Whisky Bars of Scotland 2019

W B hisky

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d n a l t o OF Sc 5th Edition – 2019

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TAKE A NIP INSIDE SCOTLAND’S TOP WHISKY BARS

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elcome

Welcome to this, our fifth edition of ‘Whisky Bars of Scotland’. There may be some familiar bars here and some that are not so familiar., but every one is 1 worth visiting.

In total the publication showcases 51 bars from all over Scotland - some are large and some are small, but what they all have in common is an abundance of great whisky.

Whether you are in the Highlands or the Lowlands, the Islands or the West Coast, there is a good chance that there will be a great whisky bar nearby and this guide highlights some of the best places to try.

These days whisky is popular with all ages, and although Scotland is the home of Scotch whisky, our bars all feature a full range of whisk(e)y including popular Japanese and American brands too. Whisky can be enjoyed wherever and whoever you are with and with whatever mixer you favour - straight up, with water, ginger ale, soda or in a cocktail. The bar staff in our friendly bars will be happy to oblige.

This is not the definitive list of whisky bars in Scotland, because we are limited by space, but I am sure you will agree, there is plenty to get you started.

Once again a huge thank you to Edrington Beam-Suntory for supporting this publication.

The company has just moved its HQ to Glasgow which is why we have chosen a great picture of an iconic landscape for our cover.

Sláinte Susan Young Publisher

Published by: Media World Ltd Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, 1103 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8ND T: 0141 221 6965 E: news@mediaworldltd.com W: dramscotland.co.uk Publisher: Susan Young Editorial: Jason Caddy Commercial Head: Justin Wingate Production: Fiona Gauld Sales: Nicole Browning, Jamie Alexander, Laura Shearer Admin: Cheryl Cook 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. © Media World Limited 2019.

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Albanach, Edinburgh Angels Share, Edinburgh Ardshiel Hotel, Campbeltown Artisan Restaurant, Wishaw The Athletic Arms, Edinburgh Bag O’ Nails, Glasgow Ballygrant Inn, Islay The Benleva Hotel, Drumnadrochit Ben Nevis, Glasgow The Black Cat, Edinburgh The Bow Bar, Edinburgh The Bowmore Hotel, Islay The Canny Man’s, Edinburgh Cheers Cafe Bar & Tavern, Fraserburgh Creag Mhor Lodge, Inverness-shire Dornoch Castle Hotel, Dornoch Fiddlers, Drumnadrochit The Fiddlers Arms, Edinburgh

16 17 58 33 18 34 44 45 35 19 20 46 21 8 47 48 49 22

George IV Bar, Edinburgh 23 The George Hotel, Inveraray 59 Gladstone’s Whisky Bar, Pitlochry 60 The Highlander Inn, Craigellachie 61 The Inn on Loch Lomond, Loch Lomond 62 Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar, Edinburgh 24 Kays Bar, Edinburgh 25 The Keys Bar, St Andrews 63 The Lismore, Glasgow 36 Lochranza Hotel, Arran 50 Lochside Hotel, Islay 51 Macgochans, Mull 52 The Machrie Hotel, Islay 53 The Marcliffe, Aberdeen 10 The Mash Tun, Aberlour 9 Meldrum House, Aberdeenshire 11 The Old Mill, Pitlochry 64 Oran Mór, Glasgow 38

Orkney Hotel, Orkney The Piper Whisky Bar, Glasgow Poppies Hotel, Callandar Port Askaig Hotel, Islay Port Charlotte Hotel, Islay The Pot Still, Glasgow Queen’s Arms, Edinburgh The Royal Mile Tavern, Edinburgh The Swan Inn, Eaglesham The Station Hotel, Moray Taybridge Bar, Dundee The Station Hotel, Moray The Tippling House, Aberdeen Usquabae, Edinburgh Whiski, Edinburgh Whiski Rooms, Edinburgh

54 39 66 55 56 41 27 26 42 13 65 13 14 28 30 31

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WHISKY MAP OF SCOTLAND

ISLANDS

SPEYSIDE

HIGHLANDS

ISLAY LOWLANDS CAMPBELTOWN 6

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Aberdeen & North East

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heers

C B T afe

10 Broad Street Fraserburgh AB43 9AH

Tel: 01346 517620 www.cheersbarfraserburgh.com @CheersCafeBar @cheerscafebar cheerscafebartavern 8

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avern

This fantastic venue, located in Fraserburgh, really is a must-visit. It has won more than 25 national awards from a plethora of categories ranging from Best Spirits Bar, Beer Quality, Family Bar, Independent Bar, Beer Garden/Outside Area, Smoking Facility, Friendliest Bar and Sky Sports ‘Ultimate Venue’ amongst others, which proves it really offers something for everyone.

