Oban Distillery Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to Tours, Tastings & Whisky Heritage

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland and love whisky, Oban Distillery should be at the top of your list. Founded in 1794, this distillery is one of the oldest in the country and still operates in its original location — right in the heart of the seaside town of Oban.

Unlike larger distilleries, Oban produces whisky on a small scale with just two copper pot stills, making it one of Scotland’s most intimate whisky experiences. Visitors rave about the balance of history, storytelling, and whisky tasting that comes with every tour.

The History of Oban Distillery

Before the town of Oban existed, there was the distillery. In fact, Oban grew up around the whisky works, making it a cornerstone of local history. For more than 225 years, Oban has been producing whisky with a unique “West Highland” style — bridging the smoky intensity of island malts with the smooth, honeyed sweetness of Highland drams.

The flagship Oban 14 Year Old has become part of Diageo’s famous “Classic Malts of Scotland” series, ensuring its place among the greats of Scotch whisky.

What to Expect on an Oban Distillery Tour

A visit to Oban Distillery is immersive, educational, and delicious. Here’s what you can look forward to:

1. The Standard Oban Distillery Tour

• A guided walk through the production process — from mashing and fermentation to distillation and maturation.

• Insight into how Oban’s whisky reflects both its Highland and coastal surroundings.

• A dram of Oban 14 Year Old to finish the tour.

2. A Taste of Oban Experience

• Four carefully selected whiskies, including exclusive editions.

• A deeper dive into the flavour profiles of Oban single malts.

• Perfect for those who want more than just the basics.

3. Bottle Your Own Whisky

For whisky collectors, nothing beats filling your own bottle directly from the cask. Available in limited numbers, this is a true souvenir of your visit.

Oban Whisky: What to Taste

Oban produces a core lineup of world-class whiskies, plus occasional limited releases:

• Oban 14 Year Old – The iconic flagship malt, known for orange peel, sea salt, honey, and a wisp of smoke.

• Oban Distiller’s Edition – Finished in Montilla Fino casks for sherry depth.

• Oban Little Bay – A smooth, approachable dram ideal for first-time Scotch drinkers.

• Special Releases – Look out for rare age statements like Oban 18 or 32 Year Old, available in limited quantities.

Why Whisky Lovers Adore Oban

• Authenticity: Every drop of whisky is produced in one of Scotland’s smallest distilleries.

• Balanced Flavor: A bridge between smoky island whiskies and sweet Highland styles.

• Engaging Storytelling: Knowledgeable guides make history come alive.

• Scenic Location: Nestled in a harbour town known as the “Gateway to the Isles.”

Join us Feb 2-8, 2026 on the Friends of Myers Tours: Scotland Edition for a chance to see what it’s all about!

Or contact us at info@myerstours.com to book your chauffeured tour (4 person minimum) of Scotland or group tour (minimum 20 passengers).