Drink
AT THE DORNOCH CASTLE
Dornoch Castle Whisky Bar
No. 1 Whisky Hotel according to whiskybase.com
Our Whisky Bar, situated in the heart of the Castle, has achieved critical international acclaim.
- Currently No1 Whisky Hotel of the Year on www.whiskybase.com
- The Scotch Malt Whisky Society SMWS Partner Bar
- Specially selected whisky-tasting flights
- Extended live interview on www.whiskycast.com
- The Whisky bar was featured in Whisky Passion magazine
- Well-stocked with indie bottlings, blends, and single malts from Thompson Bros—browse their reviews on dramface.com
Whisky Tastings
At Dornoch Castle Hotel Whsky Bar, whisky tastings are more than a drink—they’re an experience, especially when led by Jamie, the Bar & Events Manager. Known for his warm, engaging nature and deep passion for whisky, Jamie crafts each Tasting to suit guests of all levels. His expert storytelling and ability to tailor selections to your taste ensure every dram is memorable.
Held in the Castle’s historic vault, the setting adds a unique charm to these events. It’s a must for any whisky lover visiting Dornoch!
The Whisky Bar itself boasts one of the finest and rarest selections in the world, carefully curated by Simon and Phil Thompson. Jamie, alongside the knowledgeable bar team, shares this passion with each guest, offering insights into every pour.
Booking is essential.
Public tastings are also available. Check out the latest events.
Dornoch Negroni
In collaboration with Dornoch Distillery, we’re proud to present the Dornoch Negroni – a bottled version of the beloved house Negroni that rests in a demi-john atop the castle bar.
Crafted using the TB multi-award-winning Mediterranean gin and following the same signature recipe, this small-batch cocktail offers you the chance to bring a taste of Dornoch Castle into your own home.
Each bottle contains two perfectly balanced servings – simply pour over ice, add a slice of orange and enjoy!
Dornoch Negroni 20cL (22%ABV) is available on the Dornoch Distillery website or individual sales from Dornoch Castle Hotel’s Whisky Bar RRP £10.
Thompson Bros Organic Mediterranean Gin
Dornoch Distillery’s multi-award-winning gin is distilled right here on the grounds of the Dornoch Castle Hotel. This gin is built up of single infusions of fresh seasonal citrus and herbs that are slowly blended with their base blend of botanicals to create a bright, clean and citrus lead gin.
The Thompsons Brothers Organic Mediterranean Gin 70cL (45.7%) is available on the Dornoch Distillery website or individual sales from Dornoch Castle Hotel’s Whisky Bar RRP £32.50.
For more information, visit www.dornochdistillery.com
Dornoch Distillery
A homage to older style of whisky in the grounds of the Dornoch Castle Hotel
The Dornoch Distillery started production in 2017, using heritage barley, spent brewers yeast and longer fermentation times to develop a whisky style that resembles an older style of whisky and produces a spirit with a greater depth of flavour.
Dornoch Distillery produces approximately 12,000 litres of alcohol a year, making it one of the smallest whisky distilleries in Scotland. It’s located in the rear of the Castle’s garden, in the old “Fire House” which was built in 1881. Due to the size of the distillery, there are no tours available, but you can see through the iconic red doors during production, and staff are happy to answer questions when they have time.
Dornoch Distillery
Visit our website for all the latest news and information about our Gins and Whisky