Conservation projects in Scotland’s “Big Four” salmon rivers are set to benefit from the launch of a quartet of special malt whiskies to raise much needed funds to help conserve Scotland’s most important salmon rivers. Master distiller Richard Paterson has created four unique and exclusive expressions of The Dalmore, each representing the different character and charms of the rivers Dee, Spey, Tay and Tweed.

In an unprecedented move, conservation trusts on the Dee, Spey, Tay and Tweed have joined forces with one commercial partner to help conserve some of Scotland’s finest rivers and most important freshwater habitats. At least £4 of every bottle will be gifted to the relevant river trust or foundation.

The move follows the success of the limited edition Dalmore Dee Dram which was launched last year and sold out in nine weeks raising £35,000 to help protect and conserve the iconic River Dee.

John Beard, CEO of Whyte and Mackay which owns The Dalmore whisky, said: “We are delighted to help raise money for Scotland’s “big four” rivers. They are of great importance environmentally, as valuable recreation areas for thousands, and also as the lifeblood of rural communities.

“As our successful partnership with the River Dee Trust has proved, this project is an innovative way of providing a special dram to enjoy after fishing whilst also helping to protect these rivers which have been enjoyed by anglers, locals and visitors for centuries.”

The £35,000 raised by the Dalmore Dee Dram is already helping to open up 25 miles of river and important spawning grounds that have been blocked to migrating adult salmon for as long as 100 years.

The Dalmore Rivers project promises to have an even wider reaching conservation impact across all four rivers, helping to protect salmon, sea trout, otters, rare birdlife and many other plant and animal species.