Scotland is famous for many things: the Highlands, the kilts, the haggis… and, of course, the world famous whiskies that are produced by distilleries all over the country. Affectionately known as ‘a wee dram’ by locals, Scottish whisky (note: ‘whisk-ey’ is for Irish and American liquors) has been mass-produced since the late 18th century with the first written mention dating back to 1494, apparently made by a friar named John Cor at Lindores Abbey in Fife.
The type and taste of a whisky greatly depends on the region of Scotland that it comes from. Lowland distilleries, like those in Glasgow, traditionally brew softer, lighter style single malts that are known as ‘Lowland Ladies’ and are typically fruitier and zestier.
So in celebration of this great drink and tradition, Leonardo Hotel Glasgow has put together this ‘wee’ whisky trail featuring bars, restaurants, and distilleries for you to sample, review and enjoy…
No whisky trail of Glasgow is complete without including this legendary bar, so we’ll start with it. Named after the earliest whisky stills and situated in the heart of Glasgow City Centre, The Pot Still is a landmark establishment for local and global whisky lovers. Stocking literally hundreds of malt whiskies from all over the world, and with the staff being connoisseurs, you are certain to be recommended a ‘dram’ suited to your palate and tastes. A fantastic local watering hole, The Pot Still is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to ease themselves into Scotch whisky tasting.
A highly awarded (25 in the last 12 years!) pub and restaurant, the Bon Accord is a local favourite and a partner bar with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Found opposite Charing Cross station, in the city centre, it proudly serves over 380 malt whiskies ranging from £3.00 to £160 a dram with ages between 5 and 43 years. Tastings can be arranged for groups of 6 people or more.
The Bon Accord also serves 1000 different beers and cask ales, and a variety of home-cooked pub classics. A great place to fill the stomach and carry on a day of whisky sampling, the menu is decently priced with main meals costing between £6 - £10.
Famously the home of Scotland’s only triple distilled single malt whisky, the Auchentoshan Distillery is a true and best representation of the Lowland flavour. Situated at the foot of the Kilpatrick hills, 25 minutes outside of Glasgow, Auchentoshan (meaning ‘corner of the field’) whisky is known to be a more delicate, smoother and lighter dram compared to other single malts due its inimitable production. The distillery has had six mindful owners since 1823 who have each handed down the unique, triple distillation process to ensure the quality and taste does not change. A visit to the Auchentoshan Distillery makes for a great day out with a number of tours, tastings and experiences available.
The Ben Nevis Bar is renowned for its traditional Scottish décor, atmosphere and beverages. Situated near Kelvingrove Park, the bar normally has at least 180 varieties of whisky to choose from, as well as hosting traditional Scottish music nights, occasional spontaneous music sessions, and whisky/beer tastings on selected evenings. A popular pub with locals, don’t be surprised if you end up righting the world’s wrongs with them.
Various Whiskies– Dominic Lockyer/Creative Commons(image size has been modified)
Quirky, classy and unique, The Ubiquitous Chip is a highly recommended pub and restaurant by almost everyone who wines and dines there. Besides having over 150 single malts available as well as a fantastic and prestigious wine list, the food is amongst the best in Glasgow. Set in a charming Victorian mews and courtyard, The Ubiquitous Chip’s three bars (yes, three!) accommodate every type of drinker whilst the roof terrace remains popular all year round. It also occasionally hosts a Whisky Club sampling some of the finest and rarest whiskies from all around Scotland. Costing £15 per person make sure to book in advance as places are very limited.
The Ubiquitous Chip also proudly claims to be bringing back Scottish cuisine with a mouth-watering selection of Scottish meat, game and fish dishes, the menu is on the expensive side but the quality of the food is well worth the cost. The set menus, such as the Sunday lunch, are more reasonably priced at around £20 per person
This fantastic pub/restaurant is a short twelve-minute subway ride from our Glasgow hotel.
Glengoyne Distillery– Nigel's Europe & beyond/Creative Commons(image size has been modified)Looking to go further into Scotland? Why not have a read of Leonardo Hotels Guide to… Scotlands’ Highlands?
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