Highland

The regions of Scotch whisky production are a blend of historical circumstance, corporate construction and brand identity. It’s commonly agreed that there are six such regions, these being the Highlands, Speyside, Lowlands, Islay, Islands and Campbelltown. Contradiction is rife – Islay is an Island, Speyside is the Highlands, and there are only three distilleries currently operating in Campbelltown. Many Highland distilleries are not even in the highlands, some Islay distilleries make Speyside style whiskies and there are peated Lowland whiskies. Yet despite wide debate, regionality is here to stay and offers convenient classifications to an ever-expanding array of distilleries and bottlings.

The Highlands are by far the largest region, comprising most of the mainland of Scotland north of the central belt. The distilleries are scattered far and wide and produce a variety of styles, from the rich oiliness of Ben Nevis to the delicate delights of Glenmorangie. Other highland distilleries include Clynelish, Pulteney and Dalwhinnie. Each of the highland distilleries have their own distinct character and are less associated with a particular geographical style than the other regions.