Getting to know Speyburn
Launched offically in Malaysia last April, Speyburn Single Malt Scotch Whisky held its first exclusive masterclass under the new distributorship of Fortier Wines & Spirits Sdn Bhd.
The masterclass was led by Paul Warathep Chandeeraj, International Brand Ambassador for International Beverage. Paul captivated guests with his engaging, approachable presentation style, taking attendees through a guided tasting of three Speyburn expressions: the 10 Years Old, 15 Years Old, and 18 Years Old.

Born in Thailand and raised in the UK, Paul joined International Beverage in 2012 where he managed trade relations in London. His deepening passion for whisky eventually led him back to Asia in 2015, where he now champions the brand across the region. With over a decade of experience and a gift for storytelling, Paul has played a key role in educating both trade professionals and consumers about the art of premium spirits.

A quintessential Speyside single malt, Speyburn is crafted in Speyside, Scotland, using traditional methods, natural resources, and an intuitive touch that delivers distinctive character in every drop. The distillery, nestled in a lush valley just outside Rothes, has been producing whisky since November 1, 1897, originally founded to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Locally known as “The Gibbet”, the distillery lies beneath the hill of Cnoc na Croiche, or “Hillock of the Gibbet”, a nod to its storied past.
We tried:
SPEYBURN 10 YEARS OLD, abv 40%
Aged in a combination of American oak, ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, the pale gold with amber highlights offers a fresh and clean first whiff with citrusy hints of lemon. Medium-bodied with notes of toffee and butterscotch surfaces later, and the finish is long and sweet. This is a crowd-pleaser that goes down easy as dinner drinks or just catching up with friends for a night cap.

SPEYBURN 15 YEARS OLD abv 46%
A richer tone, amber hued whisky that’s released annually in just 3,500 limited cases. Matured in American and Spanish oak casks, it gives a rich aroma of dark chocolate, raisins, citrus, and vanilla with layers of orange, toffee, vanilla, and leather with a warming, spiced finish. This was a lovely rendition with just the right mouth-feel, and probably my favourite. Can see myself getting familiar and being firm friends with this Speyside offering.

SPEYBURN 18 YEARS OLD, abv 46%
Aged in both American and Spanish oak for 18 years, it has a deep golden hue that gives off notes of sweet toffee, sugared almonds, tropical fruit, with a hint of smoke and candied apples. It carries a palate of creamy dark chocolate, gentle oak spice, and citrus, leading to a long, smoky finish. Love the hint of smokiness and classy full-bodied whisky.

Held at Curious Kitchen, Petaling Jaya, curated dishes such as cured meats and olives enhanced the masterclass experience. A strong start indeed for Speyburn’s presence in Malaysia.
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