Speyside is Scotland’s most famous whisky region – and for good reason. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit, you’ll be familiar with the breathtaking, winding drives you can take around the area, where you will see dozens of iconic distilleries situated just a stones-throw away from one another framed by some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. One of the most picturesque distilleries in the region is Speyside Distillery.
Nestled in the Cairngorm Mountains, the site which became Speyside Distillery began life as a barley mill and croft in the 18th century. When the mill closed in 1965, it was slowly transformed into a single malt whisky distillery. The first spirit from Speyside Distillery was produced on Christmas Day 1990.
Key to the whisky’s character is its water source, the River Tromie, which is drawn using the mill lade which had originally run the waterwheel that powered the old barley mill. This ultra-soft water plays a key role in creating the sensationally smooth nature of SPEY whisky.
Today, the distillery is run by a small, experienced team of craftspeople of the highest calibre who are deeply passionate about the work that they do and the whisky they produce. Their attention to detail, dedication, and love for what they do allows them to create some truly exceptional spirit.
SPEY whisky is often regarded as one of the most approachable and easy-drinking whiskies that Scotland has to offer due to the soft, bright nature of the spirit. The distillery produces whisky with a large range of age statements and cask finishes, ensuring that there is a bottle in the collection for every type of whisky fan.
This month, we’re fortunate enough to try a dram from the Chairman’s Choice Series. This series carries the legacy of every Chairman of Speyside Distillery. Originally selected by the distillery’s founding Chairman, the responsibility of selecting the liquid for each release has been passed down from successive Chairman to successive Chairman.
The Chairman’s Choice series is inspired by the spirit of Christmas (we know, we’re a few months late – or early!). While each release is pretty different and boasts its own unique character, they are united by their embodiment of warmth, tradition, and celebration.
March’s Traditional whisky is SPEY Chairman’s Choice Pedro Ximenez. Matured in a combination of Pedro Ximenez and bourbon casks for an undisclosed period of time, this sweet expression is ripe with notes of pear, marmalade, and dark chocolate. Simply delicious!
Having tried it ourselves, we would recommend trying this whisky with soda water and ice (if you’re into mixing your whisky up!) – it works beautifully in a highball. Alternatively, if you like pairing your drams with food, try this with a warm apple pie or cobbler – you won’t be disappointed! While this series has a very Christmas-centric focus, we actually think this is a brilliant dram for the transitional period between Winter and Spring. In our opinion, it is best enjoyed on a chilly (not freezing!) evening.
If you’re looking for an introduction to Speyside whiskies, this expression is a really spectacular place to start. It is elegant, approachable and appealing to both whisky connoisseurs and novices alike. We hope that you love it as much as we do!
