Description
Glen Spey 12 year old Flora & Fauna Range
Released as part of Diageo’s renowned Flora and Fauna series, this Glen Spey bottling features the Goldcrest bird on its label—a species commonly found nesting near the distillery. With the Flora and Fauna range gradually being phased out, many of its expressions are becoming increasingly sought after by collectors.
Glen Spey Distillery
Glen Spey Distillery was originally established in 1878 as the Mill of Rothes, the same year as its neighbour, Glenrothes. It was founded by local grain merchant James Stuart, who at the time also held the license for Macallan. In 1887, the distillery was renamed Glen Spey when Stuart acquired Macallan and sold the Rothes plant to the London gin company W&A Gilbey—marking the firm's first venture into Scotch whisky. Over time, Gilbey expanded its Scotch portfolio by adding Knockando and Strathmill, with Glen Spey becoming the home of its Spey Royal blend.
A later merger between Gilbey and the parent company of fellow London wine merchant Justerini & Brooks led to the formation of International Distillers & Vintners (IDV). Glen Spey, which was already supplying whisky for the J&B blend, became even more closely linked to the brand. The 1997 merger between IDV and Guinness, forming Diageo, once again changed the distillery's ownership and further integrated it into a global drinks portfolio.