Aberlour is a classic Speyside single malt made in the pretty village of the same name on the banks of the River Spey. Renowned for its sherry-influenced, double-cask style — and above all for the cult cask-strength A’bunadh — Aberlour is one of Speyside’s best-loved distilleries and hugely popular around the world, particularly in France.
History of Aberlour
The Aberlour Distillery was founded in 1879 by James Fleming, a local businessman and benefactor, on a site by the Lour burn where it meets the Spey — a spot long associated with pure water and, according to legend, the blessing of St Drostan. Rebuilt after a fire in the 1890s, it has grown into one of Speyside’s most respected distilleries and is today owned by Chivas Brothers, part of Pernod Ricard.
The whisky
Aberlour is defined by double cask maturation — marrying spirit matured in traditional oak (ex-bourbon) with whisky from Spanish sherry casks to create its signature balance of orchard fruit, spice and rich sherried sweetness. The core range typically includes:
- Aberlour 12 Year Old Double Cask — the approachable flagship.
- Aberlour 14, 16 and 18 Year Old — increasingly rich and sherry-driven with age.
- Aberlour A’bunadh — the star: a cask-strength, non-chill-filtered single malt matured entirely in Oloroso sherry casks and released in small batches, each slightly different. “A’bunadh” is Gaelic for “the origin”, a nod to old-style whisky making.
The overall character is warming, fruity and generous — a benchmark of the sherried Speyside style. For more, see our guide to the best whisky distilleries to visit and our overview of Scotch whisky regions.
Visiting Aberlour
Aberlour runs a well-regarded visitor experience with in-depth tours and tastings, including the chance to sample straight from the cask and, on certain experiences, to bottle your own. The distillery’s riverside setting in the village makes it a lovely stop. Tours should be booked in advance, especially in summer and during the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.
Where is Aberlour and how to get there
Aberlour lies in the heart of Speyside in Moray, on the A95 between Grantown-on-Spey and Elgin, at the centre of the famous Speyside whisky trail. It is within easy reach of Inverness and the northern Cairngorms, and pairs perfectly with a wider tour of the Highlands and its neighbouring distilleries.
Tips for visiting
- Book ahead for tours, particularly in peak season.
- Use a designated driver — the Scottish drink-drive limit is low.
- Seek out A’bunadh in the shop; batches vary and are prized by collectors.
- Walk the village — Aberlour is charming and sits on the Speyside Way.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Aberlour Distillery?
In the village of Aberlour on the River Spey, in the heart of the Speyside whisky region in Moray, north-east Scotland.
What is Aberlour known for?
Its double-cask, sherry-influenced Speyside style — and especially A’bunadh, a small-batch, cask-strength single malt matured in Oloroso sherry casks.
Who owns Aberlour?
Aberlour is owned by Chivas Brothers, part of Pernod Ricard.
Can you visit Aberlour Distillery?
Yes — it offers guided tours and tastings, including cask samples; booking ahead is recommended.
