Dartmoor Whisky Tasting Experience

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Dartmoor Whisky Tasting Experience

Dartmoor Whisky Distillery: Whisky Tasting Experience

At Dartmoor Whisky Distillery, we welcome you to explore the intriguing process of crafting single-malt whisky. Join us for an engaging whisky tasting experience led by our knowledgeable experts, where you’ll take a fascinating journey through the entire production process—from the barley fields to distillation and ging.

During this immersive experience, you’ll learn about the significance of our locally sourced water and how various cask types influence the maturation of whisky. Our guides will share insights into the distinct flavours and aromas that define each batch, deepening your appreciation for this exceptional spirit. Our dedicated team of whisky enthusiasts is here to answer your questions and provide valuable knowledge.

As you sample our unique whisky and gin offerings, you’ll truly appreciate the artistry behind every bottle. Whether you’re enjoying a day out with family and friends or marking a special milestone, our whisky and gin tasting experience is a delightful way to spend your afternoon. Plus, each guest will receive a complimentary drink—choose from a pint of beer, a gin and tonic, or a soft drink. Come experience Devon’s only whisky distillery for an unforgettable outing!

Dartmoor Whisky Distillery: Dartmoor Whisky Tasting Experience

The Ultimate Whisky Tasting Experience

As you step inside our distillery, you’ll immediately be enveloped by the inviting aroma of our expertly crafted whiskies. You’ll be welcomed by our founder, Greg, or one of our approachable team members, who will guide you to your designated table. The beautiful ambiance, both indoors and outdoors, creates the perfect backdrop for a memorable whisky tasting experience.

Before you sample a selection of our distinguished whiskies, we’ll share the history of our distillery and the unique flavours that distinguish our spirits. You’ll have the chance to observe the captivating process of turning malted barley mash into the fine whisky that evolves into our signature blend. Our charming copper still, fondly named “Mariannick,” will be in view as we explain our distillation process—from selecting the finest ingredients to the ageing techniques that impart unique character to our offerings. This context will enrich your understanding and enjoyment of each whisky in your tasting flight.

During the session, we’ll walk you through the distinctive attributes of our single-malt selections. Our team will also discuss the various casks utilised during the ageing process and how they influence the flavour profile of each bottle. We aim to provide you with a fun and enlightening experience, deepening your appreciation for the craft of whisky-making and the remarkable flavours in every expression. After your delightful tasting, we encourage you to take home a bottle of your favourite as a special keepsake from your visit.

As a token of our gratitude for your participation, you’ll receive a £5 discount on your selected bottle. This is a fantastic chance to either indulge in a whisky you love or explore new and exciting flavour profiles.

The tasting experience includes;

30 minute video presentation where you will;

Learn the craft of whisky distillation and understand how whisky is made
Hear about the history of Dartmoor Whisky Distillery and the story of our magnificent antique copper still
Discover the heritage of Dartmoor National Park and the various qualities that the natural geology brings to the flavour and quality of our whisky
Discover different barrel ageing techniques and the effect on flavour
Feel the warmth of the roaring still in action (when distilling)

Taste three single malt whisky expressions in a guided tasting
Dartmoor Gin sample
Have the opportunity to ask questions to our team
Share tasting notes and thoughts with other visitors
£5 discount on any 70cl bottle bought on the day

Book a Tasting experience!

The Story of your local Devon Whisky Distillery:

Several years ago, a group of whisky lovers embarked on an exciting journey to the remote Isle of Islay in the Hebrides, where they aimed to create their own distinctive whisky blend. Once they completed their project, they found themselves pondering why Devon, which boasts the perfect conditions for barley cultivation, pure spring water filtered through granite, and clean air, had yet to welcome a whisky distillery.

Devon is rich in local craftsmanship, featuring renowned establishments like Warminster Maltings and a variety of cask ale brewers. The area possesses all the key ingredients necessary for producing a top-notch single-malt whisky.

Motivated by his experience at Bruichladdich Distillery in 2009, Greg Millar was inspired to bring his vision of Dartmoor whisky to fruition. With the help of Simon Crow, they founded the Dartmoor Whisky Distillery, which has since thrived.

Production Process

Dartmoor Whisky is truly a product of the South West, made using local ingredients wherever possible.

Our barley is grown by Tim Cox at Preston Farm, just up the road from our distillery in Dartmoor.

Since Tuckers Maltings in Newton Abbot sadly closed its doors, our barley is now malted at Warminster Maltings in Somerset. Warminster are Britain’s oldest working maltings and malt barley using the traditional techniques of germination floors and good old-fashioned manpower, turning the barley with a malt shovel daily.

Our beer wash is crafted by local cask ale producers, following a unique recipe developed by our Master Distiller, Frank McHardy. During the first distillation, we elevate the beer wash’s alcohol content from approximately 9% to 25% ABV. After three rounds of primary distillation, the resulting ‘low wines’ are put back into the still to create the final spirit, reaching about 70% ABV. Once distilled, our spirit is transferred into specially selected barrels to begin its maturation.

Dartmoor Whisky ages in three distinct barrel types, which form the foundation of our three signature expressions: American oak Bourbon barrels, French oak wine barrels, and Spanish sherry barrels. Each type of barrel imparts its own unique character to the whisky, with some expressions bottled from a single barrel while others are expertly blended according to our Master Distiller’s preferences.

The Landscape of Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park is a breathtaking landscape, featuring an incredible array of natural scenery. The rugged moors seamlessly give way to rolling hills while age-old forests embrace meandering streams.

Amid this beautiful backdrop lies Dartmoor Whisky, meticulously crafted from premium ingredients sourced right from the park. The barley, essential to the whisky’s production, thrives in the park’s fertile soil, and the pristine spring water flows from the streams that wind through the moors.

Situated in Bovey Tracey, the distillery employs time-honoured methods to produce whisky distinguished by its unique flavour and character. Each batch is limited in quantity, ensuring that every bottle possesses its own special essence. Guests are welcome to take guided tours, offering an in-depth look at the rich traditions and techniques that define this craft.

From the serene hills to the sparkling streams, Dartmoor and the Bovey Tracey distillery unite to create a truly exceptional experience.