The Whisky Enthusiast’s Guide to Speyside: Must-Try Single Malts and Distilleries
Speyside is a region in Scotland known for its abundance of whisky distilleries and its unique style of single malts. As a whisky enthusiast, there are few places in the world that offer as much to explore and enjoy as Speyside. With over 50 distilleries in the region, each with its own distinct character and flavor profiles, there is no shortage of exceptional whiskies to sample and savor.
For those looking to embark on an unforgettable whisky pilgrimage, here is a guide to some of the must-try single malts and distilleries in Speyside.
Glenfiddich Distillery
Glenfiddich is one of the most famous and well-respected distilleries in Speyside, if not the world. Their flagship 12-year-old expression is a great introduction to the Speyside style, with its notes of pear, apple, and a touch of oak. For those looking for something a bit more special, the Glenfiddich 18-year-old offers a more complex and mature flavor profile.
The Macallan Distillery
The Macallan is another iconic distillery in Speyside, known for its rich and full-bodied single malts. Their Sherry Oak range, in particular, is a must-try, with the classic 12-year-old offering a perfect balance of dried fruits, spice, and chocolate.
Balvenie Distillery
Balvenie is a traditional distillery that still employs onsite floor maltings and copper pot stills, giving their whiskies a rich and nuanced character. Their DoubleWood 12-year-old, aged in both ex-bourbon and sherry casks, is a great starting point for those new to Balvenie, while the 21-year-old PortWood offers a more luxurious and decadent experience.
Aberlour Distillery
Aberlour is known for its rich and sherried whiskies, with the 12-year-old and A’Bunadh being standout expressions. The A’Bunadh, in particular, is a cask strength whisky that packs a punch with its intense flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruits, and Christmas spices.
Glenlivet Distillery
As one of the oldest legal distilleries in Scotland, Glenlivet has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality single malts. Their 12-year-old expression is a good starting point, offering a light and floral profile with a touch of sweetness, while the Nadurra range provides a more intense and unadulterated whisky experience.
When visiting Speyside, it’s not just about the whiskies, but also the experience of visiting the distilleries themselves. Many of the distilleries offer tours and tastings, providing the opportunity to learn about the whisky-making process and gain a deeper appreciation for the craft.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of single malts, Speyside offers an unparalleled array of whiskies to explore and enjoy. From the classic and well-known distilleries to the smaller, boutique producers, there is something for everyone in this special region of Scotland. So, pack your bags, set out on a whisky adventure, and discover the magic of Speyside for yourself. Cheers!
