The famous Highlander Inn! If you are into whisky (I mean really into whisky) then there is a good chance you know about the Highlander Inn and also a good chance that you’ve already been. If you are into whisky and have not been to the inn, prepare to put it on your speyside itinerary.

First let’s get some details out there:

Website: http://www.whiskyinn.com/

Address: The Highlander Inn, Craigellachie, Speyside, Banffshire, AB38 9SR, Scotland

Phone: +44(0)1340 881446

Email: info@whiskyinn.com

Ok so what’s the big deal about the Highlander Inn? It has one of the most interesting and rare collections of whisky in the world. It’s well priced. It’s managed by a whisky legend known as Tatsuya.

Tatsuya Minagawa moved to Scotland from Japan in 1998 in pursuit of whisky and started working at the Highlander Inn in 2005. In 2012 he became the European Brand Ambassador for Suntory (owners of Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita). Then in 2015 he returned to the Highlander Inn as its new owner. His story always reminds me of the father of Japanese whisky, Masataka Taketsuru. It takes a lot of gumption to move across the world to a country that speaks a different language. To do that for whisky is extraordinary. I think that pretty much proves his knowledge and passion for whisky. In case you are still in doubt here’s a video of him at the Highlander Inn:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFfSSH_WODk

If you go to the Highlander Inn you’ll find a great wee whisky bar with a fantastic selection of whiskies (including some extremely rare Japanese whiskies), delicious food, and a whisky legend. This isn’t just a touristy place either. The locals know how good of a deal it is and fill up the tables nightly. It’s in the heart of Speyside (Craigellachie) so if you are touring the whisky distilleries you’ll likely pass by the inn anyway. Drop in and see what whisky treasures are hidden there.

If you order food, I highly recommend the Haggis Fritters. They are crunchy, salty, sweet, and spicy. Even if you are not a fan of haggis, I’m pretty sure you’ll like these. Just writing about them is making my stomach growl. Here’s a picture of them for reference:

I’d say they would pair well with a Yamazaki 12 or Taketsuru 12 ;).