Speyside is a vitally important Scotch whisky region, with the highest concentration of distilleries in the world. Often considered the heart of Scotland’s whisky production, it is home to over 50 makers.
The region touches the Cairngorms in the south stretching up to the North Sea coast, and the towns of Huntly in the east and Nairn to the west. Elgin is a significant town in the region, as is Dufftown, which is considered its unofficial capital. Central is the River Spey itself, wide and fast-flowing, which snakes through the heart of Speyside.
Speyside is a ‘protected locality’ for Scotch whisky. However, it sits fully within the legally defined Highland region. Distilleries can choose to use either designation on their labels.
The Speyside region
The Speyside region accounts for around one third of all the distilleries in Scotland. It has a long, rich history of whisky-making. Before the 1800s, there would have been hundreds of so-called illicit distilleries in operation. They were forced to close as excise laws were introduced, most notably in 1823. Since then, as whisky’s fortunes ebbed and flowed, distilleries have been opened and shuttered. Today, the industry is thriving, not just in terms of whisky production, but visitor numbers, too.
Examples of single malt distilleries in Speyside include Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, The Macallan, Glenfarclas, Glen Moray, Glen Grant, GlenAllachie, Aberlour, Craigellachie, Cardhu, and many more. Stathisla is the oldest recorded distillery in Speyside, founded in 1786.
Unique Features of Speyside Whiskies
Before the advent of clean fuel, all of Speyside’s whiskies would have been lightly peated – which seems odd to contemplate today. Over time, Speyside whiskies developed a hallmark fruity profile, with apple, pear, honey and vanilla notes all common. Speyside distilleries often made use of sherry-seasoned casks which added to the traditional sweeter signature.
Today, Speyside whiskies offer a remarkable array of flavours. Light, floral, bourbon cask-matured whiskies are made alongside denser, richer, sherry cask-aged spirits. Distillers in the region have become known for their experimental nature too, with some innovating with the likes of Agricole Rhum, Tequila and even ex-Awamori casks. Some even use peated malt, bringing earthy smoke back to the region.
Speyside shows that the traditional bonds between region and flavour profile have been broken as whisky makers embrace creativity and inventiveness.
Visiting Speyside
Speyside is a fantastic destination for whisky lovers – and tourists in general. It is within easy reach of both Aberdeen and Inverness airports, and is a three-hour drive north of Edinburgh. There are many accommodation options, with hotels, B&Bs and guest houses throughout the region. Elgin, Dufftown, Craigellachie and Aberlour are great places to start with.
Most distilleries are in easy reach of the main towns and villages. With a well-planned itinerary (and a designated driver!) it is easy to visit three or four distilleries in a day. Get to know the distilleries with a guided tour from an experienced ambassador, or explore the range of whiskies on offer via a tasting. In between, take in the region’s natural beauty from the forests to the rivers.
The famous Malt Whisky Trail takes in a curated selection of the region’s distilleries and offers a great place to start when planning a visit.
Every May, whisky lovers flock to the region for the Spirit of Speyside event. In addition to tastings and tours, the distilleries host special events, usually including live music, and bottle limited-run editions to mark the occasion. Plan well ahead if you will be in the region for Spirit of Speyside.
FAQs
What makes Speyside whisky different from other Scotch regions?
Speyside is the most densely populated whisky region in the world. It is home to over 50 distilleries including many of Scotland’s most notable names: Glenfiddich, The Macallan and Glenlivet. Plus, the region is stunningly beautiful! It is a must-visit whisky region for any spirits lover.
Which are the most famous distilleries in Speyside?
Speyside is home to many of Scotland’s most well-known whisky-makers, many of which are open for visitors. Speyside distilleries include The Macallan, Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, Aberlour, The Balvenie. Craigellachie, Mortlach, Glen Moray, Glen Grant, Benriach, and many more.
How does the use of sherry casks influence Speyside whiskies?
Speyside has historical links with the use of sherry-seasoned casks. These impart rich, fruity notes to the spirit. Other characteristics associated with sherry cask-matured whiskies include nuttiness, baking spices, and an earthiness.
What are the best distilleries to visit in Speyside?
According to the Milroy’s Whisky Travel Index the best whisky distilleries to visit in Speyside are Glen Moray, GlenAllachie, Glenfarclas, Glenlivet and Aberlour. These all ranked highly across 50 metrics, including visitor centre facilities, quality of tour, and value for money.
