The Speyside Region- A Hotbed for Scotch Whisky
- Emma Gibbs
- Feb 26, 2024
- 2 min read
The Speyside region. Packed with Scotch whisky distilleries and by far the largest producer by volume and value. In fact, just THREE of the region’s distilleries produce a whopping 30% of all single malt Scotch whisky sold worldwide.
What is Speyside?
It’s one of Scotland’s 5 legally protected whisky-producing regions and interestingly the only one to be named after a river – the River Spey.
Where is Speyside?
The Speyside region sits in the northeast of Scotland. It has a reasonably mild climate and is lush and fertile with the mighty River Spey feeding it’s many glens, valleys and tributaries.
How many distilleries belong to the Speyside region?
Around 60.
Why are there so many distilleries in Speyside?
During the early 19th century, the area was inaccessible and difficult for the dreaded taxmen to reach so was the perfect place for illicit distilling. Countless distilleries sprung up during this time, especially in a remote area known as Glen Livet.
In the late 19th century, the region was one of the first to receive a network of rail lines which ran casks from the distilleries to the blenders and grocers in the central belt of Scotland. For the first time, Glasgow and Edinburgh could be reached easily, and from there, open channels and distribution to the rest of the world.
Who are the big three?
The Macallan, The Glenlivet and Glenfiddich are the best-known producers and are household names in every corner of the globe.
Who are the other Speyside producers?
There are too many to mention but some of the other best-known distilleries include: Benriach, Glenfarclas, Benromach and Tamnavulin.
Does Speyside whisky have a particular flavour profile?
Generally, Speyside whiskies tend to have a particularly elegant fruity profile which includes notes of apple, pear, honey and vanilla. Sherry butts are also commonly used for maturing or finishing whisky so often you’ll find notes of dried fruit and spice.
Should I visit?
Definitely. In fact, if you’re a Scotch whisky fan, it’s almost a must.
There are a wealth of distilleries in the area, often within a short distance of each other which make visiting two distilleries a day entirely possible.
The region is also home to the Speyside Cooperage, which is the last remaining cooperage in the UK.
Any festivals I should know about?
Yes, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is a six-day event that happens every May with distillery open days; tasting events, including the chance to sample special festival bottlings; talks and panel discussions.
However, one of the biggest draws is the chance to see inside distilleries that are usually closed to the public. Last year, Dailuaine, Mortlach and Tamdhu among others opened briefly to welcome nosey festivalgoers.
Are you a fan of Speyside whisky? Have you visited the region before? Are you planning a visit this year? Let me know in the comments.
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