Autumn Edition 2013 Issue 88
Foster’s Comedy award winners revealed Interview: Georgie Bell, Scotland’s whisky belle Bar Browser: Indigo Yard 1
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From new bar openings, to festivals it’s all been happening over the last month and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. Edinburgh is certainly raising the flag when it comes to new bar openings, and there has been no less than seven newly opened and refurbished venues in the East. Perfect timing for the Fringe Festival. Talking of the Fringe..our front cover shows comedian Bridget Christie, who picked up the Foster’s Edinburgh comedy award at this year’s festival. She is the first women since 2005 to pick up the accolade and the £10,000 cash prize. You can catch up on all the news in your area on pages 4 - 8. Two of the bars that are now sporting a new look are Indigo Yard and Amicus Apple which feature as this month’s bar browsers on pages 10 and 11, and 18. Most of the newer bars opening in both Glasgow and Edinburgh are celebrating the craft beer trend, which is why our drinks feature this month gives a nod to the craft beers out there that you should be looking out for. Our dining out guide this month is sponsored by Birra Morretti, who have chosen six venues across Glasgow and Edinburgh that are worth checking out. However it’s not all about beer this month. Our interview this issue is with Global Brand Ambassador Georgie Bell who works for the Scottish Malt Whisky Society. She has a passion for whisky and travelling, and more than a few stories to tell. Check out what she had to say on pages 16 and 17. I hope you enjoy this issue, Take it easy, Lynn Lynn Kelly Editor lynn@mediaworldltd.com
04 . . . . . . . . News 10 . . . . . . . . Bar Browser Indigo Yard 13 . . . . . . . . Drinks Feature Which Craft? 16 . . . . . . . . Interview Scotch Malt Whisky . . . . . . . . . . . . .Society’s Georgie Bell 18 . . . . . . . . Bar Browser Amicus Apple 20 . . . . . . . . Fashion Autumn Trends
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The publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors/ omissions. Any transparencies or artwork will be accepted at owner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made to the publisher. Articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers.
Editor-in-chief: Susan Young Editor: Lynn Kelly Administration: Lynn Menagh Production Manager: Jill Donald
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News Hard Rock gets set to rock Glasgow Glasgow is to get its first Hard Rock Cafe. It will open in the former Athenaeum Theatre in Buchanan Street in November. It will feature a live music area and a ‘rock shop. And, as with the other Hard Rock Cafe venues, Glasgow’s will display memorabilia from rock and roll history including a green twopiece suit worn by The Who’s Pete Townsend in the 1975 hit film, ‘Tommy’, an artist’s paint palette used by Scottish-born fifth Beatle, Stuart Sutcliffe when he was at Liverpool College of Art, and a sports tie worn by guitarist Eric Clapton.
Hornsby’s Launches Another new cider has launched. This time it’s American US cider brand, Hornsby’s. The brand, which is now owned by the folk behind Tennent’s, comes in two flavours; Crisp Apple (4.5% ABV) and Strawberry & Lime (4% ABV), and is designed to be drunk straight from the bottle and not over ice. Hornsby’s is already one of the leading cider brands in America and one of the top brands in the US West Coast.
Kokomo on West Regent St, Glasgow, is set to open later this month. The new nightclub and bar concept comes from the team behind Bunker and Bamboo. In fact Kokoma is adjacent to Bamboo. The new late bar and nightclub will have two spaces for drinking, dancing and some eating with the food catered for by Southside burger business, Buddy’s BBQ. 4
Style bar for Princes Street
For the first time in ages we can report a new style bar has opened on Princes Street. In a break away from the craft beer trend, Twenty Princes Street and its Juniper Bar, come in at the other end of the spectrum completely. Polished marble, a glossy white bar, and bespoke furniture in distinctive aubergine and cranberry colours, wing chairs and elegant bartenders add a distinctly posh element to what was once the Royal British Hotel, and which will soon be called an Indigo Hotel. It’s not just a bar, there is a classic restaurant too. It has large semi circular banquettes, huge windows overlooking Princes Street, and an impressive Champagne display. It’s worth checking out at 20 Princes Street.
The place to be...Canongate!
Canongate in Edinburgh is a hive of activity. First the former Stags Head pub on the corner of Broughton Road and Rodney Street, was transformed into the Other Place Bar and Kitchen, and then a few weeks later Cross & Corner opened across the road. The Other Place is a light and airy bar, with a striking gantry, and a range of 10 draught beers and food, which has an American influence. While the Cross & Corner is a smaller, quirky bar priding itself on its craft beer. The locals are lapping it up as they now have two great neighbourhood bars in the vicinity – a wee ciruit!
Red Stripe now in a stubby Red Stripe, the authentic Jamaican lager brand, is now available in Scotland’s bars in a iconic ‘stubby’ bottle, which is the original Jamaican bottle design.
Bar Roma Closes
Edinburgh’s Bar Roma holds lots of great memories for many people. In fact, I’m quite sure generations of Edinburgh youngsters were conceived after their parents had a night out at the popular city restaurant. That’s why it such a shame it has closed. It was in the news last year after popular staff member, Dante D’Onofrio died from a rare medical condition - the restaurant’s Facebook page received more than 2,500 messages of condolence for the popular and lively waiter.
Autumn Edition Issue 88 2013
Foster’s Comedy winners award revealed Interview Scotland : Georgie Bell, ’s whisk y belle Bar Bro ws Indigo er: Yard 1
COVER STORY: BRIDGET SCOOPS BEST COMEDY SHOW
Southern Comfort unveils new character Southern Comfort is amusing consumers with its TV campaign which aims to inspire the awesome attitude of people who are completely comfortable with themselves, with the second instalment of its popular TV advert. The first featured an overweight bloke strolling along the beach with the title ‘Whatever’s Comfortable’. The new ad features a new distinctive male
lead. Set in a salon, the advert shows the man, who is clearly confident with his own unique sense of style, reclining in his chair as he has his long hair washed. As his hair is shampooed he catches the attention of a female onlooker who is drawn to his self-assured attitude. Reaffirming his nonchalant manner, he simply gives her a little nod and continues to enjoy his rinse whilst also enjoying the taste of Southern Comfort. The final frame shows the man holding a glass of Southern Comfort with the flag bearing the campaign strapline; ‘Whatever’s Comfortable’.
