Whisky distilleries were founded in an environment rich in the highest quality ingredients: pure, clear spring water and abundant supplies of fragrant golden barley. On the whisky trail of Speyside, you’ll find more than half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries, each with its own warm welcome and an invitation to see, smell, taste and absorb the magic of whisky.
Each whisky distillery on the distillery tour follows its own traditions, lore and recipes for everything from malting the barley to the height and size of its stills. The unique characteristics of each Speyside whisky distillery result in delightful, hand-crafted whisky from each one. All offer visitors a sample of the finished product and some include an informative nosing and tasting while others give an insight into the complex art of blending whisky and malt.
Follow the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail through Speyside to seven working distilleries, including a fascinating cooperage and a historic distillery. From Benromach to Dallas Dhu, a perfect time capsule of whisky-making; from Glen Moray to Strathisla, home and heart of Chivas Regal; from the Glen Grant distillery to the Speyside Cooperage where real coopers work with incredible speed and skill; from Glenfiddich to The Glenlivet and the Cardhu distillery, Scotland’s whisky trail signposts lead you through the picturesque lush countryside of Speyside, the world’s favourite malt whisky region.
Come for a weekend in May, or in September for the whisky festivals, when distilleries, whisky shops, bars, pubs and whole villages welcome visitors with drams, special nosings, ceilidhs and other parties. Come at any time to enjoy famous names and share well-kept secrets with knowledgeable locals in well-stocked bars and friendly pubs.
The largest warehouse for Malt Whiskey in Europe is operated by The Macallan Distillery. Up to 60,000 barrels can be stored in the warehouse, exceeding the value of the gold reserves of the Bank of England.
