Glen Moray Speyside Whisky 

This Glen Moray comes across as gently sweet and easy-going, with soft malt on the nose and just a wee lively edge that hints at its youth, even at the low ABV. A mild tartness brightens things up, before a quick, pleasant arrival moves into a short finish of sweet vanilla, grapefruit and a touch of orange pith. It is not a whisky that tries to make a big statement, but its light citrus thread keeps things fresh and enjoyable. 

This feels like an easy dram to pour when friends are round, or when you want something simple, bright and unfussy. On a warm day, it could make a lovely citrus-led sipper and it would also sit nicely as a gentle first pour before moving on to something richer or more complex.

The distillery lies 42 miles from The Station Hotel Insch, just over an hour away. www.glenmoray.com.

Opening hours 

June, July, August: open 7 days : 9am to 5pm. September: Monday to Saturday: 9am to 5pm, Sunday: Closed. October to End of April: Monday to Friday: 10am to 4pm. Saturday and Sunday: Closed. The Visitor Centre closes for two weeks over the Christmas and New Year period.

The GlenAllachie 21-Year-Old Single Malt 

This whisky begins in bourbon barrels before spending a long secondary maturation in Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry puncheons and hogsheads from Spain. The result is described as deep and rounded, with espresso, dark chocolate, forest fruits and spiced plums all coming through. 

It is bottled at its natural cask strength of 51.9% ABV, with no added colouring and no chill filtration, which will be welcome news for anyone who prefers a more natural presentation. 

The GlenAllachie 21-Year-Old Cask Strength Batch 7 is available now from The GlenAllachie Distillery and online at www.theglenallachie.com, with a UK RRP of £297.99, making it more of a special occasion bottle. 

33 miles / 50 minutes' drive from The Station Hotel Insch. Opening times: April – October｜7 Days｜10am to 5pm. November – March｜Monday – Saturday｜10am to 5pm. Tel: +44(0)1340 872547.