Whisky Vs. Gin: A Scotland Road Trip

Whisky may be the obvious choice, but dig a bit deeper into Scotland's booming spirits scene and you'll find artisan distillers crafting gin worthy of a luggage smuggle back to the U.S. Here are two must-visit destinations that will amp up your home bar.

The Scotch Whisky Experience
Sprits producer Diageo purchased Claive Vidiz's massive whisky collection (3,384 bottles in total) as the anchor to Edinburgh's Scotch Whisky Experience, an interactive experience that celebrates Scotland's most coveted distillation.

Enjoy a Disney-inspired barrel ride that explains whisky's history as well as the secrets behind its manufacturing, and then let the grown-up fun begin with a viewing of the world's largest collection of Scotch whisky. Various tour options offer the opportunity to taste 21-year-old Scotch whisky or participate in comparative tastings of blended, single grain and single malt whiskies. Be sure to check out the extensive collection for purchase at the shop, which features a flavor map, miniatures to create your own tasting pack and a V.I.P. sales area for premium purchases.

www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk

Eden Mill
Claiming to be the only combination brewery/distillery in all of Scotland, forgo the beer and whiskey and opt instead for craft gin that relies on botanicals sourced from nearby St. Andrews.

The factory functioned as a paper mill for more than a century until owner/director Paul Miller ventured into the spirits industry. Limited-edition production ensures that your home bar will be uniquely stocked with unusual libations such as Golf Gin, offering notes of lemongrass, lime and coriander; Oak Gin, aged in bourbon beer barrels with hints of vanilla and toffee; and Sea Buckthorn Gin, which combines local berries with typical flavor profiles such as juniper and coriander.

www.edenmill.com