Glen Spey Distillery

Founded in 1878 by James Stuart, Glen Spey Distillery is located in Rothes, Speyside. Originally named Mill of Rothes, the distillery started as an oatmeal mill before being converted into a whisky distillery. In 1887, it was sold to W&A Gilbey, a London-based gin producer, and renamed Glen Spey. This acquisition marked Gilbey’s first venture into Scotch whisky production.

Glen Spey is known for its light, nutty, and slightly grassy single malt. The distillery uses a unique purifier pipe in its stills, which enhances the light oiliness of its spirit. This technique distinguishes Glen Spey from neighboring distilleries such as Knockando and Strathmill. The distillery’s production capacity is 1.4 million liters per year, with most of its output used in blends like J&B Rare.

The distillery underwent significant expansions in 1970, increasing its stills from two to four. It draws water from the Doonie Burn, and its whisky is matured mainly in ex-bourbon barrels. Glen Spey is part of Diageo’s portfolio and is rarely seen as a single malt, except for releases in the Flora & Fauna series.