Winter months really call for whisky, don’t you think? Not only will a wee dram warm you from inside out, but it will also bring friends together. During this dark and cold season, we should make more time for friends and family, as everyone needs a bit of cheering up in winter. What better way […]
The Scottish gin category is growing so fast it is hard to keep up! Scotland’s gin-producing areas can be separated into six different regions, and between them they boast over 70 distilleries and hundreds of different gins. It’s impossible to sample them all, so I decided to ask some of my fellow gin enthusiasts for […]
Whether you love whisky or are just getting into it, this venue is a great place to enjoy a dram or two. Located in the centre of Edinburgh in a beautiful Victorian building, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar is open to all. Join in a group tasting or private party or simply just pop in for an after-work drink.
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is feeling festive this month and they’d like to invite you to take part in their Whisky with Character celebrations. Throughout May, SMWS is celebrating the wonderful diversity of its whisky along with the colourful characters of its members. If you can’t attend in person, the Society is hosting its […]
Scotland can be divided into six different whisky regions: Speyside, Lowlands, Highlands, Islands, Campbeltown and Islay. Each region has an unique flavour profile, although, as always, there are exceptions to every rule. It is also good to remember these are simply guidelines, not regulations. Overall, Scotland has around 133 whisky distilleries, and some 30 new […]
Did you know that 70% of the gin made in the UK is actually made in Scotland? Scotland’s gin-producing areas can be separated into six different regions, and I thought I’d take a look to see if it is possible to identify what distinguishes each one. Between them they boast over 70 distilleries and hundreds […]
Ancient abbey starts to distil the mythical spirit after a 500-year absence…
There are 128 operating Scotch Whisky distilleries across Scotland and over 50 gin producers. Amongst them there are a few that stand out due to their historical designs, beautiful views or just modern polished looks. I have listed my favourites below. Which ones have you visited?
There are many factors that contribute to the flavours of whisky. Whisky requires some key ingredients, such as barley, yeast and water, as well as materials like oak barrels and copper-crafted pot stills, all of which affect the flavour profile. What makes it even more interesting is how the climate and geological location contribute. What type of rock does the water run through? Is the whisky stored by the sea? A lot comes down to the environment and the cleanliness of the surroundings. Everyone benefits from clean water and good air quality, so it is important for distilleries to consider all the environmental factors throughout the process of making whisky.