The bar offers almost 1000 different kinds of spirits, including more than 300 whiskies (malts, blended, bourbon, liqueur and world). It also boasts in excess of 250 gins and more than half are small batch hand crafted premium Scottish ones!

There are six rooms and meals available seven days a week. An overnight stay is highly recommended to enjoy all this venue has to offer!

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T M T he

ash

8 Broomfield Square Aberlour AB38 9QP

Tel: 01340 881 771 www.mashtun-aberlour.com MashTunTweeter mashtunedinburgh mashtunedinburgh

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At The Mash Tun you can enjoy locally sourced Scottish contemporary food and Scottish whisky, and stay in one of its five whisky themed rooms situated above the bar area.

The bar itself is home to a wide and varied selection of whiskies, both single malts and blends, predominately from Speyside but also incorporating distilleries from the rest of Scotland. Included in

this selection is the exclusive Glenfarclas Family Cask Collection. The Family Casks are a unique collection of 50 single cask whiskies, with one for each consecutive year from 1952 to 2001. There is no other known collection of rare and old whiskies that covers 50 consecutive years from the same distillery.

Staff at the The Mash Tun are also welcoming, well trained and happy to recommend whiskies to try.

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T M he

North Deeside Road Pitfodels Aberdeen AB15 9YA T: 01224 861 000 www.marcliffe.com @themarcliffe @themarcliffe themarcliffe 10

Whisky Bars of Scotland

arcliffe

H A S otel

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The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa is one of only two fivestar VisitScotland Hotels in Aberdeen and is set in 11 acres of wooded grounds in the western suburb of Pitfodels, about three miles from the city centre.

With 34 rooms and seven suites, this privately owned hotel is designed as a restful, elegant refuge for both the business and leisure traveller.

The Conservatory Restaurant offers seasonal

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Scottish produce, accompanied by a wine list of over 300 wines.

The Drawing Room Bar and Lounge is stocked with more than 100 malts and a scintillating selection of Cognacs, Armagnacs and rare European Brandies.

The Drawing Room Bar also has a baby grand piano as its centrepiece and has a warming open log fire.

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M

eldrum

Oldmeldrum Aberdeenshire Scotland AB51 0AE Tel: 01651 872294 www.meldrumhouse.com @themeldrum @meldrumhouse meldrumhouse

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ouse

Meldrum House Country Hotel boasts a very unique whisky bar. Known as the Cave Bar, it dates back to 1236 and is part of the original manor house’s rich history.

The Cave Bar was recently crowned Global Hotel Bar of the Year by a Whisky magazine, beating bars in Shanghai, New Orleans and Sydney. Boasting over 120 malts and blends, you’ll also find an Old and Rare cabinet as you walk in, showcasing some of the rarest whiskies available with a few from distilleries that closed many years ago.

The hotel has an exclusive Whisky Club in the Cave Bar which houses 44 lockers. Members can share a dram or two with guests from their own named locker and are invited on special whisky tasting events and distillery tours.

In February, the hotel launched 1236, a new casual eating experience in the Cave Bar which is open from 9am and serves Breakfast, Brunch, lunch and dinner. It’s informal and social small plate dining inspired by ingredients that are local to the hotel.

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T S he

tation

51 New Street Rothes, Moray AB38 7BJ Tel: 01340 832200 www.stationhotelspeyside.com @StationSpeyside stationspeyside thestationhotelspeyside

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otel

Located in the beating heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country, whisky bars do not come more authentic than the Spirit Safe at The Station Hotel in Rothes.

Customers to the boutique whisky escape on Speyside will find a range of over 500 malts – and an actual spirit safe which houses some of the hotel’s most collectable drams.

Last year, the hotel created a more casual, laid-back style to their food as well as a lunch and Sunday Brunch menu which is served in both Toots Bar and Pagodas Restaurant. The luxury boutique hotel was extensively

refurbished in 2016. Boasting over 60 distilleries within a 50-mile radius, the nearest ones include Glenrothes, Glen Grant and the new Macallan Distillery.

