Port of Leith Distillery — Local services in City of Edinburgh

From whisky novice to fascinated fan, a review of the Port of Leith Distillery tour.

As a resident with a front-row seat to its construction, I couldn't miss the chance to tour the world's tallest vertical whisky distillery. Nestled in Leith, this marvel of green engineering uses natural resources like an underground stream and clever gravity-powered pipes to create its magic. Stormy weather added a dramatic backdrop to the experience, with occasional wind gusts whispering through the metal lattice floors – not for the faint of heart!

Highlights:

Bird's-eye view of whisky-making: The tour starts at the top, slowly descending past towering vats and gleaming machinery. This unique perspective reveals the intricate dance of gravity and innovation that defines Port of Leith's whisky-making process. Whisky education, not just a tasting: From learning about the "drink safe" (who knew?) to the science of different yeast strains, the tour goes beyond just sips and swirls. You'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the craft and history of this beloved spirit. Tantalizing tastes: Though the distillery isn't yet producing its own whisky, a selection of Muckle Brig's other creations, including two fascinatingly different sibling whiskies, lets you experience the potential magic to come. Beyond the tour: A chic bar and restaurant await post-tour, offering more than just peanuts and crisps. Think hearty steak pies, hand-cut chips, and an impressive cocktail menu.

Who should go? Whisky enthusiasts: Dive deep into the fascinating world of whisky-making and witness the future of sustainable distilling. Curious minds: Even if whisky isn't your thing, the engineering marvel and innovative story of Port of Leith are worth the visit. Socializers: The bar and restaurant offer a perfect setting for a unique office outing or gathering with friends.

Caveats: Heights not for everyone: The open floors and metal walkways might not be suitable for those with a fear of heights. No heels or kids: Safety first! Leave the stilettos and little ones at home. Drivers appreciated: Thank you for being the designated driver! A special "driver pack" awaits you as a reward.

Overall: The Port of Leith Distillery tour is an exhilarating experience, offering a glimpse into the future of whisky-making while celebrating its rich history. Whether you're a seasoned whisky drinker or simply curious about this architectural wonder, I highly recommend this unique and thrilling tour. Just remember, leave the heels at home and embrace the wind in your hair (and the whisky in...

I came here with two people who aren't into whiskey, so we passed on the distillery tour and just went straight to the bar. Mostly cos we were looking for a nice place for a real cocktail and good whiskies in Leith.

After previously trying some very local whiskies at a nearby pub, I was in the mood to up my game a little and this place does not disappoint.

Their whisky selection is out of this world. The menu is insane. It's a like a catalogue, a library even. While I had wanted to try their own brand offerings, they only opening less than a year ago, so that wasn't on the cards. I did try their "From The Vaults" tasting flight which featured indie drams from Edinburgh's Scotch Malt Whisky Society. It was quite an experience, and while all were good and unique in their own ways, I really loved 2 of the 4.

My friends ordered signature cocktails and really enjoyed those, too. I tried the Kingfisher. Great flavours, but it didn't need the foam. If anything, the siphoned foam was a huge distraction from the excellent profile and balance of the cocktail itself. We all agreed it would be better without it. But points for trying.

The venue itself is bright and clean and spacious. Clean and modern with nice views of the harbour. The bar is stacked with bottles of whisky from all over the world and I can't imagine anybody coming here and being disappointed in the variety and selection.

Service was good enough at the bar. Not super attentive, and they didn't engage much, so I think when people are genuinely interested in flights and cocktails, a little bit of personal attention from the bar staff is helpful for letting them know what they're drinking and ordering. The hostess was awesome.

We ended up staying for more than just one drink like we had planned because it was so unpretentious for such a fancy whisky spot, and the drinks were excellent quality. And if it can make 2 non-whiskey-drinkers happy, it must be doing something right. I would totally recommend this spot for all your whiskey needs in Leith, if you want a different atmosphere than a pub...

Avoid this tour.

Before visiting this factory / distillery, consider this :

-50 £ for 2 -this is not an active distillery : they haven't yet produced or launch any production but they forgot to tell you. -you will visit perfectly clean rooms, tools, because any liquid or machines has ever worked. It's like visiting a freshly built factory with 0 product. -maturing or aging into casks is not here but planned to be in another place far from here so you won't see anything -I repeat they created nothing. Whisky takes years to be created, you'll really taste their product in the next few years not before. -The tasting experience is really bad : 2 liquids distilled in Glasgow in their labs but with any aging : it's like drinking alcohol straight from the still. 0 utility. It could be gin or vodka. 3 other liquids : 1 port, 1 sherry wine, 1 whisky from another distillery. Ridiculous. -The story telling is a marketing scam : 2 friends in their garden (1 from a business school) distilling at home with passion. Truth is : millions £ to create this huge building, powerpoints to show their future labels on the bottle, printed photos of the team with smile. Oh yes they will also planned to use sometimes tap water from Edinburgh for their products... far from mountain water.

Really ? How can you make a tour of something that dont even has been created and not even inform about it ? Nice to visit fir investors but a powerpoint should be enough. Create then promote not...