The Glenturret Distillery, found at the foothills of the Scottish Highlands, stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich whisky-making heritage.
Operational since 1763, it holds the prestigious title of Scotland’s oldest working distillery. In a transformative move in 2019, the Lalique Group, known for its strong culinary identity, forged a successful partnership with entrepreneur Hans Jörge Wyss, becoming the custodians of The Glenturret.
Under the visionary guidance of Scottish Chef Mark Donald, The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant emerged as the first Michelin-starred restaurant within a distillery in 2022.
With panoramic views of the River Turret and the distillery’s ancient grounds enveloping the dining room, the restaurant offers a unique culinary experience.
Dining Amidst Distillery Heritage
Chef Mark Donald’s culinary prowess draws inspiration from the bountiful Scottish larder. His team maintains close ties with local artisanal growers, producers, breeders, and fishers, often venturing into foraging themselves. The result is a menu that showcases the finest ingredients from Scotland, the wider UK, and beyond.
The 30-seated restaurant, strategically positioned in the heart of the distillery, provides enchanting views of the River Turret, surrounding forests, and hills.
Adorned in the rich green and blue palette of Glenturret and Murray tartans, the ambience is further accentuated by Lalique Champs-Elysées chandeliers, casting a golden glow on centuries-old stone walls.
Chef Mark Donald’s unconventional journey to culinary excellence started with ambitions in the arts. However, a serendipitous encounter with the kitchen redirected his path.
From local restaurants in Glasgow to Michelin-starred establishments, including Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Mark honed his skills, embracing the Scottish larder.
Mark’s culinary voyage took him to Australia, London, and Sydney, but his heart was always in Scotland. In 2018, he and his wife made Scotland their permanent home, with Mark assuming the role of chef at Number One in the landmark Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh.
The Glenturret: A Culinary Haven
In 2021, Mark Donald took over the kitchens of The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant, finding creative freedom in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. Within seven months, the restaurant earned its well-deserved Michelin star in March 2022, a historic achievement for a Scottish distillery.
Born in Alsace, Julien Beltzung, the Executive Sommelier, embarked on a culinary journey inspired by his family’s love for gastronomy. His return to the Glenturret Distillery in Scotland marked a full circle, aligning seamlessly with Chef Mark Donald’s culinary vision.
A Cellar of Opulence
Julien’s cellar boasts an extensive selection of fine wines, boutique vintages, and rare finds from Silvio Denz’s private collection. The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant offers an exclusive selection of wines from renowned regions in France and Italy.
Julien Beltzung’s expertise extends to the bar, where he curated a diverse list of over 400 Scottish whiskies. A connoisseur’s delight, the bar also features bespoke cocktails crafted with award-winning Glenturret whiskies.
The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant has garnered numerous accolades, including a Michelin star in 2022 and recently was awarded a second Michelin star during the 2024 ceremony, 4 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence, and being named ‘Best Restaurant in Scotland’ at The National Restaurant Awards in 2023.
This achievement marks only the second Scottish restaurant to attain such a prestigious accolade.
Conclusion: A Culinary Masterpiece Unveiled
The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant stands as a testament to the harmonious marriage of culinary artistry and whisky craftsmanship.
Chef Mark Donald and Sommelier Julien Beltzung have curated an unparalleled dining experience, earning accolades that underscore the restaurant’s position as a culinary gem in the heart of Scotland.