The hotel has lots of copper nods to the whisky industry including a copper tap to add to your dram in Toots Bar and a copper still in the car park. Owned by Richard and Heather Forsyth, who also own Forsyths of Rothes, the company responsible for creating many of the copper stills fundamental to the production of Scotland’s national drink.

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T T he

ippling

4 Belmont Street Aberdeen AB10 1JE www.thetipplinghouse.com @Tippling_House @thetipplinghouse TheTipplingHouse

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The Tippling House is a subterranean tavern in the cultural district of Aberdeen. With a list that focuses on indie bottling and new releases, the seasonalchanging menu highlights heritage and up-and-coming distilleries, along with some world whiskies that follow current trends. It hosts weekly drop-in tastings on a Saturday, along with a monthly whisky club that aims

to break down brand perceptions with a blind tasting, followed by a bar takeover serving up highballs and boilermakers.

The bar’s collection boasts some prestigious rarities (Pappy Van Winkle and Port Ellen, to name but two) and the bar’s occasional break-even tastings offer some of these rarities for a fraction of their true value.

Edinburgh

T A he

lbanach

197 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PE www.belhavenpubs.co.uk/pubs/ midlothian/albanach @albanach.edinburgh AlbanachEdinburgh

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The Albanach is the self-proclaimed ‘sophisticated city centre celebration of Scotland’. It’s certainly one of the coolest-looking bars in the Capital.

Inside, you won’t be able to miss the Albanach’s wall of over 300 whiskies behind the long central bar, with a dedicated menu to make agonising over which one to try just that little bit easier.

And this is a bar that takes whisky very seriously with its own whisky flights, whereby customers

estaurant

can select three or four malts themed by age or location.

Real ales, including the occasional guest, sit next to a range of draught lagers too. This Edinburgh favourite is the epitome of Scottish hospitality, with an equal emphasis on the food side of things with a large restaurant in the rear, serving Scottish favourites such as locally sourced haggis, cullen skink, fresh battered haddock and steaks.

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ngels

7-11 Hope Street Edinburgh EH2 4EL

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Tel: 0131 247 7000 www.angelssharehotel.com @AngelsShareEdin @angelsshareedin angelsharehotel

hare Situated in Edinburgh’s west end, Angels Share is a thriving hotel, bar and restaurant. The name itself refers to the small amount of alcohol that evaporates out of whisky barrels during fermentation.

You’ll find a nod towards its whisky roots throughout the cocktail menu, and there is an extended list

available at the bar as well as a fantastic range of whisky flights to choose from. Nestle yourself into the stylish and opulent surroundings, where the walls are adorned with great Scottish Icons and experience a quality service to match. A la Carte dining is available daily along with live music every weekend.

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T A he

thletic

1-3 Angle Park Terrace Edinburgh EH11 2JX Tel: 0131 337 3822 www.athleticarms.com @TheAthleticArms @athleticarms DiggersEdinburgh

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The Athletic Arms is a local institution and is better known locally as the Diggers because of its proximity to two Edinburgh cemeteries – gravediggers would quench their thirst here back in the day.

The pub was traditionally known for great ale, but as most people now realise, pubs that take pride in their beer also take pride in offering great whisky and the Diggers certainly does that. The current owner has had the pub for just over seven years and has grown

the whisky collection to some 250 single malts, which are served in the traditional 35ml measure.

The pub dates back to 1897 and retains traditional features including a marble bar top, wooden floors and eight polished tall founts (pronounced ‘fonts’) – one of only a handful of pubs in the Capital who still use them.

It also runs a whisky festival each year.

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lack

168 Rose Street Edinburgh EH2 4BA

Tel: 0131 225 3349 www.theblackcatbar.com blackcatbar theblackcatbaredinburgh

at

The Black Cat is the only independent public house on Rose Street and prides itself on providing a relaxed place for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a hand-picked selection of Scotland’s finest whiskies.

Owner Chris Miles is a whisky enthusiast with over 180 malts in his collection and counting! He has passed this enthusiasm and knowledge to his staff who are happy to find you the perfect dram. They stock a large variety

of local beers and cask ales, and have all Scottish beers on draught. A small menu of Scottish fayre is served daily from 11.30am and coffee from 11am.

