In every workshop of the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, there is an impeccable level of cleanliness and order; everything is painted and gleaming. It's said that this beauty is maintained because King Charles could visit at any moment, as he is known to appreciate the whisky produced here. While this may be just a tale, the cleanliness and order are certainly real.
The process of whisky brewing at Royal Lochnagar is a meticulous one, essential for transforming raw ingredients into the rich and complex spirit that whisky is known for. The brewing process begins with malting the barley, followed by mashing, where the barley is mixed with hot water to extract the sugars. This mash is then fermented in large vats, where yeast converts the sugars into alcohol, creating a liquid known as "wash."
The wash is distilled twice in copper stills, which helps concentrate the alcohol and refine the flavors. During this process, the air is filled with a warm, earthy aroma that blends the scent of barley, yeast, and a hint of smoke from the peated coal used in some recipes.
At Royal Lochnagar, the vats used in the brewing process are made of stainless steel, as is common in modern distilleries. However, in a nod to tradition, these vats are topped with wooden lids, just as they were in the past. This combination of modern efficiency and historical aesthetics not only preserves the heritage but also contributes to the distillery's unique character. The wooden lids add a subtle, natural element to the otherwise sleek, industrial appearance, linking the past with the present in a way that is distinctly Royal Lochnagar.
Your day begins with a visit to the renowned Speyside Cooperage, where you witness the craftsmanship of barrel-making for whisky. Immersed in tradition, you then head to the Royal Lochnagar Distillery near Balmoral Castle, where you enjoy a whisky tasting and learn about its production secrets.
Next, you explore Balmoral Castle, the royal family’s majestic estate, strolling through its gardens and grand interiors. Afterward, you journey to Edinburgh, where an elegant dinner at "The Dome" awaits, followed by a serene stroll through the Old Town. Your day concludes with a restful night at the Virgin Hotel on Victoria Street, where modern luxury meets historical charm.
