There are over 100 whiskeys in Scotland and almost a half of them are located along the River Spey including the Dalwhinnie Distillery (pictured above)

The valley is rich in water, barley and yeast the essential ingredients of malt whisky.

Legal whisky was first produced in 1824 at Glen Livet.Many previous illicit producers did likewise and the whisky industry was born and now provides many jobs and income from exports throughout the world as well as home consumption.

Glen Fiddoch the world’s best selling whisky is based at Dufftown and here you can visit the distillery , have a tour, learn how whisky is made and if you would like to sample the product they are pleased to oblige.

There are several distilleries that offer tours and details atre available on the web or at Visit Scotland in Aviemore.

The Quaich Bar in the Craigellachie Hotel in Craigellachie has over 750 whiskys on offer.

Too many for one tasting but a good excuse if needed for further visits to Speyside and our cottages.