The venue has live Scottish folk music session from 9.30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday and from 4pm Sundays. Don’t miss the pub quiz on Tuesday 8pm.

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ow

80 West Bow Victoria Street Edinburgh EH1 2HH

Tel: 0131 226 7667 www.thebowbar.co.uk @bow_bar @the_bow_bar_edinburgh bowbaredinburgh 20

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The Bow Bar is a typical traditional pub with a mahogany gantry loaded with more than 400 whiskies. There is always a core of the popular and familiar, but their philosophy is experimental. Single Casks, various finishes, new releases, requests and recommendations, whims and fancies. As well as the many distillery brands, independent bottlings include Adelphi, Berry Bros, Cadenhead’s, Chieftain’s, Creative Whisky Co, Duncan Taylor and Gordon

& MacPhail, to name but a few. The staff are enthusiastic about the whole subject and are happy to help you select a whisky to suit your palate. As well as whisky, the pub also offers real ales served from a row of gleaming brass tall founts and a great selection of bottled beers too. Food, however, is limited to lunchtime pies, and its friendly banter means you hardly notice the no music policy.

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T C M he

anny

237 Morningside Road Edinburgh EH10 4QU Tel: 0131 447 1484 www.cannymans.co.uk cannymans thecannymans

an’s

The Canny Man’s public house was established in 1871 by James Kerr and is a unique family-run business. The bar and restaurant is now in the hands of the 5th generation of the Kerr family and is widely recognised as an Edinburgh institution.

The main bar gantry holds over 250 different single malt Scotch whiskies alongside international varieties

and blends. All of these are served by 35ml measures in a Glencairn glass with Uisge Sources whisky waters.

The restaurant focuses on fresh Scottish produce with a particular emphasis on seafood.

Those visiting The Canny Man’s have no need to rush as they have 12 boutique hotel rooms on site at The Lane Hotel.

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T F he

iddlers

9-11 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2HY 0131 229 0327 www.thefiddlersarms.com www.oldtownpubco.com TheFiddlersArmsEdinburgh

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Sitting at the end of the Grassmarket in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, The Fiddler’s Arms is principally a sit-down pub where customers like to spend the evening talking and drinking.

Live music is one of it’s major attractions, with musicians performing every weekend from 9pm.

With a house whisky and a “malt of the moment”, the drinks and music combine to ensure a relaxed

environment which is never too loud to enjoy a conversation with friends.

The bar also serves traditional Scottish food with a twist.

The Fiddler’s Arms is open 12pm – 12am Monday – Wednesday, 10am – 1am Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 12am Sunday.

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eorge

54 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EJ

IV B

0131 225 6936 www.georgeivbar.com www.oldtownpubco.com georgeivbar

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Located on the historical George IV Bridge in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The George IV is a traditional Scottish public house bursting with charm and character.

Open every day from 11am – 1am serving a wide and varied selection of drinks including over 100 different whiskies, a selection of assorted craft ales and tasty cocktails.

The George IV also provides a diverse menu of classic ‘pub grub’, with ingredients sourced locally and an array of mouthwatering dishes.

Its diverse team are sociable, engaging and eager to assist you in any way possible.

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aleidoscope

28 Queen Street Edinburgh EH2 1JX Tel: 0131 220 2044 www.smws.com @SMWSUK @smws_uk thesmwsuk 24

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hisky

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Access to the spectacular treasure trove of whiskies housed within this elegant Georgian building in Edinburgh’s New Town used to be strictly members only, but today its Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar and everpopular Dining Room Restaurant are open to all.

Members’ Exclusive Lounges on the top floors offer breathtaking views over the Firth of Forth and members can also enjoy a special tasting table with

SMWS ambassadors and a private snug area.

The bars boast over 200 rare single malts from across Scotland and a range of finest craft beers, artisanal spirits and wines.

The Dining Room Restaurant has moved up to the first floor as part of a recent refurbishment and been expanded to include features such as a Charles Heidsieck Champagne table.

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K B ay’s

39 Jamaica Street Edinburgh EH3 6HF T: 0131 225 1858 www.kaysbar.co.uk fraserkaysbar kays.bar.9

ar Kay’s Bar is a great wee Victorian bar with an amazing collection of single malt whiskies. It’s located right in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town and offers more than 50 whiskies from all over Scotland and Ireland.

