Following a pandemic-induced closure, Speyside Craft Brewery has relaunched and is back with a new core range.
The Brewery was established in 2012 by chemistry student Seb Jones producing its first beer in October that year. Following the pandemic-induced mothballing, the business was purchased by Urquhart Brothers Ltd in 2022, and with fresh investment, Seb – along with support from directors Katalin Urquhart and Naidene Urquhart – re-started production this year, creating three beers for its new core range.
The new range is influenced by the rivers, hills and glens that make up the Speyside landscape, and includes the German-inspired Speyside Craft Brewery Lager, Speyside Craft Brewery IPA, a classic west coast IPA, and Speyside Craft Brewery Amber, the brewery’s take on a classic Scottish session beer.
Operating from larger premises and with a new team in Forres, MD and founder Seb Jones said the future is bright for a brewery with focus on customers and quality.
“The market might look tough on some levels, but I believe that quality will always sell,” Seb said.
“The beers we have produced for our core range are wonderful, the best we’ve made. Our new head brewer, Ritchie Duncan, brings a wealth of experience to Speyside and his attention to detail has produced great results. Speyside has an enviable reputation for producing quality food and drink – Baxters, Walkers, and more distilleries than any other region in Scotland – so we fit right in.”
“With the new directors and investment, I’m confident this is just the start of an exciting new time for Speyside Craft Brewery and its many beer-loving fans.”
Director Naidene Urquhart said, “A lot of time and effort has gone into getting our first batches of beer absolutely perfect, and I could not be more delighted with the result. Our core range tastes better than I could ever have imagined, and I can’t wait to share them with everyone. “
To mark the re-launch and its new core range, the brewery is hosting a party at the end of May at The Captain’s Table in Findhorn. Open to the public, the event will be a chance to taste the new beers, enjoy a live band and a pizza. Ticket information is on the brewery’s website speysidebrewery.com.