Since 1897 there has been a quiet revolution unfolding in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. In this idyllic spot, the naturally soft water of the Alt-na-frith burn is introduced to tender Scottish barley. Later, from the tall, slim copper stills of the Tomatin Distillery a mellow, fruity spirit is born. You have heard the myths of this often wild and beautiful place. Now hear the truth: there is a softer side to the Highlands. There is Tomatin.
Alt-na-frith burn
The origins of whisky production in Tomatin are hard to be precise about - the formal distillery that operates today was indeed established in 1897 but there is reason to believe that whisky production, albeit illegal, has been an important part of life in the area around Tomatin since the 1700s.
The name itself gives an insight into this secret past: “Tomatin” translates to “Hill of the Juniper Bush”, as juniper wood gives off no smoke while burning it has long been a favourite of illicit distillers who must keep their practice secret.
Monadhliath Mountains
Skipping forward to today, Tomatin Distillery produces a range of single malt and blended Scotch Whiskies, most notable of which is their award-winning Tomatin Single Malt. Claiming to offer the ‘softer side of the Highlands’, Tomatin Single Malts are unlike their traditional, rugged Highland single malt counterparts, and much lighter, fruitier and softer in taste.
The range is sold in over 60 international markets and in recent years has seen great growth as people around the world are discovering its varied and diverse range of whiskies.
Tomatin 12 Year Old
The distillery has a first class wood policy, overseen by their Master Distiller Graham Eunson, who recently celebrated 30 years’ in the whisky industry. This allows the team to put together a remarkable core range which includes various combinations of Bourbon, Sherry, Port and Virgin Oak cask maturations ranging from young, no-age statements up to an ongoing 36 year old (previously awarded ‘Best Scotch’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition). They also have an impressive range of older limited release single cask whiskies.
Tomatin has become known for their limited releases, which are matured in interesting casks including Caribbean Rum, various types of Sherry, Moscatel and several different wine casks. They have even produced short videos to accompany these drams and create more of an at-home experience in these Covid times.
Enjoy having a browse of our site and take a look at the following products we have from Tomatin available:
Our Regional Gift Set - Highland is perfect for those who love a traditional Highland dram and a classic taste of Scotland. Our triple pack of Tomatin single malts find their perfect match with The Drinks Bakery's parmesan, toasted pine nut & basil biscuits. Since we are celebrating the Highlands, we couldn’t resist Coco chocolatier’s Haggis Dark Chocolate with some of the spices used in haggis-making added for a bite of extra flavour (don’t worry – there’s no actual haggis!). Sip your Tomatin from our Glencairn glass and imagine the majestic Highland landscape.
Have a special evening at home with your loved one with our Lockdown Whisky Box - which includes Tomatin 18yo (5cl). Enjoy your own wee candle-lit whisky tasting party and raise a dram to each other whilst enjoying some nibbles, that perfectly pair with the whiskies we’ve chosen for you.
Our Luxury Single Malts & Food Match Tasting Kit which includes Tomatin 18yo (5cl) is for the discerning dram devotee in your life who can't resist a perfect pairing. Whether you’re nuts about nibbles, Coco loco or crackers about biscuits we have everything you need for the ultimate whisky and food match evening. We have selected some of our most sought-after single malts from across Scotland and paired them with a selection of mouth-watering snacks from local artisan producers. A perfect package for a culinary night in.
Images kindly supplied by Tomatin Distillery.