Female stand-up, Bridget Christie emerged from a seven-strong shortlist to scoop the Best Comedy Show award and a cheque for £10,000 at the 33rd Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards. Bridget’s show, ‘A Bic for Her’, which relentlessly ridicules everyday sexism, chauvinistic sports commentators and the prominence of lads mags on newsagents shelves, was described by the judges as “beautifully written and delightfully delivered by a consummate comic.” The Award for Foster’s Best Newcomer Prize and a cheque for £5,000 went to John Kearns for his show ‘Sight Gags for Perverts’ which took its title from the description one critic famously gave to the black comedy Dr Strangelove when the Stanley Kubrick film was released in 1964. The Foster’s Panel Prize and a cheque for £5,000 was awarded to Adrienne Truscott, one half of the New York burlesque double act the Wau Wau Sisters for her stand up debut ‘Asking For It’, which critiqued the fashion for rape jokes in comedy. Our cover features the three winners. If you enjoy drinking Edinburgh Gin in your favourite bar you will be delighted to know you can now buy Edinburgh Gin and its Raspberry infused version in 31 Sainsbury stores across Scotland. The brand, which is owned by Spencerfield Spirit Company, and distributed by Ian Macleod Distillers, has already won a string of awards, and this new listing will make it more widely available. 5
News TREAT FOR CHOCOLATE LOVERS
Potting Shed plants at Potterrow Last year it was a pop up bar for Innis & Gunn during the festival - this year, the former Native State, on Potterrow, is a new bar called ‘The Potting Shed Bar and Grill.’ The bar, which opened at the beginning of August, all things gardening as its theme. From its lampshades, buckets, of the Oor Wullie variety, to the pitchforks on the walls. Unsurprisingly the menu is varied, as it is owned by the folk behind the Sun Inn in Dalkeith – a well known gastro pub. The Potting Shed offers a lot of seafood from mussels to lobster and of the ubiquitous burger. The bar also makes its own bread. Cocktails, and of course craft beers feature strongly on the drinks menu. But what sets this bar apart is that it opens at 7am and stays open until 1am. It’s at 32-34 Potterrow.
Baileys, the UK’s number one cream liqueur, has launched Baileys Chocolat Luxe. The new liqueur uses real Belgian chocolate blended with Irish whiskey. Sounds lovely. Kerry Owens, Category Director for Baileys Diageo Western Europe, said, “Baileys was the first brand to fuse whiskey and cream. With Baileys Chocolat Luxe, we’re proud to say we’ve achieved another breakthrough in spirits innovation - the first time real Belgian chocolate has been fused with alcohol to deliver a real Belgian chocolate experience.”
It’s Lucky Liquor Finnieston’s latest restaurant gets set to be unveiled Peter McKenna and Ivan Stein, the two chefs behind the Gannet in Finnieston are getting set to open their new venture. The 60-cover bar and eatery next to the Ben Nevis is running slightly behind schedule, but the two plan to open in September. Locals are expecting to see the new restaurant frequented by a star or two, due to the fact that Stein’s wife is actress Daniela Nardini. She has said she will have to frequent the restaurant if she and her daughter want to see her husband for the next few years. The two chefs, who met while working for Michael Caines at Abode, will offer what they call “fine dining food with the fuss.” Meanwhile the Kelvingrove Cafe, next door has re-opened. The Cafe, which was closed for the past two months due to licensing difficulties, is now back in business.
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Since our last Repertorie, the guys behind Bramble and the Last Word have opened Lucky Liquor Co, on Queen Street, Edinburgh. The bar, which is small, was previously Drinkies Wine Bar and is situated just along the road from Bramble. The bar is a lot lighter than Bramble and has a retro feel, white tiles and light wood. As you would expect, the drinks are well made and the bar staff know their stuff. It feels and smells new, despite having been open since June. It’s at 39a Queen Street, Edinburgh.
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News MUSIC FANS GET SET TO WELCOME THE HYDRO
The long-awaited SSE Hydro will open at the end of this month and music fans are in for a treat. With a seating capacity of 12,000, the venue has already attracted top acts for the next 12 months and beyond. Rod Stewart will officially launch the venue with his ‘Time Tour.’ It’s not just artists that have signed up, Heineken too has been drafted in as the drinks sponsor. The Dutch brewing giant has signed a five-year supply deal which means music fans will be able to enjoy Heineken, Foster’s, Amstel, John Smith’s, Strongbow, and Bulmers at the venue’s nine bars. The SSE Hydro will augment the SECC’s existing facilities, and will play host to around 140 events every year. Acts already booked to play between now and the end of the year include Bruno Mars, Jessie J, Arctic Monkeys and Stereophonics.
Taproom for Elm Row Look out for some new Absolut bottles. The brand has revealed striking new designs for its range of flavoured vodkas. Very artistic they are too as you can see for yourself. Anna Kamjou, Global Design Director at Absolut said, “This is one of the most dramatic changes we’ve ever made and our biggest, and most transformative design project ever. Our goal was to give our customers distinctive designs unlike anything anyone has ever seen. Vibrant, captivating bottles that bring energy to any occasion and celebrate the fact every flavour in the Absolut Vodka range is something extraordinary.” Glasgow’s blossoming Finnieston area has another new bar to add to its increasing list of night spots, with the reincarnation of an Argyle Street favourite. Previously the Pour House and latterly the Gallery, 1038 – 1042 Argyle Street now has a new tenant – and they certainly won’t be turning down the music for their neighbours. Expect a plethora of black denim, leather, long hair, tattoos, and beards in new rock
n’ roll bar, Rockus. Run by Russell Buchanan, who also runs nearby Brass Monkey and Bearsden’s, the Den, the bar is the newest addition to the West End bar circuit. Rockus claims to fill the West End’s rock bar void, with fun and laid-back nights filled with drinking and plenty of rock music. The bar has it’s very own, brand new jukebox too, full of the best rock tunes in town, with no commercial pop in sight.
