Visiting Glenmorangie
Travel Distilled tells you all you need to know about visiting Glenmorangie, including tours available, contact information and a history of the distillery.
Glenmorangie Distillery is one of Scotland’s most renowned whisky producers, celebrated for its exceptional single malt Scotch whisky.
Where is Glenmorangie?
Map (c) Google Maps
Located in the Highlands, the distillery sits near the Dornoch Firth in the village of Tain, Ross-shire, a 45-minute drive north of Inverness. Its picturesque setting and commitment to craftsmanship have made it a favorite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
The History of Glenmorangie
Glenmorangie Distillery has been crafting single malt Scotch whisky since 1843. Its founder, William Matheson, transformed the Morangie Farm brewery into a distillery, installing second-hand gin stills that would become iconic for their exceptional height—still the tallest in Scotland today. The name “Glenmorangie” derives from the Gaelic “Gleann Mòr na Sìth,” meaning “Valley of Tranquility,” reflecting both the serene landscape and the whisky’s smooth character.
In its early years, Glenmorangie sold whisky for mere shillings per gallon, but its reputation grew steadily. By 1918, the distillery was acquired by Macdonald & Muir, a Leith-based wine and spirits merchant, which maintained control for nearly 90 years. The brand weathered difficult periods, including Prohibition and World War II, during which it was mothballed due to barley and fuel shortages.
A pivotal figure in Glenmorangie’s history was Gordon L. Smart, who managed the distillery for 50 years starting in 1920. He led the famed “16 Men of Tain,” a dedicated team whose craftsmanship became synonymous with the brand’s quality.
In 2004, Glenmorangie entered a new era under the ownership of luxury conglomerate Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH). This ushered in significant investment and innovation, expanding the brand’s portfolio with expressions matured in unique casks like Sauternes, port, and sherry.
Today, Glenmorangie is celebrated globally for its elegant and complex whiskies. It remains deeply rooted in its Highland heritage, blending tradition with creativity to produce some of Scotland’s most beloved single malts.
Whisky Range
Glenmorangie’s core range includes the Original 10-Year-Old, Lasanta (sherry cask-finished), Quinta Ruban (port cask-finished), and Nectar d’Or (Sauternes cask-finished). The distillery also releases limited editions and special cask finishes, showcasing its innovative spirit.
Sustainability and Community
Glenmorangie is committed to sustainability, with initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The distillery has invested in renewable energy sources and works to protect the local ecosystem, including the Dornoch Firth’s marine life.
Visiting Glenmorangie
Glenmorangie Distillery offers a rich and immersive visitor experience, blending tradition, innovation, and hospitality.
Distillery Tours
Visitors can choose from several themed tours:
- Meet the Makers Tour (90 mins): A behind-the-scenes look led by the distillers themselves. Guests explore the copper stills and learn about Glenmorangie’s unique whisky-making process. Includes selected drams and is suitable for ages 8+.
- Innovation Tour (1 hr 45 mins): A deep dive into Glenmorangie’s experimental side. This tour includes a tasting of three innovative single malts paired with fine chocolates, showcasing the brand’s creative approach to flavor.
- Old and Rare Tasting (45 mins): Held in a traditional dunnage warehouse, this exclusive tasting features four rare and limited-edition whiskies. It’s a premium experience for serious whisky enthusiasts.
Each tour offers intimate group sizes and personalized attention, led by seasoned distillery staff who share stories and insights into Glenmorangie’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Shop and Amenities
The distillery shop is a treasure trove for whisky lovers, offering the full Glenmorangie range—including exclusive bottlings not available elsewhere—as well as branded merchandise and gifts.
Eating
While Glenmorangie does not operate a full-service café on-site, visitors can enjoy refreshments and light snacks during their visit. For a more luxurious experience, guests may opt to stay or dine at Glenmorangie House, a nearby boutique hotel offering Highland hospitality and gourmet meals in a stunning coastal setting. There are also plenty of eating options in the centre of Tain, a two-minute drive from the distillery.
Contact Information
– Address: Glenmorangie Distillery, Tain, Ross-shire, IV19 1PZ, Scotland
– Phone Number: +44 (0)1862 892477
– Website: glenmorangie.com
– Facebook: facebook.com
See Harrison Ford visiting Glenmorangie!
Contact Information
– Address: Glenmorangie Distillery, Tain, Ross-shire, IV19 1PZ, Scotland
– Phone Number: +44 (0)1862 892477
– Website: glenmorangie.com
– Facebook: facebook.com
See Harrison Ford visiting Glenmorangie!
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