The Glenlivet Distillery

The Glenlivet holds a unique place in whisky history as the first distillery in the Highlands to take out a licence under the Excise Act of 1823, emerging from the shadows of illicit distillation to become the benchmark against which all Speyside whiskies would be measured. George Smith, the founder, faced death threats from his former fellow smugglers for 'going legal', and carried pistols for protection—a story that captures the wild origins of Scotland's national drink.

The distillery sits in a remote glen that was once notorious for illegal whisky production—the clear mountain water, abundant peat, and hidden valleys made it perfect for evading the excisemen. Today that same water, drawn from Josie's Well, gives The Glenlivet its distinctive smooth, fruity character. The glen's isolation, which once protected smugglers, now provides a beautiful and atmospheric setting for visitors.

A visit to The Glenlivet combines distillery touring with the chance to explore one of Speyside's most scenic corners. The standard tour covers the whisky-making process and includes tastings, while premium experiences offer deeper dives into cask selection and maturation. The surrounding Glenlivet Estate offers excellent walking, including routes that follow the old smugglers' paths through the hills. Two centuries after George Smith risked his life to make legal whisky, The Glenlivet remains one of the world's most respected single malts.