Tullibardine is a Highland single malt distillery in the Perthshire village of Blackford, on the edge of the Gleneagles estate. Known for its long history, its pure Highland spring water and — since coming under French ownership — a distinctive line of wine-cask-finished whiskies, Tullibardine is one of the most accessible distilleries to visit thanks to its position right beside the A9.
History of Tullibardine
Blackford has been associated with brewing and distilling for centuries, drawing on the same prized spring water that made the village famous. The modern Tullibardine Distillery was built in 1949 on the site of an old brewery, designed by the celebrated distillery architect William Delmé-Evans — making it one of the first new Scottish malt distilleries of the 20th century.
Like many distilleries it endured difficult decades, falling silent in 1994 before being revived in 2003. In 2011 it was bought by Terroir Distillers, part of the French wine group Picard, a change of ownership that would shape the whisky it makes today.
The distillery today
Under French ownership, Tullibardine has leaned into its wine connections, finishing many of its whiskies in casks that once held fine French wines — a natural fit given its parent company’s vineyards. The result is a range that blends classic Highland malt character with the added fruit, spice and colour that wine casks bring.
The distillery also benefits from its location in Blackford, a village long celebrated for the purity of its water — the same source that supplies one of Scotland’s best-known bottled spring waters.
The whisky
Tullibardine’s core range is built around its house style and its wine-cask finishes. It typically includes:
- Tullibardine Sovereign — the entry point, matured in first-fill bourbon barrels; fruity, honeyed and approachable.
- Tullibardine 225 Sauternes — finished in sweet Sauternes wine casks (225 litres), adding stone-fruit richness.
- Tullibardine 228 Burgundy — a red-wine finish giving berry fruit and spice.
- Tullibardine 500 Sherry — richer and more traditional, finished in sherry butts.
- Aged statements such as the 20 and 25 Year Old for those wanting more depth.
The overall character is a soft, fruity Highland malt lifted by the flavours of the wine casks. To put it in context, see our guide to the best whisky distilleries to visit and our overview of Scotland’s whisky regions.
Visiting Tullibardine Distillery
Tullibardine has a welcoming visitor centre offering a range of tours and tastings, from an introductory distillery tour to more in-depth experiences that explore its wine-cask maturation. Tours take in the traditional production process and usually end with a tasting of the range, and the shop stocks distillery exclusives. As always, booking ahead is wise in the busy summer months.
Where is Tullibardine and how to get there
Tullibardine is in Blackford, Perthshire, right beside the A9 between Stirling and Perth and just a couple of miles from Gleneagles and Auchterarder. That makes it one of the easiest distilleries to reach on a road trip through central Scotland, and a natural stop between the Lowlands and the Highlands or Cairngorms.
Gleneagles railway station is nearby, and the area is also home to some of Scotland’s finest dining — including two-star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie and The Glenturret Lalique, both featured in our guide to Michelin-star restaurants in Scotland. Tullibardine slots neatly into several of our Scotland itineraries.
Tips for visiting
- Book ahead for tours in summer and around whisky festivals.
- Use a designated driver or the train — the drink-drive limit in Scotland is low.
- Pair it with Perthshire — Gleneagles, Crieff and the Cairngorms are all close by.
- Try the wine finishes side by side to taste how different casks shape the spirit.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Tullibardine Distillery?
Tullibardine is in Blackford, Perthshire, beside the A9 near Gleneagles, between Stirling and Perth in central Scotland.
Is Tullibardine a Highland whisky?
Yes — Tullibardine is a Highland single malt, made in Perthshire.
What is Tullibardine known for?
Its long history, Blackford’s pure spring water, and its range of wine-cask-finished whiskies (Sauternes, Burgundy and sherry) reflecting its French ownership.
Can you visit Tullibardine Distillery?
Yes. The visitor centre offers guided tours and tastings; its position right off the A9 near Gleneagles makes it very easy to reach.
Who owns Tullibardine?
Tullibardine is owned by Terroir Distillers, part of the French wine group Picard, which acquired it in 2011.
