Bowmore open dram good visitor centre

[John]

Dram good Bowmore, the award-winning Islay single malt whisky, has unveiled its new visitor centre - part of a £20 million investment programme being rolled out over the next five years.

Iseabail Mactaggart, Bowmore operations manager, said the centre "showcases the distillery's rich history" while making the most of the "stunning" lochside setting.

Bowmore is the oldest distillery on the island of Islay and no visit to the island is complete without a stop there - it is the greenest distillery in Europe, and it is where you'll see traditional whisky making in its full glory - from the rare sight of the malting of the barley, to the peat-fired kilns, to the famous warehouses which lie beside the shores of Loch Indaal. Whether you're a guest at the Distillery Cottages, taking part in the range of tours, or simply browsing in the shop, you are guaranteed the warmest of welcomes at Bowmore and, of course, a taste of what is regarded as one of the world's finest single malts.

The Bowmore Tour

Bowmore Distillery is a showcase for traditional workmanship - and your tour will capture that. Only in a handful of distilleries in Scotland will you see the craft of malting barley in practise - and where better to see that than in one of Scotland's oldest distilleries, Bowmore. You'll see - and smell - the effect of the peat on the spirit, and each step of the process right until the maturation in the finest of sherry and bourbon casks in our warehouses. Our No 1 vault is cool, dark and perfectly positioned right beside the sea shore - the ideal site to absorb Islay's pristine environment. At the end of your tour you'll get the chance to savour a dram of Bowmore 12 Years Old - the classic Bowmore. The Distillery Shop has a wide range of whiskies and gifts - so relax while you're with us, and feel free to indulge!

Bowmore Distillery Manager, Percy McPherson, knows Bowmore like no other and his bespoke Manager's Tours and Manager's Tastings are highly recommended. For a tour with a difference - and a good bit of Islay crack - why not join Percy and enjoy the benefit of his expertise - not just in the glass!