Each of the distilleries involved – Balblair, Clynelish, Glenmorangie, Pulteney, Dalmore, Glen Ord, Tomatin and Wolfburn – will host an open day during the festival’s runtime, featuring tastings and special events designed to showcase 'centuries of tradition, process and craft’.

The festival is based along the North Coast 500, a 516-mile driving route along the north coast of Scotland covering distilleries, tourist attractions and areas of natural beauty.

The Highland Whisky Festival will also be arranging partnerships with attractions and local businesses, encouraging attendees to explore the Highlands further.

Festival coordinator Kate Waugh said: ‘With the continuing increase in whisky tourism, especially along the North Coast 500, we identified an opportunity for the Highland distilleries to have a festival of their own.

‘The effort of travelling is rewarded not only by world class whiskies but stunning landscapes and the warm welcoming Highland hospitality.’

Tickets for the Highland Whisky Festival will be on sale from early March.

The celebrations will take place in the same month as two other established regional Scotch whisky festivals: Spirit of Speyside, which will run from 1-6 May 2019, and Fèis Ìle, situated on Islay, which will take place from 24 May-1 June 2019.