About Braeval
(bray-val) Braeval was built by Chivas Brothers in 1973 near Chapeltown in Speyside, originally opening as Braes of Glenlivet. The name was later changed to Braeval to avoid confusion with The Glenlivet, while its purpose remained largely the same: producing malt whisky for Chivas Brothers blends, including Chivas Regal. It is one of Scotland’s highest distilleries, sitting around 350 metres above sea level.
The distillery became part of Pernod Ricard when the group acquired Chivas Brothers in 2001, then was mothballed in 2002 before returning to production in 2008. Braeval remains a relatively low-profile single malt, with most spirit used for blending and independent bottlings providing much of its presence as a standalone whisky. Its style is typically light, clean and Speyside-led, with orchard fruit, honeyed malt and gentle floral notes.
More recently official bottlings have appeared under the Secret Speyside banner.