Scottish Rogue, founded by local entrepreneurs Neill Murphy and John McGuire, offers an alternative way into the world of Scotch whisky, with a fresh approach. One that is relaxed, rich in culture, and proudly rooted in Glasgow.

Combining Neill’s background as a drinks writer and Islay Whisky Academy tour host with John’s experience with international audiences, the pair launched Scottish Rogue with a clear goal: to celebrate whisky without the snobbery, and to position Glasgow as a whisky destination in its own right.

“Glasgow is probably the least pretentious city in the world,” says Neill. “It makes sense to introduce people to whisky where there are fewer barriers.”

The business was built on the belief that whisky should be as approachable as it is complex. For some, that means a traditional tasting. For others, it might be sipping a whisky cocktail in a live music venue or chatting with locals in one of Glasgow’s characterful pubs.

“There are a lot of things that stop people from connecting with whisky,” John explains. “Whether that’s over-the-top tasting notes or a sense of exclusivity. We’re trying to break that down.”

Scottish Rogue offers a variety of experiences for locals and visitors alike. Their walking tours guide small groups through the city’s whisky history, stopping in historic venues and hidden gem bars to hear stories, share drams, and absorb the city’s atmosphere.

Glasgow is probably the least pretentious city in the world, so it makes sense to introduce people to our national drink where there are fewer barriers.

They also curate distillery trips to some of the region’s most exciting producers, including Glengoyne, The Clydeside Distillery, and newcomer Jackton near East Kilbride. Many of their guests are visiting Glasgow for the first time but leave feeling they’ve had a genuinely local encounter.

“You could go to a nice restaurant in Glasgow and the waiter might know the wine list inside out,” says Neill. “But ask about the whisky, and they’re often stumped. That’s a missed opportunity. We’ve got incredible local produce, amazing bars, and a welcoming scene. We should be championing that.”

Beyond tours, the team hosts tastings and themed events including Dram Jam, which blends their passion for whisky with Glasgow’s music scene. These are designed to appeal to the whisky curious, the cocktail inclined, and those who might not see themselves reflected in more traditional whisky tourism.

Their events range from informal tasting sessions to tailored corporate experiences, and the duo are keen to engage with both domestic groups and international travel trade partners looking for something fresh and flexible.

Our tours are about whisky, sure. But they’re also about music, laughter, people, and place.

Crucially, they see whisky as a gateway, not just to learning about Scotland’s national drink but to discovering Glasgow itself.

“We want people to come away feeling like they’ve learned something, but also that they’ve genuinely enjoyed themselves,” John says. “Our tours are about whisky, sure. But they’re also about music, laughter, people, and place. That’s the Glasgow we want to show.”

As the city’s reputation continues to grow in food, culture and sustainable tourism, Scottish Rogue is making a strong case for Glasgow being recognised as a whisky destination. Not just for the connoisseurs, but for everyone.