Edinburgh: Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting

If you’re curious about how Scotland’s national drink is made or just want a unique experience in Edinburgh’s historic Leith district, the Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting might catch your eye. This tour is relatively new on the scene but has already earned high praise for its innovative building and engaging stories. It’s a good pick whether you’re a whisky lover, a design enthusiast, or simply someone eager to see something different in Scotland’s vibrant spirits scene.

What really makes this experience shine for us are two standout features: First, the fact that it’s the UK’s first vertical distillery, which means you get to see a building unlike anything else in the world—and trust us, the views and structure are impressive. Second, the guided tastings that walk you through the process of whisky production and include not just spirits but also port and sherry samples, making it both educational and flavorful.

One possible consideration is the tour length and content — at about 1.5 hours, it’s a fairly focused experience, so if you’re after a longer, more immersive whisky journey, you might want to look at other options. Also, note that it’s not suitable for children under 7, so it’s more a grown-up activity, even if the building itself appeals to all ages.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, design enthusiasts, and those curious about modern distilling techniques. If any of that sounds like you, it’s worth considering for your Edinburgh visit.

Key Points

• Innovative Architecture: The UK’s first vertical whisky distillery, offering a one-of-a-kind view of distilling technology and design.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed, knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging and informative.
• Tastings & Fill-your-own Bottle: Enjoy sampling spirits, port, and sherry, plus take home a miniature bottle of New Make spirit.
• Accessible & Flexible: Wheelchair accessible, with options to cancel 24 hours in advance, and book now/pay later.
• Value for Money: At $40 per person, it offers a solid mix of education, tasting, and unique architecture.
• Great for Adults: Not suitable for children under 7, but perfect for adults who want a modern twist on whisky culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Building and Its Significance

From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice that the Port of Leith Distillery is not your typical whisky distillery. It proudly claims the title of the tallest distillery in the UK, and that’s more than just a bragging point. The building’s vertical design reflects a modern, pioneering approach to whisky production. No other distillery in the world looks quite like this, and that makes it a visual treat for architecture buffs.

Many visitors comment on how impressive the architecture is. As one reviewer puts it, “the building is really impressive,” and the views of the water from the top are simply amazing. Walking through the space, you get a sense of the innovation behind this project—it’s more than just a place to make spirits; it’s a statement about the future of whisky.

The Guided Tour & Stories

The 90-minute experience is hosted by a live guide, usually in English, who takes you through the building and the process of whisky making. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills — one reviewer mentions Fraser as an “excellent tour guide,” while others highlight Olivia and Anna for their professionalism and friendliness.

You’ll learn about the story of the distillery’s unlikely inception—how two friends from Edinburgh set out to build something different. They’ve combined their passion with years of research, leading to this innovative facility. It’s a good reminder that whisky isn’t just about tradition but also about ingenuity.

Filling Your Miniature Bottle & Tasting

A highlight of the tour is filling your own miniature bottle of New Make spirit. This is the raw spirit before it’s matured into whisky, giving you a taste of what’s to come once the process is complete. Many reviews mention the joy of having your own bottle as a souvenir.

The tasting segment is thoughtfully curated. You’ll sample several spirits, including New Make spirit, port, sherry, and table whisky. One review notes, “the tasting was superb,” with guides explaining each element’s role in the maturation process. The opportunity to compare different spirits side by side adds depth to your understanding.

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The QC Lab & Education

Another unique aspect is the QC Lab, where guides take you through the whisky-making process in more detail. Here, you get a behind-the-scenes look at how whisky is crafted, matured, and tested for quality. It’s a part of the experience that elevates it from a simple tasting to an educational journey.

Value and Pricing

Priced at $40 per person, this experience offers a good deal when considering the unique architecture, the guided insights, and the tastings. Many guests feel it’s worth the price, especially given the high quality of guides and the memorable setting. It’s not just a tasting; it’s an experience wrapped in modern design and storytelling.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour begins in the Distillery Lobby, with access via elevators up to Level 6. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider audience. The activity lasts about 1.5 hours, meaning it fits well into a busy sightseeing day. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Note that high-heeled shoes are not permitted, likely due to safety reasons within the building. Also, children under 7 are not allowed, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with younger kids.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.8/5 rating from 146 reviews. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning views, and the value offered. One reviewer shared that the tour was “insightful, funny, and the guide very knowledgeable,” while others mention that they are excited to try the distillery’s future releases.

Many note the friendly staff at the counter and the overall well-organized experience. A recurring theme is the personal touch guides bring, making the experience memorable and engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy modern architecture, are interested in whisky production, or want a unique photo opportunity, this tour could be a highlight of your Edinburgh trip. It’s especially suited for adults who appreciate a good story, a bit of tastings, and a look into the future of whisky-making.

While not designed for families with young children, those with older kids or teens who have an interest in spirits might find it enjoyable. But for the most part, it’s a grown-up experience focusing on craftsmanship, innovation, and tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old, mainly because of the nature of the tasting and safety considerations within the distillery.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity to fit into a full day of sightseeing.

Is there a chance to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, and you can reserve now & pay later, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. High heels are not allowed, probably due to safety reasons within the distillery.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, with entry via elevators to Level 6 Retail.

Can I buy additional spirits or souvenirs?
While the main focus is on the tasting and your miniature bottle, the building’s retail area might offer other products, but that is not explicitly detailed here.

What makes this distillery different from others?
It’s the tallest distillery in the UK and the first vertical whisky distillery in the world, which provides a visually stunning setting and a modern approach to traditional whisky production.

Is it worth the price?
Given the quality of guides, the unique architecture, the tastings, and the souvenir bottle, most guests find the $40 price point very reasonable, especially considering it’s an experience that combines education, scenery, and tasting.

Final Thoughts

The Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting offers a chance to see Edinburgh’s whisky scene from a fresh perspective. The building itself is a marvel, and the guided tastings make learning about whisky both accessible and enjoyable. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting something a little different from the usual distillery tours, blending modern design with traditional craftsmanship.

While it’s not an all-day adventure or suited for very young children, it packs a lot into its 90-minute format. If you’re fascinated by innovative architecture, curious about whisky production, or simply want an engaging activity with great views, you’ll likely find this tour well worth your time—and your money.

For anyone visiting Edinburgh and looking to add a modern, memorable experience to their list, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to book in advance, come ready to learn and taste, and enjoy the view from one of Scotland’s newest landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: