Canada's First
Single Malt Distillery
Cape Breton Island · Nova Scotia · North America
Where Scotland's
Traditions Found
a New Home
Our distillery has been recognized as the first single malt whisky distillery in North America — and we've also produced the world's first single malt whisky aged in ice wine barrels. Our copper pot stills and time-tested traditions mean the whisky we produce is on par with the greatest single malts in Scotland.
Glenora is located in Nova Scotia, a province whose name literally translates to 'New Scotland.' Cape Breton Island is one of very few places on Earth where Gaelic culture and language still thrive. As Scottish descendants, we passionately keep the dearest aspects of our ancestors' colourful culture alive.
How Our Whisky Is Made
Malted barley and Cape Breton Highland water are combined in our mash tun to extract fermentable sugars.
The wort is transferred to our washbacks, where yeast converts sugars into a low-alcohol wash over 48–72 hours.
Distilled twice through our copper pot stills, separating the spirit and concentrating its unique character.
Aged in oak casks in our whisky warehouse, the spirit takes on depth, colour, and the flavour of Cape Breton.
Tour Our Distillery
Step inside North America's original single malt whisky distillery. Our knowledgeable guides will walk you through every stage of production — from mashing and fermentation to distillation in our iconic copper pot stills. The tour ends with whisky samples for guests of legal drinking age.
NO RESERVATION REQUIRED
Please check our Hours and Location page for exact dates
Last tour departs 5 pm
Children free
The Backstage
Pass Tour
A Single Malt Experience Like No Other
A private, appointment-only tour detailing our history, the reason we're located where we are, and the full production of single malt whisky. You'll receive a backstage pass to the Whisky Warehouse where you'll draw a barrel sample direct from the cask — then join your host in the pub for a private tutored tasting of various Glen Breton expressions. Don't forget to bring your camera.
Book the Backstage Pass
Complete the form below with your preferred date and party size.
Our team will confirm your reservation within 24 hours.
The Distillery Experience
Custom Group Tours & Tastings
We can tailor a tour and tasting to complement any palate or occasion — from corporate retreats and incentive travel to guided group adventures. Reservations for groups are required in advance.