Burns Night

Every year on the 25th January we take time to celebrate one of Scotlands most celebrated poets and it’s unofficial ‘National Bard’ Robert Burns. This has been a tradition for well over 200 years and has remained relatively unchanged in the way it is celebrated since it’s inception in 1801.

Here are a few tips on how to celebrate Burns Night and pay tribute to a national icon;

Food - Burns supper would not be the same without its iconic centrepiece, a traditional haggis accompanied by neeps and tatties (also know as turnips and potatoes). Vegetarians don’t fret their are meat free haggis alternatives available too!

Poetry - It would seem a missed opportunity to celebrate the poet without including the poetry. Some notable works include;

• Ae Fond Kiss. Regarded as Burns’ most romantic work and covered by a handful of Scottish artists ”Ae fond kiss, and then we sever; Ae fareweel, alas, for ever..."

• Auld Lang Syne. Easily his most famous work and one of the most recognisable songs in the English language. Heard around the globe when celebrating Hogmanay. "Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind..."

• Adress to a Haggis. A favourite among fans and often the first recited at Burns supper. Written to convey his love for the Scottish delicacy. "Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o the puddin'-race..."

Whisky - as much a part of Scotland’s identity as bagpipes and kilts, Burns Night would not be the same without some beautiful Scotch. We have picked a few of our favourites for you to enjoy on the night and throughout the year.

Dalmore Single Malt 12 year old

Dalmore distillery traces its origins back over 180 years. For the last century they have been run by Clan Mckenzie and it is the family crest that inspired the iconic antler branding. Located deep in the Scottish highlands, they are perfectly situated to take advantage of a plethora of the natural resources that define their memorable style. The 12 year old single malt is pale gold in colour, musky with notes of soil, grass, oranges and a butterscotch. The palate shows a gentle smokiness with flavours of citrus and vanilla supported by oak and spice complexity. Finishes beautifully with an unmistakable sherry influence.

Tomatin 12 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

In the heart of the idyllic Scottish Highlands, the Tomatin distillery have been bottling the purest essence of Scottish whisky since 1987. In this mythical region, the naturally soft water of the Alt-na-Frith burn is introduced to tender Scottish barley an from the tall, slim copper stills of the Tomatin Distillery a mellow, fruity spirit is born. Undeniably smooth and light with aromas of wild heather, pine and cedar. The palate sings with apples, pears and mango touched by hints of charred oak, walnut and creme caramel with a full-bodied and buttery finish. Matured in Bourbon barrels and Sherry casks for a moreish finish.

Adelphi Distillery Ardnamurchan Single Malt Madeira AD 10.22

The distillery was started in 1826 on the banks of the river Clyde, they have paved the way for the modern production of whisky and have been at the forefront of sustainability in whisky production having installed a biomass boiler and hydro-electric generator. Now in a new property and run by the descendants of the original distiller. In the early 1970's production ceased and the new reincarnation started bottling with a number of old casks nearly 30 years later, since then a new distillery was opened in 2014.

For this single malt they used unpeated spirit, aged in bourbon casks and finished in Madeira casks, which adds juicy fruity notes.

Burnt caramel and honey coated dates on the nose with hints of bitter walnut oil and blood orange marmalade. The palate is a beautiful blend of rich jasmine tea, panna cotta, waxy honey and subtle red fruits. Perfectly balanced with hints of tobacco leaf and spice at the finish. Deliciously elegant.

Pick these up on our website or in store where you can find our entire range of Whiskys and have a fantastic Burns Night and let the words of Robert Burns inspire you to have a fantastic year!