Jeremiah’s Taproom in Elm Row has recently opened after a complete revamp. The bar, formerly the Elm Bar, has an extensive beer menu, although it has not gone down the route of craft only. The new range offers mainstream brands including Tennent’s, as well as four cask and six ‘craft keg’. The food menu consists of 15 gourmet burgers, hotdogs, pulled pork sandwiches, and Sunday Roasts. One of the quirky features about this bar is that they are using bespoke mini fruit crates as burger boards. It has, as seems to be the order of the day, a traditional, but tweedy look, really funky lights, as well as a horse shoe bar and raised gantry with wood, brick and old tiles completing the look. It’s a bar for everyone, with reasonable prices and a large pavement area.
Eclectic range from Kopparberg goes down the festival route
Swedish drinks giants, Kopparberg are to join forces with Urban Outfitters and Beyond Retro to showcase the new way to enjoy their variants. Their innovative ‘pour’ campaign was born after a stint with top mixologist, Susie Wong, and will see the campaign showcased at a brand sampling activity. Kopparberg is sponsoring a number of events, including a tour of the UK festival circuit, to promote their ‘Eclectics’ range, which includes flavours like Elderflower & Lime and Cloudberry. Thanks to Wong’s influence, the Cloudberry flavour is matched with pink grapefruit, whilst the new Elderflower & Lime drink is served over chunks of ice and slices of refreshing cucumber for the perfect tipple. Head of Marketing, Rob Calder said, “We are extremely pleased with how our Eclectics range has been received. The new variants have proved to be hugely popular amongst our fans and have contributed to the rising sales that we’ve seen this summer.”
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Late License for Glasgow
There was great news for city centre revellers this week, after it was announced Glasgow pubs would be allowed to stay open until 1am thanks to new licensing laws. At the moment 12am is the cut off for bars in places like Sauchiehall Street, Bath Street, and parts of Merchant City unless they have a specialist entertainment license. But, revellers looking to extend their enjoyment of the evening, without stumbling into clubs, will be able to refresh themselves that little bit longer. Glasgow City Council bosses say they will introduce the plan as a result of “changing socialising habits”. The move will bring the city in line with Edinburgh.
Around 225 premises bordered by the M8, Clyde and High Street to east area are expected to benefit from the change, just in time for New Year celebrations. However, the Council say they don’t expect all bars entitled to do so, to take up the offer. Casinos offering an after-hours club with alcohol served till 6am face a clampdown, whilst premises outside the city centre providing entertainment until 3am, also face a clamp down. Other proposals to be considered include relaxing the 10pm curfew for outside drinking at venues and the withdrawal of early morning licences for pubs claiming to serve alcohol to shift workers and market traders.
Countdown to Bar and Pub Month 2013 Get ready to visit your local bar or pub to celebrate the 2nd annual Bar and Pub Month which takes place this October. This initiative aims to entice folk back into bars and pubs to celebrate all that’s great about Scotland’s licensed trade. The month long celebration will see pubs and bars throughout the country putting on live music, and other special events to ensure that there is plenty on offer during this key month. For instance Glasgow’s Oran Mor has already revealed that The Jazz Club Murder by James Runcie - A Play A Pie & A Pint – will run from 1st October to 5th October and it will be running a Pub Quiz in the Whisky Bar on 20th October. JD Wetherspoons Henglers Circus at 351363 Sauchiehall St is running a Tuesday night Steak club night (steak club-£5.99) and a Thursday (curry club-£4.99) as well as a Friday (Fish Friday-£6.35) and Sunday Club (Sunday dinners-£5.99). On
Thursday’s it is also running a Bad Boy Pub Quiz and the winner has a chance to win a case of beer. This is a popular night for the students who love their newest drinks “Pint-tails” (A cocktail served in a pint glass). Similar events are taking place at most of the JD Wetherspoons outlets in Scotland. But you can check out our website www.barandpubmonth.com to find out what is going on in your local bars and pubs. Says organiser Susan Young, “The aim of Bar and Pub Month is to get people to revisit their locals and check out what pubs have to offer throughout Scotland.” Newspapers in the Media Scotland group, which includes the Ayrshire Post, Kilmarnock Standard, Perthshire Advertiser, Hamilton Advertiser, East Kilbride News and some twelve others will be carrying editorial features on Scotland’s great pubs. There will be plenty happening during Bar and Pub month... so why not pay a visit to your local bars and pubs.
Glasgow’s Butchershop Bar and Grill has been shortlisted for best performing business at a prestigious awards do. A firm favourite amongst Westenders, the steak and cocktail specialists will fight it out with other finalists to scoop the accolade at the city’s Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. And the Butchershop is the only restaurant vying for the title in the 11-50 employees category. A spokesman for the restaurant said, “We are chuffed to bits to be named as finalists.” Thousands of entries were whittled down to create a list the Chamber says represents the best businesses in Glasgow. Chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Stuart Patrick said, “The quality and diversity of companies who submitted entries has been outstanding.” Winners of all categories will be announced at the awards night on October 3. 9
bar browser: Indigo Yard
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or years this popular Edinburgh haunt was better known as a style bar, renowned for their great cocktails. Now, new look IY - as it’s now known- has been transformed and is all about craft, both in look and their beer offering. From the rustic heavy looking bar top, to the quirky beer menu that hangs above the bar, you get the feeling of a craft beer bar from the moment you rock up. In total it stocks 25 draught and 36 bottled beer and one which is going down a storm is Blue Moon, which is brewed with Valencia and Navel orange peel for a smooth, creamy and unfiltered wheat beer. They also offer a fantastic range of whisky and bourbon. Check out the full menu offering on www.edinburghyardedinburgh.co.uk. The food menu has also been revamped, and includes dishes like the Indigo ground Orkney steak burger and slow roasted five spiced pork belly. They also offer a dine out for £10 deal, which gets you 2 main courses for a tenner at lunch time, and a starter and a main for dinner. This is great value for money.
What to look out for
n A great craft beer selection n Delicious pulled pork pittas n Dine out for £10 seven days
a week
Indigo Yard 7 Charlotte Lane Edinburgh EH2 4QZ 10 220 5603 www.indigoyardedinburgh.co.uk tel 0131
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COLUMN
Words: Fraser Wilson
THE BIG THREE - O NO! I
A million pounds. A six-pack. Fame. Hoards of fan followers. A dog called Pudding. Just a few of the things I wanted to have laid claim to before turning 30. The big three-0. have to say, in most respects I’m not all that bothered about turning 30. I don’t feel over the hill, achy, slow, more susceptible to crippling disease or ailments. I don’t feel necessarily less active or less appealing to the opposite sex. And for all I haven’t achieved, I’ve actually achieved a lot. I’m engaged; I live with my fiancee; I’ve worked abroad; I have two degrees; and I’ve changed careers. Yet as October looms near, I can’t help but feel disappointed at the lack of my millions and that of my washboard abs. Both still goals for the next big milestone I may add. So what is it about milestone birthdays that get to us all? I’ve often thought it’s all down to social pressure. People put so much emphasis on entering into a new decade in terms of birthdays. But let’s not forget, these milestones are usually created by pesky marketing executives who have ceased on the opportunity to take advantage of our emotional frailty when in a group situation, punting frilly balloons, oversized cards, and humorous gimmicks to make a quick buck. After 21 there’s not much you can’t do. Sixteen, 18, and 21 are all important to what you are able to do as an adult in British society. Whether that’s being legal to have sex, smoke, gamble, drink, vote, become a Lord, stand to be a member of parliament. All of these need you to reach a certain age so as to be legally able to do them. But what will I be able to do once I’m 30 that I can’t do at 29? I’ll be ticking a different box on the numerous, pointless forms asked of us to be completed by insurance companies, banks, the DVLA, the tax man, and Tesco to name but a few. But I’m too young to get away with using senility as an excuse for my social misdemeanours or less than PC views and I’ll be too old to claim I didn’t know any better. 12
So, making a big deal of turning 30, 35, 40 is all the result of manufacturers and companies looking to benefit from our inate need to be comforted by a large group of people in a dark room waiting to jump on us to shout ‘surprise’ as we are treated to a forced party. Ironic in itself, as such sharp frights are likely to decrease your chance making your next birthday due to a fear induced heart attack. Surviving this forced ambush will result in cheers of ‘congratulations;’ ‘well done;’ ‘you’re not over the hill just yet;’ ‘30 is the new 21’ and other such cringeworthy cliches. Nobody really means it, they just want to get pissed and have a party. They want to buy you lovely presents so when it’s their birthday, you’ll buy them something lovelier. It’s an emotional time, I get it. And everyone wants to celebrate occasions with their friends and family. You’re only here once and each decade should be a big deal. It means you’re taking on life and winning. It means your able to mature, grow, develop, gain a perspective on things, realise some of lives mysteries and, in the end, understand the meaning of life. But, simply, the big deal about growing older, milestone birthdays, and the fear surrounding them, is the idea of being one step closer to the grave. Other than that we’re just guinea-pigs to capitilisation. If you haven’t guessed incidentally, growing older makes you much more cynical. As for my thirties, I’m hoping they’ll be filled with some of the best memories yet. That’s excluding the night out, which I’m hoping is a night of blazing adultery fuelled by alcohol, to be engrained on my mind as one of the best nights ever, without any clear indication of the evening’s specifics. It’s gonna be great
Which Craft?
Words: Fraser Wilson
I remember standing in bars when I was younger looking for the cheapest pint of lager that would let my limited income go further and the night last that bit longer. Thankfully there were plenty to choose from and, now I’ve moved away from cheap lagers in student unions, there remains a plethora of desirable lagers, real ales, and cask ales to choose from. Here we review twelve of the best at the moment and where to get your hands on them. We urge you to step away from the norm and broaden the horizons of your lager swilling palate.
Blue Moon
The Americans aren’t known for their quality beers and the main offending large production breweries churn out ‘low-cal,’ low flavour, low percentage lagers by the bucket-load. They would definitely rival the muck you used to get in the student union for worst pint. But, when President Obama announced he was retiring to the White House for a celebratory Blue Moon after winning the presidential election, mainstream brewer, Molson Coors were instantly onto a winner with this unfiltered wheat beer. A triumphant beer.
Bitter and Twisted
This is a beast of a beer from Harviestoun Brewery. It isn’t heavy to drink and at 4.2%, is a good session beer. Beware of it’s wrath though, both when you leave the bar and get a tad dizzy, and the next morning, when you shouldn’t stand close to naked flames or pretty ladies.
Brooklyn Lager
The last traditional brewery in Brooklyn, New York, closed in the 1970s. Brewing was rediscovered 18 years later with the establishment of the Brooklyn
Hanging Bat, Edinburgh Brewery, founded by a banker and a journalist, both of whom were beer enthusiasts. This punchy Vienna-style amber lager is 5.1%, is full and rich on the palate. A favourite of many, but can be expensive.
Camden Pale Ale
Certainly one of the buzz beers around just now, Camden Town Brewery brew under railway arches. In 2010 the company converted seven Victorian arches, installing a modern brewery in the heart of Camden Town. They claim, “Like the Queen wearing dirty sneakers, it’s traditionally British with a rock star twist of American hops.” At 4% this is ideal for a session beer and very enjoyable. One of the best pale ales around.
