No Scottish shindig is complete without a wee dram. Scots have been making single malts since the 15th century, and today, whisky – or uisge beatha in Gaelic, meaning the water of life – remains as much an integral part of Scotland’s culture and identity as it was some six hundred years ago.

But while the old ways are still going strong, many distilleries are going against the grain to produce exciting new malts using age-old skills. And it’s not just whisky that’s booming. Small batch artisanal gins are sweeping the country like a storm, with more new distilleries opening year on year, attracting not only whisky-lovers to Scotland, but gin enthusiasts too. Here are some of Scotland’s most unmissable gin and whisky-themed experiences for anyone who enjoys a good tipple – slàinte!

DK Scotland

Speyside Malt Whiskey Trail

Stunning Speyside. Home to Scotland’s largest concentration of distilleries, this charming region of rolling hills and picturesque countryside is the epicentre of Scotland’s malt whisky industry. Many of Scotland’s most famous malts are produced here, from global names to boutique brands. According to those in the know, this is due to the area’s perfect balance of temperate climate, gentle terrain and freshwater from Highland springs.