As whisk(e)y lovers know, it is a drink that embodies the land it comes from. Many great holidays are made even better with a memorable drink in hand. And for whisky lovers, what could be better than sipping a fine dram while knowing it was crafted with the environment in mind? Distilleries around the world are embracing sustainability, proving that great whisky and great responsibility can go hand in hand. There is no shortage of distilleries when travelling around Scotland and Ireland.

Starting out in Scotland, Scotch whisky is Scotland’s national drink and one of the biggest exports, it also is made according to specific laws. By law, all Scotch whisky must be produced in Scotland and matured for at least three years in oak barrels immediately after distillation. However, most single malts lie in the wood for 8, 10, 12, 15 years or longer. 

So, if you're looking for a whisky-themed getaway with a green twist, here are some eco-conscious distilleries worth adding to your travel bucket list!

1. GlenWyvis Distillery (Scotland) – The Community-Powered Pioneer

Set in the Scottish Highlands, GlenWyvis is the world’s first 100% community-owned distillery. It runs entirely on renewable energy—wind, hydro, and solar power—making your dram of Scotch guilt-free! When visiting, take a tour of this scenic spot in Dingwall and enjoy the history, sustainability, and, of course, a perfect Highland single malt.

2. Ahascragh Distillery (Ireland) – Responsible Craftsmanship

Ireland’s first eco-distillery has been awarded Origin Green Membership, maintains zero energy emissions, sustainable packaging, and uses thermal energy storage to recycle energy that would normally be wasted. They have a distillery tour in the heart of County Galway, as well as a café and restaurant.

3. Nc’nean (Scotland) – Organic and Ultra-Sustainable

This small but mighty distillery on Scotland’s west coast is shaking up the whisky world. Nc’nean is certified organic, powered by 100% renewable energy, and bottles their spirits in fully recycled glass. They even turn leftover grain into animal feed. The result? A smooth, floral whisky with a carbon footprint so small it’s practically invisible.

4. Clonakilty Distillery (Ireland) – Biodiversity First

Clonakilty Distillery sources grain from its own family farm along the Wild Atlantic Way, using sustainable agricultural methods to maintain biodiversity. They also have 100% of their electricity made from renewable sources and prioritize eco-conscious packaging for their award-winning spirits.  They are also promoting biodiversity with a wildflower meadow, planting over 400 native trees, and a dedicated bee bank for native bee species to build their burrow.

5. Arbikie Highland Estate (Scotland) – Farm-to-Bottle Innovation

This family-run distillery in Scotland takes sustainability to another level. They grow their own barley, use sustainable farming techniques, and have even developed the world’s first climate-positive distillery. Their commitment to eco-friendly production and zero waste makes this a fantastic stop for whisky fans who care about the planet.

 

If you learned something from this article and/or enjoyed it, please share it.  If you have any questions or would like to learn more about sustainable travel, please contact us.  Our beautiful planet is important to Gin & Tonic Travel, and we support sustainability in our business, by working with sustainable suppliers and how we operate our business. 

 

You can read more about sustainability in travel in our weekly Sustainable Sips blog.  If there is a topic you would like for us to write about, please send us your suggestion to explore@ginandtonictravel.com.      

Article by Samantha Leeming, Travel Specialist at Gin & Tonic Travel

All rights reserved. You are welcome to share this material from this page, but it may not be copied, re-published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.