Visiting Wolfburn
Travel Distilled’s guide to visiting Wolfburn Distillery, the most northerly distillery on the Scottish mainland, with details of tours available.
Wolfburn Distillery is one of Scotland’s most intriguing whisky producers, known for its modern approach to traditional whisky-making.
Where is the Wolfburn Distillery?
Map (c) Google Maps
Located in Thurso, Caithness, in the northern Highlands, Wolfburn is the most northerly distillery on the Scottish mainland.
Here’s a detailed overview of its history, visitor experience, and contact information.
History of Wolfburn Distillery
Wolfburn Distillery has a fascinating history that bridges the past and present. The original Wolfburn Distillery was established in 1821 and was one of the largest distilleries in Scotland at the time, producing around 28,000 gallons of whisky annually. However, it closed in the 1850s, and its legacy faded into obscurity.
In 2012, the distillery was resurrected by a group of whisky enthusiasts who were inspired by the original site’s history. The new Wolfburn Distillery was built just 350 meters from the site of the original distillery, using water from the Wolf Burn, the same water source that supplied the historic operation.
Production began in 2013, and the distillery released its first single malt whisky in 2016. Despite its relatively young age, Wolfburn has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, small-batch whiskies with a focus on traditional methods and craftsmanship.
Exploring Wolfburn’s Whisky Range
Wolfburn has carved out a reputation for crafting elegant, characterful single malts using traditional methods. Despite being relatively young, their whiskies have earned acclaim for their smoothness and complexity. Here’s a look at their core and special releases:
🌟 Core Range Highlights
- Northland
Matured in American oak quarter casks, this is their flagship whisky. It’s lightly smoky with a smooth, mellow finish. - Aurora
A rich and fruity dram matured in a mix of American oak and Spanish Oloroso sherry casks. Expect spice and depth. - Morven
For peat lovers, this one offers a delicate smokiness, matured in ex-bourbon barrels and quarter casks. - Langskip
Bottled at a bold 58% ABV, this single malt is matured in first-fill ex-bourbon casks. It’s intense, sweet, and full-bodied. - 10 Year Old
Their first permanent age-statement whisky, matured entirely in sherry casks. Rich, rounded, and deeply satisfying.
- 12 Year Old
A more mature offering, aged in second-fill Oloroso sherry hogsheads and ex-bourbon casks. Balanced and refined.
Limited Editions & Small Batches
Wolfburn also releases small batch and special edition whiskies, often with unique cask finishes like Cognac or experimental peated expressions. These are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Visiting Wolfburn
Wolfburn Distillery offers tours—and they’re refreshingly intimate and hands-on. Unlike many larger distilleries, Wolfburn doesn’t have a formal visitor centre, which means you get a close-up look at the actual production process, guided by passionate team members who know their craft inside out.
Tour Details
- Classic Tour & Tasting
- Duration: ~1.5 hours
- Includes a guided walk through the distillery—from the Still House to the warehouses
- Ends with a tasting of five award-winning whiskies
- Wheelchair accessible and assistive dog friendly
- Drivers receive a miniature “Driver’s Dram” to enjoy later
- Check website for current times and prices
There’s also a Premium Tour and Tasting for the real whisky enthusiast, and private and group tours can be arranged too.
Shop
There’s a shop on-site where you can purchase bottles of their whisky and branded merchandise. It’s a great way to take a piece of the Highlands home with you.
Café?
No café, but the warm hospitality and generous tastings more than make up for it. If you’re looking for a bite afterward, Thurso has several nearby restaurants and cafés within less than a five-minute drive
If you’re planning a whisky pilgrimage or just passing through the NC500 route, Wolfburn is a hidden gem worth the detour.
Contact Information
Address: Wolfburn Distillery, Henderson Park, Thurso, Caithness, KW14 7XW, Scotland
Phone Number: +44 (0)1847 891051
Website: wolfburn.com
Facebook: facebook.com
X: x.com
Contact Information
Address: Wolfburn Distillery, Henderson Park, Thurso, Caithness, KW14 7XW, Scotland
Phone Number: +44 (0)1847 891051
Website: wolfburn.com
Facebook: facebook.com
X: x.com
Why Visit Wolfburn Distillery?
Visiting Wolfburn offers a unique opportunity to explore a modern distillery with deep historical roots. Its commitment to traditional methods, combined with its innovative approach, makes it a standout destination for whisky lovers. The distillery’s remote location in the northern Highlands provides a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy areas.
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