Deuchars IPA
One of my favourites. I love old man pubs and old man beers, and this typifies both. A brilliantly punchy IPA, this should be the bench mark for IPAs in my opinion. Starting with the real hoppy nose, this has notes of citrus and an underlying presence of malt. It will challenge the taste buds and is a good session beer.
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Cross and Corner, Edinburgh
hard hitting AVB BrewDog have become known for, despite being much lower than their highest AVB of 55% for their End of History beer.
Sam Adams Boston Lager
America has recently undergone an overhaul of what to expect from beer and sees the micro brewery phenomenon sweeping the nation, providing alternatives to the highly marketed, mainstream norm. However, Sam Adams has been the mainstay or American beers for decades and offers some real classic session drinks. The most common form is the Boston Lager.
Fraoch
This is the original craft beer and was first brewed in Scotland in 2000 B.C. Williams Brothers have been guardians of the ancient Gaelic recipe for ‘leann fraoich’ since 1988 and are the only brewery still producing and distributing this unique style of beer world wide. A light amber ale, with floral peaty aroma, full malt character, and a spicy herbal finish. This beer allows you to literally pour 4000 years of Scottish history into a glass.
Franciscan Well Friar Weisse
Experimenting with vegetarianism in your youth is a pretty common occurrence, but how do you, in good conscience, have one or two beers knowing your drink of choice meets your new dietary morals? The Irish made this German Weisse beer brewed to the German Purity Law and chemical-free - no additives, preservatives or finings are used in its production. This means it is an ideal drink for vegetarians.
Innis and Gunn Original
Celebrating their 10th birthday this year, Innis and Gunn can thank their lucky stars for the good fortune that led their now established success. The beer’s distinctive depth of flavour was discovered by accident, after a whisky maker seeking to season their oak casks with the sweet, malty character of a full-flavoured beer used an Innis and Gunn custom-made beer to bed their barrels. The beer was discarded 30 days later. The company’s master brewer was later contacted about the beer, after staff at the distillery sampled it, raving about the end product. At 6.6%, you can imagine this is a connoisseurs drink, definitely not a session beer. One or two will see you fine. This smooth beer offers hints of toffee, vanilla and oak.
Punk IPA
Scottish Brewers, BrewDog don’t really need any introduction and their Punk IPA is their leading mainstream night. At 5.6%, this typifies the 14
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
One of the best regarded micro breweries in America, Sierra Nevada was established in 1981, before moving to a purpose built brewery at the site of a former dairy in 1989. Their Pale Ale has won a host of awards and is similar to a traditional English pale ale. Punchy at 5.6%, it has a good citrus nose, with notes of apple and cinnamon, disguising its strength well and is a great tipple for the beer garden in the sun.
St Mungo’s
Uniquely produced in accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516, the Reinheitsgebot, the production of St Mungo’s lager in Glasgow merges centuries of traditional practice with state of the art equipment. The WEST Brewery is based at the former carpet and textiles factory, the Templeton building. The full bodied hybrid beer is a cross between a true Bavarian Helles and a northern German Pils, and makes for easy drinking. Some of the beauties above can be found in bars across the country. There are a number of specialist haunts following the likes of Brewdog, Inn Deep, and Munro’s in Glasgow, as well as the Hanging Bat and Caley Sample Room in Edinburgh, Indigo Yard on Charlotte Lane and the Cross and Corner also in Edinburgh.
Girls Uptown What a great night out was had at the recent Girls Uptown night at the Glasgow Hilton. Apart from being a superb night the girls there raised more than ÂŁ35K for the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice. Photos: Alan Bryant.
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Georgie Bell London born, turned Edinburgh gal Georgie Bell has a landed her ideal job, working as Global Ambassador for the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS). I thought I was busy, but this girl never stops. Mainly because a huge part of her job is to travel around the international branches including India, Canada, Taiwan, U.S.A, Japan and Australia. Her job is her life and she wouldn’t change a thing. We caught up one morning during the Fringe, and spoke about her whisky highlights and just some of the many adventures she’s had since starting her new role.
How did you end up working in the drinks industry?
I started working in Opal Lounge during my first year at University. Back then I couldn’t even pull a pint, but pretty quickly I fell in love with spirits and the culture and history behind the brands I worked with. I was lucky to work in some great cocktail bars including Dragonfly then Tigerlily, which is when I participated in the Maxxium Bar Apprentice. It was then I realised I wanted a career in the drinks and hospitality industry.
So when did you join SMWS?
When I was finishing up Uni I was working at Hotel Missoni. A job came up on Gumtree for a bartending job at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. I knew the company as my dad was a member, and I put everything into getting that job. I sent about five different CV’s, got an interview and landed a job behind the bar. That was in 2010.
And just two years on, you’re a Global Society Ambassador!?
Yes, after six months of joining SMWS I starting doing ambassador led work including tastings in-house. I wanted to learn everything about every brand, so much so that I started a Diploma in Distillation. It has taken over two years, but I’m just weeks away from getting my final set of results. In October 2012 I started my new role as Global Brand Ambassador and I now look after our international branches. I love that 70% of my role is travelling, mainly to the U.S, Canada and Australia. In fact in November I will be visiting Japan and Taiwan again. I usually go away for a month at a time.
What do you love most about your role?
I love that I can now make social and professional friends all around the world. I love experiencing new cultures and every market is different. The U.S 16
Words: Lynn Kelly
WHISKY BELLE market for example is very much SMWS bar launches, consumer tastings, PR and awareness. Then when we launched our Indian branch in Mumbai, I got to see elegance at its finest – their appreciation of whisky is like no other. I love that my job is to socialise and interact with other people. You have to be your best all the time, which really pushes you. You never know who you might meet.
dialect coach who shared my passion for rye whisky. He called me a few days later to say another actor was visiting town and did I want to meet him. You can imagine my response when he told me it was Christopher Eccleston from Doctor Who. It’s funny how whisky brings people together.
