The most important question answered: where does Ewan Morgan, Head of Whisky Outreach and National Luxury Ambassador for Diageo, drink when in Scotland?
When your job title reads "Head of Whisky Outreach," it's easy to justify visiting Scotland seven times in a single year. Whisky isn't just his job -- Morgan, born in Dufftown, Scotland (known as the 'Malt Whisky Capital of Scotland' and often referred to as the 'Whisky Capital of the World'), was literally born into a world of whisky. His father was the maltings manager at Tamdhu Distillery, and his grandfather was a brewer at Cardhu Distillery. Morgan began his career as a maltman and, after countless roles within the industry, is now considered one of the most knowledgeable whisky experts far and wide. Today, he oversees a large collection of some of the rarest Scotch casks (and I'm certain his personal collection rivals even the craziest of collectors).
This year, Morgan says the highlight of his career was attending the re-opening of Port Ellen Distillery on the Isle of Islay. "Seeing that distillery come back to life after 40+ years of closure was an emotional experience," he says. "I lived on Islay for a time when I was younger. To locals, it was seen as this iconic, sleeping firebrand waiting to be reawakened."
"To be there, watching the first casks being filled with some of the workers who were there when it closed in 1983, was a truly special moment I'll never forget," says Morgan.
For the holidays, Morgan is all about Johnnie Walker Ice Chalet -- a limited-edition whisky that screams après-ski accessory. "I love the silky, waxy texture of this whisky, which features a blend of whiskies from Dalwhinnie as well as Brora and Clynelish," he says. "Single Malt-wise, I'm very much enjoying the new Oban 10-Year-Old Coastal Orchard from the 2024 Special Releases Collection. It's finished in charred American oak barrels seasoned with Oloroso sherry, which impart baked apple notes and subtle wisps of sea-salted vanilla."
For a Christmas dram, Morgan is reaching for the cask-strength 1997 Lagavulin from the Prima & Ultima 4 series. "It has everything I love about Lagavulin, from the sweet, oily mouthfeel to the maritime, floral peatiness," he says. "It's truly an exemplary whisky!"
When visiting Scotland, here are a few of Morgan's favorite bars and distilleries to add to your list:
Perched on Islay's rugged southern coast, Lagavulin Distillery is a pilgrimage site for whisky lovers seeking its famously rich and peaty Single Malts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the distillery's traditional methods, from its distinctive pear-shaped stills to the age-old processes that define Lagavulin's unmistakable character. A tour offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the whisky-making magic, while the coveted Warehouse Tasting invites enthusiasts to sip exclusive cask-strength drams straight from the barrel. "Book the warehouse tasting to better appreciate Lagavulin's craftsmanship," says Morgan.
Since its opening in September 2021, Johnnie Walker Princes Street -- the immersive eight-floor visitor experience -- has become a must-stop in Edinburgh. The most popular tour is the Journey of Flavor, a 90-minute guided exploration of Johnnie Walker's history and whisky-making process, including personalized tastings. "Take the flavor quiz to tailor the tasting experience to your palate," says Morgan. Don't miss the 1820 Rooftop Bar, where you can enjoy some of the city's tastiest cocktails alongside a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle.
Situated within the historic Fife Arms Hotel, one of Scotland's most regal retreats, Bertie's Whisky Bar pays homage to King Edward VII, affectionately known as 'Bertie.' The bar boasts an impressive collection of over 365 whiskies, thoughtfully organized by flavor profiles -- fragrant, fruity, rich, and smoky -- allowing guests to embark on a tailored tasting journey. Whisky flights traverse Scotland's diverse whisky regions, while bespoke tastings highlight four distinctive drams. "When I was there in June, I requested Royal Lochnagar Select Reserve and was also able to try a very rare Convalmore 32-Year-Old -- a Speyside ghost distillery I hadn't sipped in years."
The Bon Accord has been a cornerstone of Glasgow's pub scene for over 40 years and is widely celebrated for its extensive selection of over 350 malt whiskies and a rotating offering of 800 ales annually. This family-run establishment pairs its impressive drink repertoire with hearty, traditional fare -- including the Bon Accord Steak Pie, a comfort food staple featuring tender meat encased in light pastry. Morgan notes to pair the signature steak pie with a locally brewed ale for an "authentic Glaswegian experience."
Disguised as an old-school barbershop, Panda & Sons, opened by award-winning bartender Iain McPherson, has been a mainstay in Edinburgh since 2013. This year, it ranks at No. 30 on The World's 50 Best Bars 2024 list. "Try the Birdcage cocktail with Lagavulin -- it's a signature drink featuring a rhubarb and lemongrass shrub presented under a smoke-filled dome for a multisensory experience," says Morgan.
Tucked away in the Scottish Highlands, Brora Distillery roared back to life in 2021 after almost 40 years as a ghost distillery, bringing its legendary waxy, lightly peated Single Malts to a new generation. This beautifully restored icon seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern craftsmanship, making it a must-visit for whisky lovers chasing a taste of history. Guided tours showcase traditional production methods, and limited-edition tastings offer the chance to savor Brora's rare and exclusive releases. Morgan notes to not miss out on the heritage tour to fully appreciate Brora's legacy.
Take a pause from Scottish food and dip into vibrant Southeast Asian flavors. "Run by an old friend of mine, Fraser Hamilton (formerly of Miami's Sweet Liberty), GaGa offers an eclectic menu inspired by Malaysian cuisine alongside inventive cocktails," says Morgan. Try the Nonya chicken curry or the GaGa fried chicken. The cocktails are just as standout as the food. "Complement the Nonya chicken curry with a whisky-based cocktail like the 'Ginger Whisky One' with Oban 14 Year Old, orange, lemon, ginger, and smoked pineapple to explore the harmonious blend of flavors," he adds. For a dessert and booze in one, try the Cranachan cocktail, with Talisker 10 Year Old, raspberries and cheesecake mix, topped with a biscuit crumble.
As Inverness' first whisky-centric bar, The Malt Room provides a cozy setting hidden up a narrow lane. With its vast selection of Single Malts, bourbon, rye, and Irish whiskies, it's a haven for whisky enthusiasts. "Opt for some of Diageo's 'Manager's Drams,'" says Morgan. These cask-strength whiskies are extremely rare and offer a unique chance to experience the spirit in its most authentic form."
After more than 40 years of silence, the legendary Port Ellen Distillery was resurrected in March 2024 -- blending its storied past with state-of-the-art innovation. Visitors can dive into its remarkable comeback on a guided tour, exploring both its historic roots and cutting-edge technology that's shaping the future of whisky-making. "Secure a spot on the guided tour to experience the distillery's revival firsthand," says Morgan, noting that the exclusive tastings offer a rare chance to sample coveted expressions, like the limited Port Ellen Gemini release.
Steeped in literary history as the favored haunt of fictional detective Inspector Rebus, The Oxford Bar delivers a no-frills experience focusing on quality drinks and a traditional pub atmosphere. "Enjoy a dram of Lagavulin alongside their renowned pint of Guinness for a quintessential Edinburgh pub experience," says Morgan.