by Michael Wade
(UK)
The Scottish Malt Whisky Trail
Within the highlands of Scotland you'll find Strathspey, or as it's commonly known by the English speaker as Speyside is the heart of the Scottish whisky industry. This region is home to over half of the countries distilleries, so it's no wonder that you'll find the famous malt whisky trail here. If you’re interested in sightseeing, a whisky enthusiast or it's your first visit to Scotland, then driving this trail would make the perfect day out.
The trail has 9 sites altogether, 7 working distilleries, the historic distillery of Dallas Dhu and the only operational cooperage in the UK, Speyside Cooperage. You can see how today's whiskies are produced, each following their own traditions to give individual unique tastes. A visit to Dalla Dhu will allow you to experience how 'the water of life' used to be made along with age old methods during the 19th century. Complete your whisky trail with a visit to the Speyside Cooperage, and experience the fine art of cask making with aged techniques and processes.
Each site on the trail has individual opening hours, tour times and entry prices. Prices will vary depending on the kind of tour you select, and tour times will be anywhere from half and hour to 2 hours long. A selection of sites offer a single price for all people, some have a family ticket option like the Cooperage, while Glenfiddich and the Glenlivet are free to enter. You'll also have the opportunity to try your hand at tasting some of the produce, there are also nosing sessions and personalised bottling available for a little extra. Of course you must be over 18 to take advantage of these sessions, it's not all bad for the under aged, as some sites offer them free entry.
The region of Speyside is as many would describe as delightful and picturesque. And with the trail stretching over 78 miles of this beautiful landscape, you'll be able to experience some of the best scenery that Scotland has to offer. If you're coming from overseas with intent to hire a car and wish to try some of the best single malt whiskies around, then the trail is relatively easy to plan. Speyside lies around 4 hours from the north of Edinburgh and is found along the A93. The route is well signposted and would be best taken over the course of a day; ensure you have a dedicated driver as you won't be short of opportunities to enjoy a few drabs of whisky.
The months between May and September are the best to take the great whisky trail. You'll be visiting during the time of the whisky festivals, where you can enjoy an array of different malt whisky activities and tastings. You can enjoy the sites in any order that best suits you and choosing to visit the most appealing ones, however below is our most efficient route for the trail.
The Trail:
A: Dallas Dhu (historic distillery)
Postcode: IV36 2RR
This lovely historic distillery is in the town of Forres and allowed the world to enjoy its unique taste between the years of 1899 and 1983. Adult
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