It is a well preserved Victorian bar that still boasts some of its original fittings, including some internal signage, whisky barrels, wood panelling, cast iron pillars, and a safe.

Kay’s Bar is pretty small so it can get really packed, hardly surprising when you consider it also offers some great cask ales and the usual popular brands too, as well as traditional Scottish food. It is a music free bar, but during rugby matches, the TV has pride of place and it is considered one of the best places to watch rugby in Edinburgh.

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oyal

127 High Street Edinburgh, EH1 1SG

0131 557 9681 www.theroyalmiletavern.com www.oldtownpubco.com @RoyalMileTavern RoyalMileTavernEdinburgh 26

Whisky Bars of Scotland

ile

avern

Located on the historical Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old town, The tavern is a traditional Scottish public house bursting with charm and character.

It is open every day from 11am – 1am, serving an

enormous selection of drinks including over 100 different whiskies and a selection of ever-changing craft ales.

Its diverse team are sociable, engaging and eager to assist you in any way possible.

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ueens

49 Frederick Street Edinburgh EH2 1EP 0131 225 1045 www.queensarmsedinburgh.com @QueensArmsEdinb @queensarmspub TheQueensArmsEdinburgh

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Laying below the cobbles of Frederick Street, The Queens Arms prides itself on being a pub for locals and visitors to Edinburgh alike. The Queens Arms is everything a comfortable, quality pub should be, steeped in herniate with a passion for quality.

From home cooked seasonal produced from great Scottish suppliers cooked and served with care, to handpicked cask ales from Scotland’s top independent brewers, a cracking range of malt whiskies, wines, bottled beers and draught beers, teamed with a house cocktail list – it has got it all covered.

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squabae

2-4 Hope Street Edinburgh EH2 4DB www.usquabae.co.uk @UsquabaeBar @usquabaebar @usquabaebar

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Whisky Bars of Scotland

Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End is Scotland’s Wee Dram Whisky Bar of the Year, Usquabae Whisky Bar and Larder.

It takes inspiration from Robert Burns’ ‘Tam O’ Shanter’, who believed that a meeting with the devil will only be survived if the person in question were

fortified with Usquabae. This inspiration sees a collection of over 400 specially selected Single Malts and expertly trained staff in Scotland’s national tipple.

Usquabae also offers a fine selection of local produce and craft beers, spirits and wine, Usquabae is a muststop destination for all those curious about whisky.

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hiski

119 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1SG Tel: 0131 556 3095 www.whiskibar.co.uk @Whiskibar whiskibar whiskibar

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Whisky Bars of Scotland

The award-winning WHISKI is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s premier whisky bars. The owners and staff have a genuine passion for whisky. As a result the bar boasts some 270 malt whiskies and this total does not include all of its blended whiskies and whisky liqueur.

The bar has rare, vintage, and cask strengths, and all the major and lesser known brands including many from distilleries no longer in operation. WHISKI specialises in all things Scottish and is a beautiful

traditional bar with an extensive range of Scottish craft beers and cider.

The all-day dining bar and restaurant serves the best of fresh Scottish food using the best local produce.

It is also a live music venue and holds many events at the bar, including whisky tastings and food and whisky events. See its website for more details.

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W R hiski

4-7 N Bank Street Edinburgh EH1 2LP

Tel: 0131 225 7224 www.whiskirooms.co.uk @whiskirooms @whiskirooms whiskirooms

ooms Award-winning Whiski Rooms (BII whisky bar of the Year 2014) is situated on the Mound and is quite a unique venue. Not only does it have a bar and all-day dining bistro/restaurant, but it also boasts a specialist whisky shop and tasting rooms.

This is the ideal venue for whisky enthusiasts as the bar operates a ‘try before you buy’ policy whereby any whisky you try in the bar can then be

bought from the adjoining shop. You can arrange to take part in a dedicated tasting session run by experts, or treat yourself to a great whisky cocktail. It is also an Ardbeg Embassy – the only one in Scotland. But it’s not just whisky this bar excels at; it also offers a wide range of beers, lagers, and premium spirits as well as very tasty fresh Scottish food.

