Lowland whisky is the light, gentle and elegant side of Scotch. Produced across the more populated south of Scotland — below the Highland Line that runs roughly from Greenock to Stonehaven — Lowland malts are typically soft, grassy and floral, and have long been nicknamed the “Lowland Ladies” for their delicate character.
Where is the Lowland whisky region?
The Lowland region covers everything south of the Highland Line, taking in the central belt around Glasgow and Edinburgh, the Borders and Dumfries & Galloway. Historically this was the home of Scotland’s big grain distilleries and much of its blending industry, but a wave of new malt distilleries has revitalised the region in recent years.
The Lowland style
Lowland malts are generally light, fresh and approachable — think grass, honeysuckle, citrus and cereal, with little or no peat. Several Lowland distilleries traditionally use triple distillation, which produces an especially smooth, delicate spirit and makes these whiskies a great introduction for newcomers.
Key Lowland distilleries
The classic Lowland trio is:
- Auchentoshan — near Glasgow, and unusual for being triple-distilled.
- Glenkinchie — “the Edinburgh Malt”, just outside the capital and part of the Johnnie Walker “Four Corners”.
- Bladnoch — Scotland’s most southerly distillery, in Wigtownshire.
They have been joined by a new generation of distilleries including Kingsbarns, Daftmill, Annandale, Clydeside, Holyrood and Lindores Abbey, making the Lowlands one of the most dynamic regions to watch. For more, see our guide to the best whisky distilleries to visit and our overview of Scotch whisky regions.
Visiting Lowland distilleries
The Lowlands are the easiest region to reach, with several distilleries within a short drive — or even public transport ride — of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Glenkinchie makes a popular half-day trip from Edinburgh, while Auchentoshan and the Clydeside Distillery are close to Glasgow, so a car is not essential — see Scotland without a car.
Frequently asked questions
What is Lowland whisky?
Lowland is the whisky region covering southern Scotland, below the Highland Line. Its malts are typically light, soft and floral, often triple-distilled.
What does Lowland whisky taste like?
Delicate and fresh — grassy, floral and citrusy, with cereal notes and little or no peat smoke.
Which distilleries are in the Lowlands?
The traditional trio is Auchentoshan, Glenkinchie and Bladnoch, now joined by newer distilleries such as Kingsbarns, Daftmill, Annandale and Clydeside.
Can you visit Lowland distilleries from Edinburgh or Glasgow?
Yes — Glenkinchie is an easy trip from Edinburgh, and Auchentoshan and Clydeside are close to Glasgow, making the Lowlands very accessible.
