Distillery & Whisky News July 2026
Hello whisky lovers, and welcome to our July edition of Distillery and Whisky News.
Summer is finally here, even if the Scottish weather still needs a little encouragement! Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, there’s no better time to explore Scotland’s incredible distilleries.
If a whisky-filled trip is on your agenda, our Plan Your Trip feature on DistilleryTours.scot makes it easier than ever to create your own tailor-made itinerary. Choose the distilleries you’d love to visit, add whisky shops, bars and places to stay along the way, and create a route that’s ready to take with you.
So, whether you’re discovering new favourites or returning to much-loved distilleries, start planning your summer journey today.
Distillery of the Month: The Balvenie
Nestled in the heart of Speyside, near Dufftown, The Balvenie Distillery offers one of Scotland’s most distinctive whisky experiences. Unlike many modern distilleries, The Balvenie continues to preserve traditional whisky-making skills, with generations of craftsmanship and attention to detail shaping every bottle since the distillery was founded in 1892.
Visitors can discover the famous Five Rare Crafts that set the distillery apart. From traditional floor malting and the dedicated on-site cooperage to the expertise of skilled craftsmen, each element plays an important role in creating the character and quality of The Balvenie single malts.
The distillery offers a range of immersive experiences, including the Balvenie Explorer Tour, which introduces visitors to the brand’s heritage and whisky-making process, and the Classic Tour, where guests can explore the working distillery, visit Warehouse 24 and enjoy a carefully curated tasting.
For those looking for a truly memorable experience, the Warehouse Tasting Experience offers the chance to explore the influence of different cask types and discover how they shape the flavours found within The Balvenie’s exceptional whiskiess.
Find out more about Balvenie Distillery at its dedicated pages on the DistilleryTours.scot website.
Venue of the Month: Angus Alchemy
Located near Carnoustie, Angus Alchemy is home to a bold range of spirits, including award-winning moonshine and gin, all crafted with creativity, curiosity and a passion for flavour. From the moment you arrive, you’ll discover a distillery that embraces innovation while keeping things down-to-earth.
Their unique tasting experiences offer visitors the chance to go behind the scenes, learn more about the people and processes behind the spirits, and sample a selection of carefully crafted creations.
Whether you’re exploring their signature moonshines, discovering local spirits or simply looking for a memorable day out, Angus Alchemy offers a visit with plenty of character.
Find out more about Angus Alchemy on its dedicated page at the DistilleryTours website.
Experience of the Month: Making of the Maritime Experience
This month, we took a trip to the far north of Scotland to visit Pulteney Distillery in Wick and experienced their Maritime Malt Experience. During our visit, we discovered the craftsmanship and heritage that come together to create this distinctive Highland single malt.
Date With a Dram: Leith Export Co.'s Table Whisky
For July's Date With A Dram competition we've a bottle of Leith Export Co.Table Whisky up for grabs! A single grain whisky distilled in Edinburgh, matured and blended in Leith. An approachable and delicious whisky designed to be enjoyed and shared with friends. For any table.
Competition Time
To be in with a chance of winning a bottle of Table Whisky simply follow DistilleryTours.scot on Facebook or Instagram and share our 'Date with a Dram' post dated 1 July. The lucky winner will be chosen at random and announced in our August newsletter!
You must be 18 years old or over to enter. Please note, will never approach you for your credit card details or personal information, send you friend requests or ask you to click on a link. Please stay safe online and remember to drink responsibly.
Malt of the Month: Storyman
This month, we’re discovering Storyman Whisky from Annandale Distillery - a dram created around the art of storytelling and shared moments. Personally selected by Scottish actor James Cosmo, Storyman is a smooth and well-rounded blended Scotch whisky created in small batches, bringing together Annandale’s award-winning single malts with a carefully crafted blend.
Perfect Serve: Iced T.E.A
Discover a refreshing Highland twist on a classic long drink with the Tomatin Iced T.E.A. Combining the smooth, fruity character of Tomatin Legacy with chilled Earl Grey tea, crisp apple juice and a hint of peach bitters, this elegant cocktail is a refreshing summer serve.
Podcast: Summer Listening Sorted!
Looking for holiday entertainment? Take Scotland’s whisky stories with you wherever you go with the DistilleryTours.scot Podcast. Discover fascinating conversations with distillers, explore the craft behind your favourite drams from the comfort of your headphones.
Looking for inspiration for your next Distillery Tour? Follow us on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM to hear more, and subscribe to this newsletter at DISTILLERYTOURS.SCOT/SIGNUP.