Speyside’s year-round food festival

As well as an unrivalled selection of Scotland’s finest single malt whiskies, Speyside offers visitors a lavish banquet of superb locally produced food.

Marrying the rich, complex flavours of Speyside whiskies with the splendid variety and quality of fine local food ihas been the focus of an annual competition run by The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

Both professional and apprentice chefs have competed to create outstanding menus exploring the flavoursome relationships between local produce and whisky. Visitors to the Festival have been able to enjoy the winning dishes at a number of whisky and food outlets.

Speyside’s magnificent larder offers plenty of scope for culinary experiment. There is fish and shellfish from the pristine coastal waters of the Moray Firth, and wild salmon and brown trout from the Rivers Spey and Findhorn. Venison and game come from the hills and mountains of the Cairngorm National Park, while succulent lamb and Aberdeen Angus beef cattle are reared in the fertile glens. Local cheeses, smoked salmon, traditional delights such as shortbread and oatcakes are all made by internationally renowned producers. Local growers complete the feast with salad leaves, fresh herbs and vegetables and superb soft fruits.

Wherever you go in the area, you’ll find restaurants, hotels and pubs offering menus that celebrate our high quality food and whisky. During the Festival, look out for special cookery demonstrations, whisky lunches and dinners.