Have you met anyone famous on your travels?
It can work both ways. In more established markets they get it, but in some traditional markets it’s much more foreign to them. I like the challenge though, as I get to prove myself. You can be sitting hosting a tasting and you drop that golden bullet of knowledge and suddenly you’ve got their attention. Whisky is changing so much so it’s great to break those stereotypes - if we don’t then we won’t open up to new audiences.
I visited a good girl friend of mine when I was in New York just there in July. She lives just off Bleeker Street and we were on her rooftop garden drinking a pitcher of Manhattans and some Brooklyn Sangria. Next thing her neighbour walks in with the actor Nick Hoult. Suddenly a relaxed social visit became a run in with a British actor. It turns out her neighbour is a voice
Do you find people are surprised that you’re a female representing whisky?
twitter.com/BellesWhisky Whisky is so versatile. You don’t have to be a man to drink whisky these days.
What is your whisky of choice?
It depends on my mood, but I know that I can always have a Highland Park 12, Talisker 10 or an Ardberg 10 and they will never go wrong. I have a soft spot for Glenfarclas as that was the malt that got me into whisky. I also love a Longmorn from Speyside. All these malts put a smile on my face.
What have been your travel highlights?
There are so many, I get to meet fantastic people. I also love all things indulgent in life so I make sure I try out the top restaurants and bars when travelling. A few memories that stand out are from when I first visited Mumbai. On my first night a fashion designer and his photographer friend wanted to take me out and show me the real Mumbai experience.
Despite never meeting me before they were so hospitable and took me to the Four Seasons which had the best view in Mumbai, then we went on and visited all the best places you can visit there. They have remained good friends and I will contact them every time I return.
home feeling when you pull into Edinburgh Waverley or hit the tarmac at the airport. My social life is here - I love Bramble. The guys behind the bars here are my close friends, and I’ve grown up with them.
Do you ever get down time?
I just want to keep travelling and learning about other spirits. I’d love to visit Kentucky to learn about bourbon. Every year I want to give myself something new to try. I taught myself this year to like oysters, then I did an oyster and whisky pairing event. I sprinkled my oysters with an Islay malt the other day, they were delicious. I also find sensory work fascinating, and there is so much more to discover out there. I love where I am just now, and I’m just looking forward to more opportunities. I couldn’t give this lifestyle up – I love the hospitality industry.
I try and tag a few days holiday out of my trips. I have friends in Singapore that I can stay with when I’m there too. I love to run, it keeps me sane. One day I can be running beside Sydney Harbour, then the next month I’m running through Central Park. I also enjoy just chilling out on a quiet night and reading a book.
With so much travelling where is home?
Although I was born in London and I still visit when I can, Edinburgh is definitely home for me. Nothing beats that coming
What plans do you have in the pipeline?
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bar browser: Amicus Apple brought to you by:
A
micus Apple has just reopened after a re-vamp. The new look is great with more than a few surprises including a wooden interpretation of a tree trunk, with branches spiralling up across the ceiling. Situated on Frederick Street, this quirky bar provides the perfect modern social rendezvous whether you are looking to grab food, drinks or both. In fact the menu is one of the attractions here, with dishes including confit leg of duck and supreme of chicken. Another nice touch is the wooden lunch boxes on every table that contain all your cutlery and complimentary sweets. Another stand out factor is a glass cabinet filled with thousands of five pence pieces running underneath the full length of the bar. The plan is that the total amount will go to charity at the end of the year. Check out www.amicusapple.com for full details.
What to look out for
n Great selection of beers n The moss wall feature and
wooden tree
n The great service
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Amicus Apple 17 Frederick Street Edinburgh EH2 2EY tel 0131 226 6055 www.amicusapple.com
W B
arsnd
tla o c ofS
hisky
Out NOw!
Pick up a copy in a bar near you or view online at www.dramscotland.co.uk
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Mix it up with During the Fringe Festival, Drambuie caused a stir with their ‘Extraordinary Bar’ where visitors were able to enjoy a range of delicious Drambuie cocktails and experience a surreal photo experience that literally turned people’s world upside down. A special photo mechanic machine beside the bar allowed visitors to re-enact a scene from the recent Drambuie TV advert, which shows a bartender pouring the drink upside down. After posing for photo’s visitors could then choose from a range of cocktails including the inventive Dram-brew-ie, the ever-popular Drambuie & Ginger Beer and Elderflower Fizz to name a few. The top pick of the festival however was the Scottish White Sangria, which was the bestselling drink of the Fringe.
The bar itself was a truly extraordinary experience, designed with surreal art and zig zag graphics that adorned the walls inside and out. It certainly stood out from the crowd at Bristo Square. Drambuie really did think of everything to give visitors an extraordinary experience at this year’s festival, including creating an ‘Extraordinary Places’ mini-site, designed to give visitors to the Fringe the best recommendations for must see acts and attractions. It was very well received. To follow all Drambuie’s latest ‘Extraordinary’ news, log onto www.drambuie.com. Pictured, Lynn Kelly, Repertoire’s Editor joins Drambuie’s Marketing Manager, Vicki Wonders to experience the surreal photo experience for herself.
white sangria 25ml Drambuie, 12.5ml Triple Sec 100ml white wine, mixed fruit, lemonade Method: Build all ingredients in a large wine glass and top with lemonade. Garnish with mixed fruit. Enjoy DrambuiE rEsponsibly
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DRAMBUIE IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF THE DRAMBUIE LIQUEUR COMPANY LIMITED.
