Discover Royal Lochnagar

An iconic malt with a royal heritage

Royal Lochnagar is renowned for its outstanding flavour and incredible location. The smallest distillery in the Malts collection, Royal Lochnagar sits at the foot of the Cairngorm mountains, a mile from Balmoral Castle.  

The first distillery to bear the name Lochnagar was established on the north side of the river in 1826 by a former illicit distiller, but his competitors soon burned it to the ground. From here, a second distillery was built by John Begg on the south bank in 1845, and it is this distillery that still stands today. John named the small craft distillery New Lochnagar but was granted the title Royal Lochnagar in 1848 following a visit, at the invitation of John, by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.  

Today, Royal Lochnagar retains its traditional distillery appearance with two pagoda kiln heads, as well as continuing the time-honoured process of using an open mash tun. Through this method, and the pure water of the nearby crystal clear Scarnock springs, Royal Lochnagar creates a golden and delicious Highland single malt Scotch whisky.

A bottle of Royal Lochnagar whisky lies down on its back

Visit Royal Lochnagar

Experience the history with a tour

Royal Lochnagar distillery resides in the majestic heart of Royal Deeside, just one mile from Balmoral Castle. Sitting alongside the River Dee, famous for its spring salmon, Royal Lochnagar offers a softer, more gentle side of the Highland region which whisky fans flock to every year.

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A group of friends leave Royal Lochnagar distillery, walking away from the building and carrying gift bags. They are all smiling.

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