Cardhu Distillery

Cardhu holds a special place in Scotch whisky as the single malt at the heart of Johnnie Walker, the world's best-selling blended Scotch. The distillery is also notable for being pioneered by Helen Cumming, one of the most important women in whisky history. Set on a hillside above the River Spey with views across Speyside, Cardhu offers a modern visitor experience.

History

John Cumming took out a licence in 1824, but it was his wife Helen who ran the operation and later their daughter-in-law Elizabeth who expanded and rebuilt the distillery in 1884. Elizabeth sold Cardhu to John Walker & Sons in 1893, securing a legacy that continues today. It is now owned by Diageo.

The whisky

Sweet and smooth with honeyed malt, pear drops and a gentle warmth.

Signature expressions

• 12 Year Old
• 15 Year Old
• Gold Reserve
• Special Cask Reserve

Visiting Cardhu

Open year-round. The visitor centre is modern and well-presented. Tours cover the production process and the story of the Cumming women. A Flavour Map tasting helps visitors find their preferred whisky style.

Highlights

• The single malt at the heart of Johnnie Walker
• Pioneered by Helen Cumming – a key figure in whisky history
• Modern visitor centre with Flavour Map tasting
• Hillside setting with views over Speyside

Private whisky tours including Cardhu

We can include Cardhu in a private whisky tour with a dedicated driver-guide and luxury Mercedes vehicle. Pick-up from your hotel, airport or cruise port.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Cardhu Distillery?

Open year-round. The visitor centre is modern and well-presented. Tours cover the production process and the story of the Cumming women. A Flavour Map tasting helps visitors find their preferred whisky style.

What whisky does Cardhu make?

Cardhu is a Speyside single malt known for: 12 Year Old, 15 Year Old, Gold Reserve, Special Cask Reserve. Sweet and smooth with honeyed malt, pear drops and a gentle warmth.

How do I get to Cardhu Distillery?

Cardhu Distillery is in Knockando, Speyside. We offer private whisky tours that include Cardhu with door-to-door transport from Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow or Aberdeen in a luxury Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide.