We Know Scotland

MacLean & Bruce is a distinguished luxury travel company offering exclusive access to the world of whisky.

Led by renowned author and expert Charles MacLean, we curate exceptional private whisky tours and tastings, providing our guests with unparalleled experiences within Scotland's renowned distilleries. Our dedication to excellence extends beyond whisky, as we combine luxury travel and accommodation to craft the perfect Scottish experience.

Scotland, as a destination, possesses an inherent allure. The image that captivates the minds of our visitors encompasses heather-clad mountains, enchanting castles, vibrant cities blending contemporary culture with historic architecture, pristine air, majestic waterfalls, flourishing flora and fauna. Remarkably, the reality surpasses these expectations, never failing to awe.

We understand that our guests have the highest standards, and our utmost objective is to ensure that each one receives an extraordinary experience. Whisky, a vital component of our offerings, is seamlessly woven throughout our activities, from tastings and distillery visits to rare bottle and cask investments. With Charles MacLean as a knowledgeable guide, we provide insights into the mysteries of the "Water of Life," while surrounding our guests with exceptional accommodation, luxury transportation, delectable cuisine, captivating music, and curated activities.

We believe in approaching the entire experience holistically, attending to every detail that defines luxury. At MacLean & Bruce, we take great pride in crafting extraordinary moments that leave a lasting impression. Through our meticulous attention to detail, we ensure that each aspect of your journey resonates with elegance, sophistication, and the essence of luxury.

“Details matter. They create depth, and depth creates authenticity."
- Neil Blumenthal

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MACLEAN

Charles MacLean MBE, an esteemed and widely recognized figure in Scotland, stands as a leading authority on whisky globally. With his extensive knowledge, prolific writing career, and even a serendipitous foray into film, there is no better guide for our guests seeking to explore the world of 'The Water of Life.'In his role as Director at MacLean & Bruce, Charlie is dedicated to personally assisting our guests in their journey of sensory exploration and appreciation of Scotch whisky.

With unparalleled access to Scotland's diverse range of distilleries, encompassing both renowned global giants and exciting new players in the industry, Charlie's expertise is unrivalled when it comes to assisting with the selection, nosing, tasting, note-taking, and acquisition of Scotch whisky.

Beyond his remarkable expertise, Charlie embodies the spirit of an old-school bon viveur, delighting our guests with captivating storytelling and genuine enjoyment of life's pleasures.

At MacLean & Bruce, we are privileged to have Charlie as an integral part of our team. His presence ensures that our guests receive an unforgettable experience, gaining deep insights into the world of whisky while relishing in the company of a true connoisseur as well as a lively companion.

TAKE ME TO WHISKY

BRUCE

The Bruce family name is renowned worldwide, largely due to the legacy of our ancestor, King Robert the Bruce, one of Scotland's most iconic historical figures.

Today, the Bruce family proudly resides in The Kingdom of Fife, offering our guests an opportunity to experience our extraordinary hospitality first hand. With a history spanning nearly a millennium in Scotland, the Bruce family's heritage carries immense significance.

The intertwined histories of the MacLean and Bruce families forge deep historical ties to Scotland's people and places, weaving a rich tapestry that encompasses our heritage, music, outdoor pursuits, culinary delights, and our unwavering passion for welcoming guests as cherished members of our own family and close friends.

This profound connection to Scotland's culture and traditions allows us to provide our guests with an authentic and immersive experience.

We take great pride in sharing the warmth and genuine hospitality that has been nurtured through generations, offering our guests an unparalleled glimpse into Scotland's captivating past and vibrant present.

As the descendants of Robert the Bruce, we invite you to join us and become a part of our enduring legacy, where you will be treated with the utmost care and respect, as cherished guests in our ancestral homeland.

TAKE ME TO TRAVEL

Foundation of MacLean and Bruce

M&B was created in 2013 after Charles and Vikki were asked to help organise a very high-end whisky tour for a visiting senior royal guest. This wonderful experience became the template for what subsequently became MacLean & Bruce - to offer truly luxurious whisky trips to discerning guests.

The adage ‘It’s not what you know, but who you know’ is never more true than when travelling. By keeping clear of tourist trails and using our personal connections, we create a level of authenticity which gives our guests a more meaningful and memorable experience.

“To travel is to live” – Hans Christian Andersen

OUR INTERVIEWS AND BLOGS

Midge Ure

Charles MacLean

Scotland’s Glorious Gardens

There are walled gardens, historic gardens, Victorian gardens, physic gardens and would you believe there is even a rather remarkable Garden of Cosmic Speculation.Add to the list the wonderfully idiosyncratic green spaces, which often defy labelling, and you start to understand the lure of Scotland’s horticultural works of art.With an everchanging canvas and a cracking story to tell, they are nature’s gifts, the perfect antidote to digital overload and city living.

Exploring Scotland’s Five Scotch Whisky Regions

The Scotch Whisky Regulations (SWR) 2009 set out, among other things, to regulate how Scotch Whisky should be labelled, packaged and advertised. The five Scotch Whisky Regions defined by the SWR, are: Highland, Lowland, Speyside, Islay and Campbeltown.