Speyside Whisky
Technically, the Speyside whisky region lies within the Highland
whisky region and is home to approximately half of Scotland's single
malt whisky distilleries; there are currently over 30 in operation within what is a relatively small area, based around the towns of Dufftown, Elgin, Keith, Rothes and the surrounding glens. This has historically always been the case and is due to the combination of a perfect climate for whisky maturation, quality water supply and locality to the most fertile barley growing areas. This small area of land located to the north
west of Aberdeen produces single malt whiskies which are at one end of
the spectrum; light, grassy, "lunchtime whiskies" and at the other end
are rich, sweet and sherried. The huge selection of Speyside malts offer a variety of strengths. The whiskies produced include some of the most famous in the world, such as Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, but also a number of hidden gems.