Near Inverness: The Singleton Craft and Cocktail Experience

If you’re visiting the Scottish Highlands and are curious about whisky beyond just tasting a dram, the Singleton Craft and Cocktail Experience offers a surprisingly engaging peek behind the scenes. This 75-minute tour in Muir of Ord isn’t just about sipping whisky—it’s a journey through the craft, science, and artistry that goes into every bottle.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to learn about The Singleton’s unique “Slow Craft” process, which emphasizes patience and craftsmanship in aging. Second, the guided tasting includes a neat dram of The Singleton, along with two expertly curated cocktails—perfect for those wanting to explore whisky cocktails beyond the usual whisky on the rocks. Third, the mini masterclass on cocktail creation offers practical tips that you could take home and impress friends with.

One minor consideration? The tour lasts just over an hour, so it’s quite focused. If you’re after a more in-depth whisky production tour or a full-blown distillery experience, this might feel a little too brief. Still, for those who want a taste of Highland whisky culture with a modern twist, it hits the right notes.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers, whisky newcomers, or anyone wanting a quick, fun, and informative Highland experience. It’s also perfect if you’re looking to combine education with a touch of mixology—without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Concise 75-minute experience blending whisky education and cocktail tasting
• Learn about The Singleton’s “Slow Craft” method that creates award-winning whiskies
• Includes tasting of The Singleton neat and two curated cocktails
• Mini masterclass offers practical skills for making cocktails at home
• Accessible for all, including those in a wheelchair or with limited time
• Great value at $32 per person, with engaging guides and authentic tastings

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Experience

The experience begins at The Singleton Distillery in Muir of Ord, a key Highland whisky hub known for its innovative “Slow Craft” process. The tour guides, like Isaac and Hazel—who get consistent praise—bring warmth and expertise that make complex topics feel approachable. Their enthusiasm shows in how they explain the distillation process and the maturation of whisky, making sure you’re not just told facts but genuinely understand the artistry behind each sip.

The Whisky-Making Tour

The guided tour opens with a clear explanation of how The Singleton whiskies are crafted. You’ll learn about the distillery’s commitment to “Slow Craft,” a philosophy that prioritizes patience and meticulous attention during fermentation and aging. This approach results in a multi-award-winning product that’s appreciated worldwide. The guides use simple language but reveal enough depth for you to appreciate the nuances involved.

What’s particularly interesting here is how the process influences flavor profiles. For example, you might discover that longer fermentation and careful cask selection contribute to the whisky’s smoothness and complexity. In fact, one review highlights how Isaac enthusiastically explained the process, making the technical parts both accessible and engaging.

Tasting The Singleton Neat

After the tour, you’ll get to sample The Singleton neat. Given the reviews—like the one from Alan stating, “Very informative and the cocktails were delicious”—it’s clear that the whisky is presented with care. Tasting the whisky straight is the perfect way to appreciate its subtle flavors and balanced profile before moving on to the cocktails.

The Cocktail Sampling and Mini Masterclass

Next up are two thoughtfully curated cocktails designed to showcase the whisky’s versatility. Expect well-balanced drinks that highlight different flavor aspects of The Singleton. The guides don’t just serve drinks—they host a mini masterclass, demonstrating how you can recreate these cocktails at home. This practical aspect adds great value, especially for those interested in mixology.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Shopping and Relaxing in the Bar

The experience concludes with time in the distillery’s store and bar. Here, you can sip on your favorite dram or a curated cocktail while browsing whisky bottles and memorabilia. The warm reception and welcoming environment make it a comfortable spot to relax, chat, or make a purchase.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Engaging Guides and Authentic Insights

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially Isaac and Hazel, for their professionalism and friendly demeanor. Irene from Italy called Hazel an “excellent host” and appreciated her clear explanations. Their enthusiasm makes the technical parts of whisky-making easy to grasp, even if you’re new to the subject.

Value and Price Point

At $32 per person for a 75-minute experience, this tour offers remarkable value. It includes a guided tour, a neat whisky, two cocktails, and a mini masterclass—more than enough to justify the cost. Compared to larger distillery tours that often last longer and cost more, this experience is a perfect quick hit of Highland culture and craftsmanship.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility concerns. The duration fits well into a Highland day trip itinerary, especially if you’re exploring Inverness or nearby attractions. The meeting point is straightforward, and the activity offers free cancellation up to two days in advance, providing peace of mind.

What You Might Find Missing

While brief, some might wish for a more extended look at the distillery or tastings, especially if they’re dedicated whisky aficionados. But for most casual visitors, the balance of education and tasting feels just right.

A Look at the Reviews

The consistent 4.8/5 rating across 10 reviews demonstrates high satisfaction. Specific praise for the guides’ friendliness and depth of knowledge suggests a well-run, engaging experience. Comments like “Very informative” and “Tour well organized” assure you that your time will be well spent.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

Whisky newbies will appreciate the straightforward explanations and the opportunity to taste and learn without feeling overwhelmed. Casual travelers looking for a quick Highland cultural fix will find it ideal. Couples and small groups will enjoy the intimate, guided nature of the tour, and cocktail lovers will especially enjoy the mini masterclass.

However, if you’re after an in-depth distillery walkthrough or a full-scale whisky production tour, you might find this a bit light. Still, for a compact taste of Highland whisky craftsmanship combined with a fun cocktail session, this experience checks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This tour packs a lot into just over an hour, making it a fantastic choice for those who want an engaging, educational, and tasty Highland whisky experience without a hefty time commitment. The inclusion of a whisky tasting, cocktail samples, and a mini masterclass offers genuine value and memorable moments. The guides’ personable approach turns technical details into an accessible and enjoyable narrative, perfect for whisky novices and enthusiasts alike.

The Singleton Craft and Cocktail Experience is especially suited for travelers seeking a brief but meaningful insight into Highland whisky-making combined with hands-on cocktail skills. It’s a well-organized, friendly, and affordable way to deepen your appreciation of Scottish whisky culture—whether you’re here for the scenery, the history, or simply to enjoy a good drink.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children over 8 years old can participate if accompanied by an adult. However, the experience is geared towards adults due to the whisky tasting.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it a quick yet rundown.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility concerns to enjoy the experience.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to two days in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guided overview of the whisky-making process, a tasting of The Singleton neat, two curated cocktails, and a mini masterclass on cocktail making.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll meet directly at The Singleton Distillery in Muir of Ord, the designated starting point for this experience.

This experience offers a well-rounded, fun, and insightful way to understand Highland whisky while enjoying some great drinks. Perfect for a quick cultural fix or a relaxing afternoon in the Highlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: