More than 50 Speyside malts were taste-tested as the first stage of a prestigious whisky awards scheme began yesterday.
A panel of expert judges, including Moray MSP Richard Lochhead, selected six finalists for the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Awards at the event at the Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh.
The event was a preview to the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, which will include 200 events over six days, starting on Thursday, April 29.
The blindfolded judges tasted single malts under three categories – 12 years old and under, 13-20 years old and 21 years and above.
After announcing the finalists, Mr Lochhead hosted a reception for MSPs and representatives from the whisky and tourism industry.
He said: “The reception is always well-attended, providing a great opportunity to promote Speyside whisky as well as the festival itself.
“The Spirit of Speyside festival is a firm favourite for literally thousands of people and I look forward to it every year.”
Jim Royan, chairman of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Board, added: “These whiskies are the expressions of the highest quality of Speyside’s wonderful spirit.
“I’m sure that their success will confirm their international recognition.”
The winner from the final six - Balvenie Doublewood, Aberlour, Mannochmore, Benromach Vintage and Glenlivet – will be selected by members of the public on the opening night of the festival, which runs from April 29 to May 3.
For more information visit www.spiritofspeyside.com