SPIRIT OF Speyside Whisky Festival, the international-renowned event, is back for 2023.

This annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink has become one of the largest events of its kind anywhere in the world, bringing thousands of visitors to Speyside each year since its creation in 1999.

Aficionados can look forward to bumper programme of whisky-inspired events designed to entice and inform the most experienced of connoisseurs and the whisky novice.

From distilleries to village halls, to local whisky bars, historic castles and the great outdoors, a range of events will take place throughout scenic Speyside – the biggest whisky-producing region in Scotland.

Supported by Speyside businesses, communities, members and locals, it is this master blend of talent from the iconic whisky-making region that makes the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival so special.

Platinum partners include Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Festival Ambassadors of the Year 2022, Steph & Lauren Murray at the Dowans Hotel, as well as some of whisky's most distinguished brands like The Glenlivet, Diageo, Craigellachie, Benromach, and newcomer to the festival, Speyburn.

To mark the distillery’s 125th Anniversary, Speyburn is joining the Spirit of Speyside Festival and opening its doors to the public for the first time. It will be running two tours three times a day.

George McNeil, chairman of Festival, said: “Whether you’re a dram expert or just entering the world of whisky for the first time, we will be delighted to welcome you to Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

“Taking place across Elgin, to Kingussie, to Forres, our comprehensive programme of events brings the journey of Scottish whisky to life for visitors, creating truly world-class and unforgettable experiences set among spectacular scenery. “Our visitors travel from as many as 35 different countries, bringing everyone together over a shared passion and interest for whisky. I can think of no better antidote to the various challenges of the past few years.”

For a full list of events and ticket information, go to www.spiritofspeyside.com