a whisky-focused excursion from Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be on your feet. Dress in layers as distillery environments can vary in temperature.
Yes, the visitor centre typically sells a range of Tullibardine whiskies, including special bottlings. However, miniatures for drivers are not sold.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, focusing on the historical aspects of distilling and the science behind whisky production might be more engaging for younger visitors. The visual elements of the distillery, from the large mash tuns to the cooperage, can be captivating. It's always a good idea to check with the distillery directly about their policies on children attending tours.
🚗 Designated Drivers & Non-Drinkers
To make the most of your visit, consider arranging alternative transportation such as a taxi or ride-sharing service, or traveling with a companion who can enjoy the tasting. Alternatively, focus on the educational and sensory aspects of the tour – the sights, sounds, and smells of the distillery are fascinating in themselves, and guides are known for their engaging presentations.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
When planning your budget, remember to factor in transportation costs, especially if you're not driving and need to arrange taxis or public transport. However, the tour and tasting itself is considered a steal for the price, providing a comprehensive and enjoyable insight into Scotch whisky production.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Cask Finishing at Tullibardine
The distillery's commitment to exploring different cask types results in a fascinating range of whiskies. You'll find expressions finished in casks that previously held red wine, Sauternes, and even triple port. Each finish contributes distinct aromas and palate notes. For instance, the Triple Port Finish is noted for its pronounced fruity profile, with hints of berries and grapes, offering a departure from more conventional whisky flavors.
Visitors on tours often get to experience the impact of these different casks firsthand, learning how the wood interacts with the spirit over time. The ability to smell the mash, the new make spirit, and the aged whisky from various cask types provides an immersive understanding of the maturation process. This focus on cask finishing is a key reason why Tullibardine is considered to offer such high quality versus price ratio in the whisky market.
Understanding the Tullibardine Tour Experience
During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to smell the various stages of whisky making, including the sweet aromas from the mash tun and the potent scent of the new make spirit. The guides often explain the science and art behind fermentation, which at Tullibardine is kept relatively short (around 52 hours), contributing to the whisky's lighter character. You'll also learn about the critical role of casks in shaping the whisky's flavor profile, with insights into how different wood types and previous contents (like bourbon, sherry, or various wines) impart distinct notes.
While the tours are highly recommended, a significant point for drivers is the inability to participate in the whisky tasting. As there are no miniatures available for purchase for drivers, it's a crucial consideration for those traveling by car. This has led some visitors to express mixed feelings, highlighting the excellent tour experience but the limitation for designated drivers.
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