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Old Pulteney Distillery

4.8
·254 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover the maritime heart of Scotland at Old Pulteney Distillery, crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whisky influenced by the North Sea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer tour groups

CrowdLow
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Old Pulteney Distillery

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer tour groups

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the maritime heart of Scotland at Old Pulteney Distillery, crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whisky influenced by the North Sea.

4.8
(254 reviews)

"An amazing experience with a fantastic and informative tour, offering a true glimpse into the process."

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TIP

🎯 Book Tours Ahead

Popular tours fill up fast! Secure your spot for the Old Pulteney Distillery experience online.

🥃 Taste the Coastal Spirit

Don't miss the whisky tasting; try unique expressions and learn about their maritime influence.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Distillery Tour

Distillery Tour

Old Pulteney Distillery

An in-depth look at the whisky-making process, from grain to glass, with passionate guides.

Whisky Tasting

Whisky Tasting

Distillery Shop

Sample a range of Old Pulteney's finest single malt whiskies, including unique barrel selections.

Museum Room

Museum Room

Distillery Shop

Explore the history and heritage of this iconic coastal distillery and its whiskies.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Tours at the Old Pulteney Distillery are popular, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures your spot and avoids disappointment. Consider the time of year for your visit to manage crowds.

Embrace the Coastal Charm

Located in Wick, the distillery offers a glimpse into traditional Scottish whisky making. The coastal setting adds to the atmosphere, so be prepared for potentially brisk weather.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Distillery Tours?

🎯 Book Tours Ahead

Popular tours fill up fast! Secure your spot for the Old Pulteney Distillery experience online.

🥃 Taste the Coastal Spirit

Don't miss the whisky tasting; try unique expressions and learn about their maritime influence.

reddit.com

Scotland-heavy month-long trip - feedback welcome

🚶‍♀️ Explore Wick

Wick offers charming coastal scenery and local culture to complement your distillery visit.

🧥 Dress for the Weather

Scotland's weather can be unpredictable. Layers are key for comfort during your visit.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours Ahead

Popular tours fill up fast! Secure your spot for the Old Pulteney Distillery experience online.

🥃 Taste the Coastal Spirit

Don't miss the whisky tasting; try unique expressions and learn about their maritime influence.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Wick

Wick offers charming coastal scenery and local culture to complement your distillery visit.

🧥 Dress for the Weather

Scotland's weather can be unpredictable. Layers are key for comfort during your visit.

What Travellers Say

4.8
(254 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Old Pulteney Distillery tours, highlighting the informative and personal experience provided by guides like Gordon. The unique maritime character of the whisky and the opportunity for special tastings, including bottling from the cask, are major draws. While the tasting strength might be too much for some, the overall experience is consistently rated as excellent, with many appreciating the authentic glimpse into whisky production.

"A lovely tour by our wonderful guide Gordon, a perfect length introduction to the production of whisky without too much of an information dump which was appreciated. The tasting at the end is well presented and classy looking, just too strong for me unfortunately haha."

Joseph Snitch

"Had a great time and learned a lot about how my most beloved brand makes its single malt whisky. Funny enough, the house I stayed in at Wick had walls that matched the very bottle I bought at the distillery!"

Lachezar Sotirov

"The Old Pulteney has an special place in our hart.
After a long drive we called for a tour and we arrived late.
Non the less they gave us a personal tour around the property and teach us their entire process.
After the tour we taste their incredible whisky’s and we enjoyed them all.
An old distillery which breaths history …. Just go and surprise yourself with a great experience."

Karel van den Berg

What People Like

Informative and personal tours
Unique maritime whisky character
Cask bottling experience

What People Dislike

Whisky tasting strength

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Pulteney Distillery is located in Wick, Caithness, in the far north of Scotland. Visitors can drive to Wick, with the distillery being easily accessible within the town. For those traveling from further afield, the nearest major airports are Inverness (INV) and Aberdeen (ABZ), followed by a scenic drive or train journey. Public transport options include buses that serve Wick.

Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors at the Old Pulteney Distillery. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on parking facilities and any associated costs.

While a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the Highlands, it is possible to visit the Old Pulteney Distillery using public transport. Buses run to Wick, and the distillery is within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the town center.

The Old Pulteney Distillery is located at Pulteney Distillery, Huddart Street, Wick, Caithness, KW1 5BS, Scotland. This coastal location is a key part of its identity and whisky character.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour prices can vary depending on the type of tour and tasting experience chosen. It's best to check the official Old Pulteney Distillery website for current pricing and to book your tickets in advance, as popular tours can sell out.

Yes, booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures you secure your preferred date and time for the Old Pulteney Distillery experience.

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Visitors should consult the official Old Pulteney Distillery website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on tour availability and operating hours.

Yes, visitors can often visit the distillery shop and museum room without taking a full tour. This allows you to explore the history and purchase whisky, as mentioned by some visitors who opted for this experience.Reddit

Old Pulteney Distillery typically offers various tour and tasting experiences, ranging from introductory tours to more in-depth explorations of their whisky production and maturation processes. Check their website for current offerings.

🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience

Tours at Old Pulteney Distillery provide an introduction to the whisky-making process, highlighting their unique coastal maturation. Guides like Gordon are praised for being fantastic and informative, offering a comprehensive look at production.Reddit

Most tours at Old Pulteney Distillery include a whisky tasting, allowing you to sample their renowned single malt Scotch whiskies. The tasting is often described as well-presented and classy.Reddit

Absolutely! The distillery shop offers a wide selection of Old Pulteney whiskies, including special bottlings and expressions you might not find elsewhere. Some visitors even seal their own bottles directly from the barrel.Reddit

Old Pulteney whisky is known for its distinctive maritime character, influenced by its coastal location in Wick. This unique environment imparts a subtle salinity and complexity to their single malts, such as the Old Pulteney 18 or Old Pulteney 12yo.

Old Pulteney offers a range of age statements, including popular expressions like the Old Pulteney 12yo, Old Pulteney 18, and Old Pulteney 21. They also release vintage bottlings, such as the Old Pulteney 1989 or Old Pulteney 2006 vintage, and special cask finishes like bourbon cask or sherry cask.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Old Pulteney Distillery primarily focuses on whisky tours and tastings. While there might not be a full restaurant on-site, the nearby town of Wick offers various dining options, from pubs to local eateries.

While the focus is on whisky, it's likely that non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase in the shop or for designated drivers. It's always a good idea to inquire directly with the distillery.

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography is permitted in most public areas of the distillery, but it's always best to check with your guide. Capturing the historic stills and coastal views can make for great shots.

The exterior of the distillery with its coastal backdrop, the interior of the production areas (where permitted), and the tasting room offer excellent photographic opportunities. The unique bottle designs also make for appealing flat lays.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Old Pulteney Distillery is primarily focused on adult whisky enthusiasts, families can still enjoy a visit. The museum room offers a glimpse into the history of the distillery and the town of Wick, which can be interesting for older children. The scenic coastal location also provides opportunities for exploration. Ensure children are supervised at all times, and consider booking a tour that includes a tasting for the adults while keeping the younger ones engaged with the historical aspects of the visit.

🥃 Whisky Aficionados

For serious whisky lovers, Old Pulteney offers a unique experience. The chance to taste expressions directly from the barrel and learn about the maritime influence on the spirit is invaluable. Explore the range of age statements, from the accessible Old Pulteney 12yo to more complex bottlings like the Old Pulteney 18 or Old Pulteney 21. Keep an eye out for limited edition Old Pulteney vintage releases and special cask finishes that showcase the distillery's craftsmanship.

🚗 Road Trippers

The Old Pulteney Distillery is a fantastic stop for those on a North Coast 500 adventure or exploring the Scottish Highlands. Its location in Wick makes it a convenient point to break up a journey and experience a taste of traditional Scottish industry. Plan your visit to allow ample time for the tour and tasting, and perhaps explore the charming town of Wick and its surroundings. Remember to arrange a designated driver or utilize local taxi services if you plan to indulge in the whisky tasting.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Maritime Influence on Old Pulteney Whisky

Old Pulteney Distillery's location in Wick, Scotland's most northerly coastal town, profoundly influences its whisky. The sea air, with its distinct salinity, plays a crucial role in the maturation process. Casks are often stored in warehouses close to the North Sea, allowing the environment to impart a unique maritime character to the spirit. This results in whiskies that are often described as having a subtle briny note, a touch of sweetness, and a lingering warmth, reminiscent of the rugged coastal landscape.

This coastal influence is a hallmark of the Old Pulteney scotch whisky range. Expressions like the Old Pulteney 18 and the Old Pulteney 12yo are celebrated for their balance of traditional malty notes and this signature maritime character. Visitors often remark on how the distillery's location is intrinsically linked to the taste profile of the pulteney whisky, making a visit an immersive sensory experience. The Old Pulteney distillery location is not just a geographical point but a vital ingredient in their craft.

Exploring the Old Pulteney Range

The Old Pulteney brand offers a diverse portfolio catering to various preferences, from entry-level drams to rare vintage releases. The core range includes the Old Pulteney 12yo, a classic introduction to their style, and the richer Old Pulteney 18 years single malt, known for its depth and complexity. For those seeking something more exclusive, limited editions and older expressions like the Old Pulteney 21 or Old Pulteney 25 year are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Beyond the standard age statements, Old Pulteney also experiments with different cask finishes, such as Old Pulteney bourbon cask and Old Pulteney sherry cask expressions, adding further layers of flavor. Vintage releases, like the Old Pulteney 1989 or Old Pulteney 2006 vintage, offer a unique opportunity to taste whisky from specific years, showcasing the distillery's historical production. Exploring the Old Pulteney whisky price points reveals a spectrum from accessible to premium, reflecting the age and rarity of each bottling.

A Personal Touch: Distillery Tours and Tastings

Visitors consistently praise the personal and informative nature of tours at the Old Pulteney Distillery. Guides like Gordon are frequently mentioned for their passion and knowledge, making the tour an engaging experience rather than just a factual delivery.Reddit Unlike some larger distilleries that might offer a more 'sanitized' version of production, Old Pulteney allows visitors to see every part of the process,Reddit offering a genuine insight into traditional whisky making.

The tasting sessions are also a highlight, often described as 'well-presented and classy'.Reddit Some visitors have even had the unique opportunity to select a bottle directly from the barrel, seal it with wax, and personalize the label themselves.Reddit This hands-on approach, combined with the warm reception from the staff, creates a memorable and authentic distillery visit, making it a must-do for fans of Old Pulteney scotch.