The reopening of Scottish whisky distilleries for tourists

Diageo, owner of 12 whisky distilleries in Scotland and one of the largest players in the industry, has announced the start of phased opening of its visitor centers. They have been closed for the duration of the COVID-19 restrictions, and the current changes allow preparations for their reopening. Diageo will introduce a number of measures to increase visitor safety.

First, on April 26, Royal Lochnagar Distillery in Royal Deeside and Dalwhinnie in the Highlands opened. The Blair Athol Distillery was then opened in Pitlochry and the recently renovated Clynelish Distillery opened its doors to visitors on April 29.

“The distilleries will go beyond compliance with all relevant guidelines to build the confidence of staff, visitors and communities, including mandatory temperature checks for all visitors, limiting the number of visitors on site, screens in all retail units, ensuring physical distancing throughout, increased cleaning procedures and hand sanitiser stations. As part of the phased reopening Diageo today launched a short film to showcase what visitors can expect when they arrive –a warm welcome and an enjoyable, safe experience.” – said Diageo’s spokesperson.

Many other Scottish distilleries also announced reopening in late April, including four distilleries with the so-called Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail - Glenlivet, Strathisla, Glen Moray in Elgin and Glen Grant in Rothes. Dallas Dhu, Glenfiddich, Speyside Cooperage, Benromach and Cardhu will soon announce plans to reopen.

Source: www.pressandjournal.co.uk