Speyside

Speyside is the beating heart of Scotch: more distilleries per square mile than anywhere else, clustered along the River Spey. The climate is milder than the islands, the water is soft, and the house style leans toward fruit, honey and vanilla.

Sherry casks play a starring role. Macallan, Glenfarclas, Aberlour and GlenDronach made the region famous for dried fruit, chocolate and nuts. Bourbon casks bring apple, pear and an easy drinkability — which is why Speyside is such a welcoming place to start.

Beneath that approachable surface sits real precision. Speyside isn’t a ‘light’ region; it’s a region that turned ripe, rich whisky into a craft.