A historic Moray estate is marking its links to the birth of the whisky industry by taking part in a festival celebrating the region’s malt output.
Gordon Castle, by Fochabers, is eager to shed light on the role its 19th century occupants played in allowing Speyside to blossom as a distillery heartland.
The Fifth Duke of Gordon was a key figure in legalising Scotland’s whisky trade, ensuring that the Excise Act, which permitted the production of the drink in return for a licence fee, was passed in 1823.
Gordon Castle is encouraging visitors to learn more about that milestone moment when it participates in the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival for the first time next month.
Thousands of malt enthusiasts are expected to descend on Moray for the five-day event, and will be able to gain unprecedented access to Gordon Castle during that time.
On Saturday, April 30, the iconic locale will host a whisky breakfast in its walled garden, before opening its doors to the public for an exclusive dinner event at night.
On Sunday, May 1, there will be afternoon tea and, the following day, staff will serve a whisky and game lunch.
Rooms at the castle, which are normally available only for private hire, can be booked during the festival.
Owner, Angus Gordon-Lennox, said: “It’s no coincidence the castle is right in the heart of Scotland’s whisky country – my family and the castle’s history is intertwined with that of the whisky industry.
“It seems only fitting that we take part in this celebration of our national dram.”
Full details on the estate’s activities during the festival can be found at www.spiritofspeyside.com