Celebrating Burns Night: A Scottish Tradition of Poetry, Whisky, and Haggis


Burns Night, celebrated annually on January 25th, is a time-honoured Scottish tradition that pays homage to the renowned poet Robert Burns. This special occasion brings together Scots and enthusiasts around the world to commemorate the life and contributions of the Bard of Ayrshire. From poetry recitations and traditional Scottish fare to the iconic Burns Supper, this event is a vibrant celebration of Scottish culture, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for the arts.


Robert Burns, born on January 25, 1759, in Alloway, Ayrshire, is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. His works, including timeless pieces like "Auld Lang Syne" and "To a Mouse," capture the essence of Scottish life and history. Burns' ability to convey profound sentiments in his verses has earned him a lasting place in literature, making Burns Night an occasion to remember and celebrate his legacy and impact.


The centrepiece of Burns Night celebrations is the Burns Supper, a festive gathering that typically includes friends, family, and of course Whisky. The supper follows a traditional format, featuring the ceremonial entrance of the haggis accompanied by the recitation of Burns' famous poem "Address to a Haggis."
Throughout the Burns Supper, various toasts are raised, including the "Toast to the Lassies" and the "Reply from the Lassies." These light-hearted speeches celebrate the contributions and qualities of women and their importance in Scottish life. Participants also share toasts to friendship, love, and the enduring spirit of Robert Burns.

We have the perfect selection of Scotch to fully immerse yourself in the experience and revelry of Burns Night. From one of our favourite producers Adelphi Distillery - The distillery was started in 1826 on the banks of the river Clyde, this has paved the way for the modern production of whisky , now in a new property and run by the descendants of the original distiller. With production fully ceasing in the early 1970's this reincarnation started bottling with a number of old casks nearly 30 years later, since then a new distillery was opened in 2014. 

Adelphi Distillery Ardnamurchan Single Malt batch AD 042202 70cl

This batch is a 50/50 mix of peated and unpeated spirit with a split of 65% bourbon and 35% sherry cask matured whisky and bottled at 46.8%. Salted popcorn, minerality, sea salt and brine, with charred marshmallows, bitter orange and dark chocolate. Perfect for newcomers to great Scotch and wonderful in a smoky Old Fashioned.

Ardnamurchan AD/Sherry Cask Release 70cl 50%

The Ardnamurchan AD/Sherry Cask Release is a sophisticated blend of Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez matured whiskies made with peated and unpeated distillates. Bottled at 50%, it delivers a bold, full-bodied flavour with a rich and decadent texture. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavour, sure to please even the most discerning palates. For those of you looking for a more indulgent experience.

Ardnamurchan Maclean's Nose Blended Scotch Whisky 700ml 46%

'Maclean's Nose' is the name of a small peninsula near the Ardnamurchan Distillery - and also a description of one of the most important tools used by one of the world's most renowned whisky writers. - Charles MacLean. It is no surprise then that Adnamurchan have teamed up with this whisky icon to create an incredible blend for a limited run with only 25,000 bottles produced. Maclean's Nose is blended to have a West Coast Character with both a high malt content (70%) and a high proportion of ex-sherry casks. With a nose of burnt citrus peel, sea salt and bonfire with a palate of white chocolate with touches of bright citrus and chantilly cream. This blend is a guaranteed smash at an incredible price.

Adelphi Distillery Glenrothes 1991 57.70% 70cl

For something rare and unforgettable, look no further. The Adelphi range is about bottling rare casks and Glenrothes 1991 57.70% is one of few that we managed to get our hands on! Distilled at Glenrothes in 1991, this Speyside single malt spent a quarter of a century maturing in a single refill sherry hogshead cask, before being bottled up at natural cask strength by Adelphi. Just 144 bottles were produced. For a truly one of a kind celebration don't miss out.

We have also got a number of different Whiskys from some other notable and exciting producers. One of our favourites is Tomatin 12 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70cl 43%.

The Tomatin 12 Year Old core single malt from the ace distillery in the Highlands is classically smooth, matured in traditional Scotch Whisky, ex-Bourbon and ex-Spanish Sherry casks. Fruity, spicy, fresh, herbaceous aromas with green apple joins spicier notes of cinnamon, nutmeg and Parma violets, along with a touch of milk chocolate. On the palate it is full bodied with raspberry jam and a toasty buttery finish.

Burns Night is more than just a celebration of a renowned poet; it is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Scotland. As people around the world come together to honour Robert Burns, they engage in an evening filled with poetry, music, laughter, and the unmistakable warmth of Scottish hospitality (and Whisky). So, whether you're a native Scot or a global admirer, consider joining the festivities on Burns Night for a memorable and spirited celebration of literature, tradition, and the enduring legacy of the Bard of Ayrshire.

Explore our full range of Whisky here on our website or visit us at our Kemptown shop and chat to a member of our team.