Spirit of Speyside 2025 Events

After many years, the picturesque Dallas Dhu Distillery reopens its doors to celebrate a new era.

In 1898, the Dallas Dhu Distillery was designed and constructed by legendary icons of Scotch whisky, Charles Doig and Alexander Edward. After nearly a century of producing classic Speyside single malt, the distillery fired up its stills for the final time in 1983. Today, guests are welcomed back for a rare opportunity to step back in time, taking an up-close look at the distillery’s Victorian architecture and its wonderfully preserved whisky-making equipment.

Join Edward Odim, the Dallas Dhu Distillery Project Director (and Murray McDavid Chairman) for an unmissable opportunity to learn and discover fascinating insights behind the revival of one of the jewels in the crown of Scotland’s distilleries. Closed in 1983, this historic site is a fabulously preserved example of a bygone era of whisky production.

During this intimate tour, along with a range of special drams, Edward will share his passion for the Dallas Dhu Distillery Project and the local area of Forres. He’ll also share the story of how he and his team aquired the remarkable distillery. In this in-depth, access-all-areas tour, you’ll be guided through the rich heritage of the Victorian buildings, as you go behind the scenes at this special distillery.

Step into Dallas Dhu House, the brand home of Murray McDavid, for an evening of traditional Scottish hospitality. Enjoy a crafted 3-course dinner, each course paired with a fine whisky. The grand setting captures the charm of a classic Scottish gathering, making it the perfect backdrop for sharing great food, drink, and conversation.

You’ll be joined at your table by a member of the Murray McDavid Team for a good ‘blether’ about good whisky. There will also be a fully stocked bar for you to enjoy a range of other drinks – and more whisky! Sláinte!

Roll up your sleeves and have a go at building your own whisky cask at the iconic Dallas Dhu Distillery.

Casks are at the heart of good whisky making and our very own Cooper, Jason Taylor, will guide you on how to build a cask. After your gallant efforts at constructing your cask, enjoy a few artfully matured drams and a good chat with Jason about the craft of cask making.

Join Murray McDavid’s Chairman, Edward Odim, for a Wildlife Whisky Walk that combines the beauty of nature with the magic of fine whisky. Starting at the stunning Victorian property, Dallas Dhu House the brand home of Murray McDavid, you’ll set out on a gentle ramble through the enchanting Sanquhar Forest and local wetlands.

Edward, a former BBC Natural History Producer and a passionate wildlife and bird enthusiast will lead the walk as you explore Speyside’s flora and fauna, pointing out everything from songbirds, lichen, spring blossoms and any other interesting natural history along the way.

And what’s a walk without a dram? You’ll enjoy stops to savour some of Edward’s favourite old and rare Murray McDavid whiskies which he has specially selected for the walk.

After your woodland wander, return to Dallas Dhu House for a relaxing farewell dram. With Spring in the air, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Speyside’s nature.

Delve into whisky history with Murray McDavid and filmmakers Greg Swartz and Guy Satchwell for an exclusive screening of ‘Independent Spirits’, an exciting new docuseries brought to you by the creative mind behind the film, The Water of Life . Sit back with a dram in hand at the iconic Dallas Dhu Distillery as the story unfolds, celebrating the artistry and passion that goes into independent whisky bottling.

After the screening, the afternoon gets even better with a guided tasting of another three of Murray McDavid’s exceptional whiskies. Plus, you’ll receive a special link to watch the remaining three episodes of the docu-series at your leisure, perfect for continuing the whisky journey from the comfort of your home.

Join Murray McDavid at their charming beach huts in Findhorn, where local artist Jan Grigg (accompanied by a Murray McDavid Brand Ambassador) will guide you in creating your very own ‘Whisky & Waves’ seascape masterpiece. While you paint, you’ll sip on some wonderfully inspiring drams, soaking in the views and vibes. At the end of the session, take home your artwork to proudly display and show your friends.

Join Dean Jode, Head of Whisky Creations at Murray McDavid, for a whisky blending workshop. You’ll have fun trying to create a blend that’s reminiscent of the vintage flavours of the long-lost Dallas Dhu Distillery spirit.

Guests will start this hands-on experience with a special dram produced at Dallas Dhu in the 1980s. After exploring the aromas and flavours of the traditional single malt that was once produced at Dallas Dhu, Master Blender, Dean, will share some tips and tricks as, together, you strive to rediscover the flavours that shine through this classic Dallas Dhu malt.

Crafting your unique blend will involve sampling and selecting spirit from a range of Speyside distilleries to create your own one-off 20cl bottle of Scotch whisky to take away, cherish and enjoy.

As the Spirit of Speyside Festival draws to a close, and you’re feeling the effects of the week, join Edward and colleagues at Murray McDavid for a ‘Hair of the Dog Walk’ ; a laid-back, recuperative stroll on the beach at Findhorn, a charming old fishing village on Moray’s beautiful coast. Starting at the Murray McDavid beach huts with a dram, you’ll set off for a walk then return to the beach huts for a picnic and more drams – a perfect cure for a hangover!