DISCOVER THE UNIQUE BLEND OF AGED SCOTCH WHISKY, SPICES AND HEATHER HONEY. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY
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COLUMN
I
Words: Penny Devlin
Diagnosis: lateness
was delighted to hear the other day it may be an illness responsible for me being late - and I can assure you I am infamous for being late. It’s not deliberate and I do try to keep to a schedule, but I don’t always succeed. Apparently a man in Forfar has been diagnosed with a ‘lateness illness’ by a doctor at Ninewells Hospital. If we had been anywhere near April 1st I would have put this down as an April Fool’s. But, no. Apparently Jim Dunbar has been late all his life, including funerals, dates and holidays. He is not the only one. I’ve been late for funerals. My mother says I will be late for my own (I hope). In fact, once I arrived at a funeral so late the doors of the church had closed and I sat in the car wondering what to do. I wasn’t too worried, as there was a bloke sitting in the car in front of me. However half an hour later, he left his car and walked up to the church, in full Highland gear, ready to pipe the coffin down to the graveyard for the burial. So I just tagged along and the best thing is, no-one was any the wiser because, when my friend came out of the church, she assumed I had just made a quick exit. The first thing she said was, “Wasn’t it a lovely service?” Of course, I agreed. But, I have also been late for weddings. A friend was getting married at Dunbar Castle and, as usual, I left it quite late for finding my way there. Again my bacon was saved when the bride was an hour late. If she hadn’t been, I would have missed it. In fact, talking of missing the ceremony, there was a wedding I was going to, and the bride and groom were borrowing my car for the short journey from the Church to the reception. The groom came the day before and cleaned it all and we bought ribbons. On the morning I called to 24
tell him I was on my way and on time. However, I didn’t have the invite on me, and for some reason assumed they were getting married at Luss Church as the reception was at Ross Priory. We got there, but, as you may have guessed it wasn’t Luss they were getting married – it was Drymen. We flew over the backroad to Drymen and got there just in time to see the bride and groom (Annabel and Sam) come out of the Church. But at least I was in time to lend them my car. I’ve never seen a best man so pleased to see me in his life – by the time we got there, they were attaching ribbons to his car. Just last year I was going to a dinner in Dundee and phoned the hotel it was taking place at to check the time dinner started. She told me 7.30pm. So I turned up for 7.30pm. For once I was on time. Unfortunately on this occasion, the receptionist had made a mistake, and the dinner had started at 6.30pm, so I only made it in time for dessert. I have run for planes, although I have never missed one, run for trains and buses too. And I’ve missed the ferry to Arran on more than one occasion. In fact the team that work with me are more than used to me applying my make-up in the car on the way to an event. And I can tell you putting contact lenses in when the car is moving is not easy. I’m also a master at getting ready really quickly. I can be in and out in 20 minutes, all glammed up and ready to party. So there are some benefits. But this year I have really tried to be on time, the only problem is that my friends are now so used to me being late, they too turn up late. Now the shoe is on the other foot as I’ve found myself nursing a drink on more than one occasion, waiting on some pals to save my blushes. C’est la vie
JEREMIAH WEED SESSIONS @ THE FAKTORY
The Faktory in Glasgow’s Byres Road was the venue for a recent Jeremiah Weed Session. It wasn’t just the Blues music, which included sets by Dirty Diamond and the Gunslinger, blues guitarist Daniel Meade and Elemental, that went down a treat but the whole event totally embraced the Jeremiah Weed feel - from the hay bales, to the Sunday roasts and of course plenty of Jeremiah Weed - served up not only by the bottle but in its signature mason jar glass too. The Kentucky style cider brew also went down well with performers and guests as you can see by the pictures. The night was rounded off by a residency blues jam, which was packed. If you like a bit of blues then make sure you get yourself down to Faktory on Sunday’s from 9pm.
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Get ready to visit your local bar or pub to celebrate the 2nd annual Bar and Pub Month which takes place
October 2013 www.barandpubmonth.com
This initiative aims to entice folk back into bars and pubs to celebrate all that’s great about Scotland’s licensed trade. The month long celebration will see pubs and bars throughout the country putting on live music, and other special events to ensure that there is plenty on offer during this key month.
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Time flies and soon Halloween will be here, will you trick or treat? To help you decide, here’s some Halloween inspired treats that are available on the high street.
Halloween
inspired treats Debenhams Abigail Ahern/Edition - Black Mutli Dinner Candle Holder £40.00
Accessorize Soft Rock Zip Top Clutch £37.00
House of Fraser Cufflinks - Paul Smith at House of Fraser £85.00
Marks & Spencer Cufflinks £6.00 Accessorize Teeny Skulls Bracelet £5.00
very.co.uk Fearne Cotton - Cat table lamp £59.00
very.co.uk Fearne Cotton - Darcy cat cushion £18.00 27
Dining Out with Birra Moretti Centotre 103 George Street Edinburgh EH2 3ES T: 0131 225 1550 www.centotre.com This award winning, family run restaurant has been causing a stir recently for all the right reasons. In July this year, the restaurant underwent a refurbishment with impressive results, then shortly after they received a 9/10 from Joanna Blythman of the Herald. This busy haunt opens from 7.30am every weekday until midnight, serving food made from the very best produce from Italy and around Scotland. At Centotre they believe the best ingredients allow recipes to be simple and straightforward. The result is honest food, simply prepared. You can expect everything here from pasta, made fresh on premise every day, antipasti, rib-eye steak, Scottish fish and pizza. The menu is fit to burst and there is something for everyone..they even make their own gluten free pasta. Jamie’s Italian The Assembly Rooms, 54 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2LR T: 0131 202 5452 www.jamieoliver.com Jamie’s Italian arrived in Edinburgh in July 2012, within the stunning setting of the Assembly Rooms on George Street. From day one, Jamie’s has proved a hit in the East with a mixture of traditional and modern Italian classics. They even offer a Jamie’s proper Italian feast for £15, which can be shared between 2 or 3 people and serves up a mix of antipasti, cured meats, cheese, risotto, chicken with herbs, and spaghetti and chips. This is the first Jamie’s Italian to have a food station in the middle of the restaurant where you can grab a pew and sit and watch your antipasti being prepared. Dishes to look out for include a Jamies Italian Burger £10.95, and a Jamie’s Favourite – Turkey Milanese £12.95. The Living Room 113-115 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JN T: 0131 226 0880 www.thelivingroom.co.uk If you are looking to dine in style then The Livingroom Edinburgh is the place to go. Here you can enjoy high quality fresh food in either the contemporary restaurant or piano bar. The à La Carte menu is available from midday until 10pm every day, and earlier in the evening you can enjoy the relaxing sound of the resident pianist while you wine and dine. Ideally located on George Street this stylish restaurant is perfect for those seeking lunch, dinner or delicious cocktails. The food is freshly prepared every day, and the menu caters for all tastes and requirements.
