Nestled on the dramatic Scottish coast, where the land meets the sea, lies the Glenglassaugh distillery.

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting this historic gem and taking a tour of its whisky-making magic.The minute you set eyes on Glenglassaugh, you’re captivated by its picturesque location. The distillery sits on the banks of the Glassaugh burn, overlooking the beautiful Sandend Bay. The salty sea air and the rolling green hills create a truly special atmosphere.

The tour began with a warm welcome from the knowledgeable staff. They walked us through the rich history of Glenglassaugh, founded in 1875 by Colonel James Moir. We learned about the distillery’s rise to success, its closure in 1986, and its eventual revival in 2008.

What truly impressed me was the passion and dedication of the Glenglassaugh team. They use time-honored methods, emphasizing quality over quantity. Witnessing the copper stills gleaming in the natural light and the traditional floor malting process was a fascinating glimpse into the dedication behind each bottle of Glenglassaugh whisky.

Of course, the highlight of the tour was the tasting. We sampled a selection of Glenglassaugh’s single malts, each boasting its own unique character. The Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old, matured in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and red wine casks, offered a delightful balance of fruit and spice. The Sandend expression, inspired by the nearby village and beach, surprised me with its tropical notes and a hint of sea salt. A new addition to their core range is the Portsoy expression. The whisky is matured in a combination of sherry, bourbon, and port casks.

Glenglassaugh whiskies

This gives it a complex flavor profile with notes of smoke, peat, tropical fruit, dark chocolate, and sea salt. Glenglassaugh Portsoy is a relatively new whisky, having only been released in 2019. However, it has already won over some critics, who have praised its unique flavor profile.

Glernglassaugh Distillery Stills

The tour wasn’t just about whisky-making.

The staff also shared fascinating stories about the local area and its connection to the distillery. They even offered an interesting insight to the old windmill that sits adjacent to the distillery. Leaving Glenglassaugh, I carried more than just a memory of a fantastic day. I took away a newfound appreciation for the craft of single malt whisky and the dedication of those who bring it to life. The stunning coastal scenery and the warm hospitality made the experience unforgettable.

Maturing Casks at Glenglassaugh

If you’re a whisky enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys a scenic escape, a visit to Glenglassaugh distillery is a must. It’s a journey to the heart of Scottish whisky-making, where tradition meets innovation, and the sea breeze infuses every sip.