Locally sourced Speyside whiskies have a home in The Kegs' manager, Moira's heart. Having being brought up in a small village called Rothes. Moira has a wealthy knowledge of all Speyside whiskies and gives us an insight into her top three favourite whiskies.  

1. Speyburn Bradan Orach

Bradan Orach – Gaelic for Golden Salmon is distilled in a small distillery on the outskirts of Rothes – my home village. If you find yourself driving through Speyside, take a wee detour and discover these small lesser-known distilleries. Speyburn Distillery lies in a valley and can be seen from the A941 Elgin to Rothes road.  The distillery dates back to 1897 and uses clear clean water from the Granty Burn – a tributary of the River Spey.  I have picked this particular distillery as it’s from my home village and I have so many happy childhood memories growing up there.

2. Glen Grant 12 year old 

Another Rothes distillery – one which hides a Victorian garden in the grounds. Glen Grant Distillery, now restored to how Major Grant set it out, has a really good visitor centre and you can wander the gardens to see stunning shrubs, trees and flowers which Major Grant brought back from his travels around Africa.  The distillery was founded in 1840 by 2 brothers - James and John Grant.  The “Major” inherited the distillery and set to building the Victorian Gardens around the still.  

3. Cragganmore

Situated on the A95 beside Ballindalloch (just past Aberlour) – one of Speyside’s smallest distilleries.  The Cragganmore distillery has a visitor centre and takes its water from the Craggan Burn.  Cragganmore is unique in that it uses flat topped spirit stills.  

The 3 whiskies I have chosen to showcase at The Keg are ones I recommend to friends and visitors to seek out as they define what is best in Speyside Malts. 

Visit Moira at The Keg and let her guide you on which Speyside malt suits your taste and enjoy some craic along the way with the locals. Walk-ins are always welcome. 

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