A drink lover's guide to Perth
Perth, Scotland, is a paradise for drinks enthusiasts, offering a rich history of whisky-making, a thriving gin scene, and a growing craft beer movement. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur, a gin lover, or a fan of small-batch brews, Perth has something to satisfy your taste buds. This guide explores the best distilleries, breweries, and bars in and around Perth where you can enjoy Scotland’s finest beverages.
Whisky in Perth: Where to taste Scotland’s liquid gold
Perth has long been associated with whisky, once home to some of Scotland’s most famous whisky blenders. Today, visitors can experience the rich heritage of whisky-making through local distilleries and whisky bars.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
Location: Aberfeldy, approximately 30 miles from Perth.
What to Expect: This distillery, founded by John Dewar & Sons, is a must-visit for whisky lovers. The experience includes guided tours of the whisky-making process, a whisky-tasting session, and access to an interactive heritage exhibition. The on-site bar allows visitors to sample exclusive single malts and expertly crafted whisky cocktails.
Best For: Whisky history buffs and those who enjoy a smooth Highland malt.
We always look forward to opening the doors of our working whisky distillery in Aberfeldy, in the heart of the scenic Perthshire countryside, nestled at the foot of the Scottish Highlands. It was here that our pursuit of Scotch whisky perfection began in 1898 when our stills first produced the beautifully balanced single malt whisky at the heart of the Dewar’s blend.
Enjoy our interactive exhibition and discover how we double age for extra smoothness. Afterwards, relax in our welcoming Café and Whisky Lounge and enjoy a whisky tasting from the John Dewar & Sons Fine Scotch Whisky Emporium or fill your own bottle from our hand-selected casks.
Our Dewar's Aberfeldy Experience, Connoisseur Experience, Become a Blender Experience and Dram of Your Dreams Experience are all available to book online.
Glenturret Distillery
Location: Crieff, about 20 miles from Perth.
What to Expect: Scotland’s oldest working distillery, Glenturret, offers a range of tours that dive into traditional whisky-making techniques. Visitors can tour the distillery, sample limited-edition releases, and even try their hand at blending their own whisky.
Best For: Those looking for a deep dive into the craftsmanship of single malt whisky.
At The Glenturret, where tradition meets perfection, each drop of our whisky is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship. Located in the picturesque ‘Hosh’, Crieff, we warmly invite you to step into our world, where every corner of our distillery whispers stories of heritage and each tasting reveals the artistry behind our single malts.
Perth Whisky Bars
The Venue: Known for its extensive whisky collection and knowledgeable staff who can recommend drams based on your taste preferences.
Gin in Perth: The rise of local distilleries
Scotland’s gin industry has exploded in recent years, and Perth is no exception. The city is home to boutique distilleries producing innovative, locally inspired gins.
Perth Distillery Co.
Location: Perth city centre.
What to Expect: This small-batch distillery specializes in craft gin infused with locally sourced botanicals. Visitors can tour the distillery, learn about the gin-making process, and enjoy guided tastings of their unique creations.
Best For: Gin lovers who appreciate locally inspired flavours.
In the Heart of Scotland lies Perth, a city steeped in history and imbued with a spirit as rich as the land itself where among its former cobblestoned streets and ancient monuments, a unique Destiny is stirring.
Born in 2017 Perth Gin is distilled and bottled in the Fair City, the former crowning place of Scottish Kings and the new home to the historic Stone of Destiny.
Where to enjoy a great Gin & Tonic in Perth
The Gin Bothy Experience (nearby in Glamis): A unique tasting experience where you can sample a variety of flavoured and classic gins in a rustic setting.
Craft Beer in Perth: Where to find the best brews
Perthshire’s craft beer scene has grown significantly, with breweries focusing on traditional methods and experimental styles. Whether you enjoy hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or crisp lagers, there’s something for every beer enthusiast.
Wasted Degrees Brewing
Location: Pitlochry, around 30 miles north of Perth.
What to Expect: This independent brewery focuses on bold and experimental beers, from hazy IPAs to rich porters. Their taproom is a great place to sample new releases straight from the source.
Best For: Craft beer lovers who enjoy unique and innovative flavours.
Our brewery focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and renewable energy to craft its beers. Their range includes bold IPAs, smooth stouts, and seasonal experimental brews, offering something for every craft beer enthusiast. Visitors can enjoy tastings at their on-site taproom, where fresh pints are poured straight from the source. Wasted Degrees also hosts community events and collaborates with other Scottish brewers, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to experience innovative, eco-conscious brewing in the heart of Scotland.
Best Craft Beer Pubs in Perth
Brewdog - Perth: A lively bar with a rotating selection of Scottish and international craft beers.
Cullach Brewing: A must-visit for beer enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of local and global craft beers on tap.
Perth is a fantastic destination for whisky, gin, and craft beer enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to taste Scotland’s finest drinks. Whether you're exploring historic whisky distilleries, discovering small-batch gin makers, or enjoying a pint of local craft beer, Perth offers a rich and diverse drinks scene. Raise a glass and enjoy the best of what Scotland’s “Fair City” has to offer!