Braeval distillery

Braeval distillery stands on a mountain ridge at Chapeltown in Speyside, Scotland. Founded in 1973 as Braes of Glenlivet, it was renamed to avoid confusion with another single malt. The distillery is owned by Chivas Brothers and supplies malt for blends such as Chivas Regal. It sits at 350 metres above sea level, making it the highest distillery in Scotland. The site was chosen for its elevated position and central location in Speyside. The distillery’s history includes a closure in 2002 and a reopening in 2008 under new ownership. In 2001, Pernod Ricard acquired Chivas Brothers from Seagram. The first Braeval single malt was released in 2017, marking a new chapter for the distillery. Its original purpose was to produce malt whisky for blending, a role it continues to fulfil alongside its single malt releases. Visitors find a working distillery set against a dramatic Highland landscape. The buildings include production areas and warehouses for maturing whisky. The surrounding Speyside region offers scenic walks and nearby distilleries to explore. The high-altitude location provides sweeping views over the surrounding hills. The site retains a functional, industrial feel rather than a tourist-focused design.