About Dalmore Distillery
Dalmore Distillery sits on the southern shore of the Cromarty Firth near Alness, producing one of Scotland's most recognised and prestigious single malts. Founded in 1839, Dalmore is renowned for its unusual 12-sided wash stills — unique in Scotch whisky production — and for its rich, sherried, chocolate-orange character. The stag's head crest that adorns every bottle dates to 1263, when a Mackenzie clan chief saved King Alexander III from a charging stag; the grateful king granted the clan the right to bear the stag as their emblem. Dalmore has set multiple world records at auction, with rare bottlings selling for hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Highlights
12-sided stills unique in Scotch whisky
Stag's head emblem and royal warrant history
Distillery on the Cromarty Firth shore
World-record auction prices for vintage bottlings
Premium tasting experiences available
🚐 Motorhome Tip
Good visitor centre with car park. The distillery sits right on the Cromarty Firth shore — the views across the firth while you wait for your tour are excellent. Book well ahead for premium tasting experiences. Standard tours are usually available without much advance notice outside summer.
Distillery Details
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Tours: Tours are available — booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially in summer. See
official website for latest tour times and prices.
🚗 Drink Driving: Always designate a driver or use a taxi. NC500 roads are remote and winding — drink driving is dangerous and illegal. Most distilleries offer non-alcoholic tasting options and miniature bottles to take away for later.
Getting There
On the B817 at Alness, just off the A9. Signed from the main road. About 25 miles north of Inverness.
Best Time to Visit
Year round. Book tours online in advance. The firth views are lovely in morning light.
Nearby Attractions
