Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery
Discover golden honeyed whisky at the Dewar family's Highland distillery, where pure Pitilie Burn water and oak casks craft Scotch perfection amid Perthshire's lush valleys.
Nestled on the outskirts of Aberfeldy in the Scottish Highlands, Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery is the spiritual home of Dewar's blended Scotch, producing its signature single malt since 1898. Tours reveal the craft of whisky-making with its honeyed richness, warehouse visits, and tastings amid stunning Perthshire scenery.
A brief summary to John Dewars & Sons
- Aberfeldy, PH15 2EB, GB
- Click to display
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tours online in advance, especially for cask tastings; non-drinkers can opt for takeaway gifts.
- Visit the warehouse for blending demos and fill-your-own bottle from hand-selected casks.
- Explore the café for light bites and relax in the whisky lounge with scenic Highland views.
- Combine with a walk along the Pitilie Burn or nearby Aberfeldy trails for nature and whisky.
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Getting There
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Car
From A9, take Ballinluig junction to A827 into Aberfeldy; turn left at distillery outskirts, up hill to main car park (free, disabled spots available). 20min from Pitlochry, 1hr from Perth.
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Bus
Perth bus 23 stops on request outside; from Pitlochry, bus 24 to Ballinluig then 23. Ring of Breadalbane seasonal circular route. Single taxi in town: +44 (0)1887 820370.
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Foot/Bike
0.7mi/1.1km from Aberfeldy square via Dunkeld St (A827); follow path over footbridge to visitor centre. Bike racks at entrance; dismount on site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Visitor Center
Discover more about John Dewars & Sons
History and Heritage
Founded in 1896 by John A. Dewar Jr. and Thomas Dewar, the distillery opened in 1898 to supply malt whisky for their father's renowned Dewar's blends. Located near John Dewar's birthplace, it stands as the only distillery built by the Dewar family, enduring through world wars and industry changes. Today owned by Bacardi, it remains central to Dewar's production, the largest malt component in their top-selling American Scotch.The Distillation Process
Aberfeldy draws pure water from the Pitilie Burn, famed for alluvial gold deposits, which imparts its distinctive honeyed notes. Malted barley undergoes longer fermentation for richer esters, then slow distillation in traditional copper Alembic pot stills by Forsyths. The spirit matures in premium oak casks—Bourbon barrels, Sherry hogsheads, and butts—under Malt Master Stephanie Macleod's watchful eye, creating a balanced, fruity single malt with golden character.Visitor Experience
The Dewar's World of Whisky visitor centre offers guided tours through the working distillery, atmospheric warehouses, and interactive heritage exhibition. Learn blending secrets, watch films on Scotch origins, and enjoy tutored tastings of Aberfeldy 12-year-old alongside Dewar's. Exclusive options include cask tastings and filling your own bottle from selected casks in the whisky lounge.Surroundings and Access
Set amid green hills and streams in Highland Perthshire, the distillery boasts an iconic pagoda rooftop designed by Charles Doig. Easily reached by car via A827, bus from Perth or Pitlochry, or a short walk/bike from Aberfeldy centre (0.7 miles). Free parking, café with sandwiches and local treats, and shop for exclusive bottlings enhance the visit.Legacy of Excellence
From railway convenience in its founding era to modern expansions like the 1972 still upgrades and 2000 visitor centre, Aberfeldy embodies Scotch perfection. Its double-aging process ensures extra smoothness, making it a must for whisky enthusiasts exploring Perthshire's majestic landscapes.Explore the best of what John Dewars & Sons has to offer
More about Aberfeldy
Explore Aberfeldy, a charming town in the Scottish Highlands, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant arts scene. A perfect blend of adventure and culture.
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