NOT ONLY IS IT POPULAR IN ITS HOMELAND SCOTCH WHISKY
IS FAVOURED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD TO SUCH AN
EXTENT THAT IT IS THE COUNTRY'S MAIN EXPORT.
Whisky
the ‘Water of Life’ has been produced in Scotland since the
1700’s. "Scotch" may only be used correctly when referring
either to whisky or mist.
There are two main types of whisky — Malt and Grain — the
latter being the main source of Blended whisky. Most of the Scotch that
is drunk every day is a blend of grain whisky and single Malts. Each
Blender is highly skilled in producing the exact taste for their market.
The Malts however provide much more variety and distinctive tastes.
There are four main groups, Highland (the biggest), Lowland,
Islay and Campbeltown — although the latter area
sports only a few distilleries left from its heyday in the 1800's when
it had well over 30.
Not all distilleries accommodate visitors but those who do, provide
an interesting tour demonstrating the manufacturing process along with
a "wee dram" at the end of the tour and an opportunity to
purchase some samples.
A holiday in Scotland could be spent visiting Distilleries and sampling
the product, although it would be advisable to take a driver! The first
time visitor to any Scottish Pub or Restaurant will be amazed at the
choice of single Malts, there are literally dozens.
The smaller Distilleries are in the main more interesting because almost
without exception they are set in picturesque locations. The island
Distilleries provide a chance to visit the more remote locations and
the whiskys produced here have a distinctly peaty and "seaside"
flavour.
‘Discovering Distilleries’ is available at all Tourist Information
Centres and provides an excellent basis to start the Whisky Trail.
FERRY
TRAIL
Scotland
with so many long peninsulas and islands could be difficult to explore
if it were not for ferry services. A trip to the West Coast would not
be complete without a visit to one of the lsles — each with their
own distinctive character, appearance and history.
The main ferry company is Caledonian MacBrayne who operate a year round
service together with go-as-you-please tickets and can provide help
in planning your itinerary. Whether it be from Gourock to Dunoon on
the Clyde or Oban to South Uist, Caledonian MacBrayne can provide a
fast reliable service. They can also help with accommodation. Reservation
Office 0990 650000.
The Argyll & Antrim Steam Packet Company offer a service between
Ballycastle N.Ireland and Campbeltown on Kintyre and can be contacted
on (01345) 523523.
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