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Rock Lobster Unit 1/4, 43 Virginia Court, Merchant City Glasgow G1 1TN T: 0141 553 2326 www.rocklobsterbarandgrill.com This wee gem opened last year, tucked away in Virginia Court in the Merchant City. The emphasis here is definitely on the quality of the food, which pays tribute to the owner’s Italian roots and family history in running restaurants. In fact the restaurant’s name came from the owner’s father’s favourite dish – Rock Lobster. You can expect nothing less than great Italian cuisine including Bisteca Margarita £16.95 (Sirloin steak with sun blushed tomatoes and smoked mozzarella) and ravioli with lobster and crab meat, for £11.95. They offer a set lunch menu of burgers, pasta and fish and chips too, and they even cater for vegetarians. This is definitely a restaurant worth seeking out the next time you are in the area.
STRATA 45 Queen Street, Glasgow G1 3EH T: 0141 221 1888 www.strataqs.com Strata re-opened its doors in April 2012 following a refurbishment. It is now a popular haunt for lunch time shoppers and the after work crowd. Its menu is a mixture of pub grub and classic dishes all served in an imaginative fashion. From scallops, to burgers and pasta dishes too you will find something on the menu to suit your taste. They also mix up some great cocktails too. In fact they picked up “Best New Bar” at the DRAM awards in 2012, so this is definitely worth a look. Check out their full menu online at www.strataqs.com.
Vespbar 14 Drury Street Glasgow, G2 5AA T: 0141 204 0060 www.vespbar.com 1950s inspired Vespbar is situated on Drury Street and celebrates all things retro. Even the seating is the original article, taken from an ice cream parlour in Newcastle. This city centre bar is a great spot to grab a beer and a pizza. They even serve pizza by the metre here…yes a metre! If you are stopping by for lunch then they offer a set menu between 12-2.30pm for £6.50. Or check out the pre-theatre menu between 6-6.30pm priced £9.93 for two courses, or £12.95 for three. They also offer free live entertainment including comedy nights, and live music and free Wi-Fi.
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Lynn s Corner Cleo goes for Tequila I had the pleasure of meeting the lovely Cleo Rocos recently, who is better known for her TV stardom as Kenny Everett’s sidekick on his show during the 80’s. Nowadays she is talking tequila and has launched her own brand, AquaRiva. I caught up with her in Glasgow in between her hosting tasting sessions at various bars and the Good Spirits Company. I could have sat all day and listened to her stories - she is a great character. AquaRiva is a delicate, handcrafted tequila, using only the best hand selected eight-year-old blue agaves and volcanic spring water from the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. She promised me you won’t get a hangover because it is so pure. It certainly went down well with me and the rest of the bartenders pictured above.
Gigging Galore
You may have noticed a few more Facebook posts on the gig front from me recently. Yes, I’m gigging about town and in Prestwick and Ayr too, so I’ve no excuse to not be checking out what’s happening in the bars at all times of the day and night. I have a residency in Cocktail and Burger, and you will find us gigging in places like Vespbar and The Lismore too. Music really does bring people together and it’s great to see so many bars getting a good turn on week nights off the back of a sing song. If you fancy a nosey at what I’m up to, check out www.facebook.com/weareElemental..there are a few tracks on there too.
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Drambuie mixes it up…
If you happened to see me sprawled out on the floor at the Drambuie bar at the Edinburgh Fringe, I promise I was not intoxicated. I was however getting snapped upside down in their interactive photo booth, which explains the photo above. The shot is taken with two people lying on the floor, with the result giving the illusion you’re pouring a drink upside down. You can see we got into the fun of things and a lot of visitors did too. Posing made for thirsty work so I made sure I sampled some of the tasty cocktails before heading home. My favourite had to be the White Sangria which was absolutely delicious.
To the East
My Drambuie trip was one of many to the East last month and not just because of the Fringe. It seemed like there was a new bar opening every week probably because there was. Indigo Yard, rebranded as IY looks fantastic after a re-furb, as does Amicus Apple which has a new look too. I also popped in to see Twenty Princes Street and the Pomery Bar, which is a must see if you’re looking for the wow factor. Yes there certainly was a buzz in the East and it was great to catch up on some Edinburgh activity. I was also invited to catch Carole Kidd in Dirty Martini, but unfortunately I was gigging on the same night. If the reviews in the press were anything to go by though, Dirty Martini went down a storm during the festival. I’m sure Billy and the team will be thrilled.
Time is flying!
I can’t believe Brutti Compadres is one year old already! Unfortunately I couldn’t make it down to their birthday party, but I’m sure it was a fab night. If you haven’t checked out this wee gem in the Merchant City, Glasgow, then make sure you seek it out the next time you’re in the area. It sits in Virginia Court, just off Miller Street and, just like the owners there is never a dull moment in this bar.
H O M E G R O W N. A N D G R O W I N G.
IN JUST 18 MONTHS WE’VE BECOME S C O T L A N D ’ S F A S T E S T - G R O W I N G B E E R. Caledonia Best is a registered trademark of C&C Group. Source: CGA, MAT Volumes to 15/7/13
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