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Glasgow & The West

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rtisan

249/251 Main Street Wishaw ML2 7NE

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Tel: 01698 373893 www.artisan-restaurant.com artisan.wishaw

estaurant Artisan in Wishaw has one of the biggest selection of whiskies in the country. Therefore staff expertise is key when it comes to selecting your whisky.

Every employee is a trained Whisky Ambassador, allowing you to make an educated decision when you appraise the jaw-dropping selection of over 3500 bottles of which 2400 different whiskies

opened for customers to purchase by the dram – a treasure trove so inviting it’s lured visitors from all over the world. The cosy bar is located alongside a restaurant which is also very popular, with the menu revised regularly.

Artisan celebrates its 10th anniversary last year proving that it not only has great whisky but staying power too.

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B ON ag

’

165 Dumbarton Road Partick, Glasgow G11 6AA Tel: 0141 465 9920 www.bag-o-nails.co.uk @BagONailsGLAS @bagonailsglas BagoNailsGLAS 34

Whisky Bars of Scotland

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Bag O’Nails is a lively bar which has a reputation as a good live music venue too. Its fridges are packed with the latest craft beer trends and hand-picked bottles from the most important producing regions in the world. There is also an ever evolving spirit selection which includes an impressive whisky list which hosts well-known favourites and a selection from abroad

too. The bar also has food on offer from Bar Bites to Pizza and of course Burgers. There’s music on five nights a week and it shows plenty of sport. This is one west end bar that caters for everyone. So pop into Bag O’Nails and find out what makes this bar so popular.

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B N en

1147 Argyle Street Glasgow G3 8TB

Tel: 0141 576 5204 www.thebennevis.co.uk thebennevisbar

evis The Ben Nevis allows you to feel like you’ve scaled a Munro without stepping foot out of Glasgow’s trendy Finnieston district. Eye-catching design features abound in a venue that’s a hit with everyone from tourists to dog owners, including a fault line running across the floor as a visual representation of the point where the Lowlands and Highlands meet. Slanted

shelves and rocks mounted on the wall add to the unique character, and visitors can enjoy live Celtic music as they choose between almost 300 different whiskies.

The bar tends to be standing room only at weekends but the atmosphere and choice means that it is worth making your way to this bar.

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T L he

ismore

206 Dumbarton Road Glasgow G11 6UN Tel: 0141 576 0102 @TheLismoreBar @lismorebar LismoreBAR 36

Whisky Bars of Scotland

A previous winner of the Wee DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year trophy, The Lismore has an excellent range of malts (300-plus and counting), and also does a very reasonable Malt of the Month.

It’s one of the best known pubs in the area and has been sympathetically restored with exposed stone walls and quirky features including stained glass windows depicting scenes from the

Highland Clearances.

Urinals in the gents’ loos feature the men who orchestrated the Clearances – with customers encouraged to acknowledge them as they see fit.

The main part of the bar runs almost the length of the building and always has a buzz about it, while the lounge is perfect for a relaxed drink and there is also a suntrap of an outside area.

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O M ran

Top of Byres Road Glasgow G12 8QX

Tel: 0141 357 6200 www.oran-mor.co.uk @oranmorglasgow @oranmorglasgow oranmorglasgow 38

Whisky Bars of Scotland

ór The Whisky Bar is one of the west end’s most popular destinations, boasting over 280 malts. You’re always guaranteed a warm Scottish welcome in this cultural meeting place. If you fancy a bite to eat the John Muir Room À La Carte Menu is available in the bar. Relax in its informal setting, ideal for breakfast, a bite of lunch or dinner.

Soak up the vibrant evening atmosphere and meet people from all walks of life. The bar is open daily from 9am, serving alcohol from 11am (Sundays from 12.30pm). With the recent addition of even more talking point artwork installations, there’s now even more reason to pay the bar a visit.

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iper

57 Cochrane Street Glasgow G1 1HL

Tel: 0141 552 1740 www.thepiperbar.com @ThePiperbar @thepiperwhiskybar ThePiperPubGlasgow

hisky

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The Piper Whisky bar is a friendly, traditional style pub in the heart of the city centre, on George Square.

It is ideally located for tourists and locals alike. This bar is well known for the great atmosphere and live entertainment.

It is a Scottish whisky bar with a range of malts from

every Scottish distillery and blends to suit all tastes, as well as an excellent selection of beers, wines, gin and bourbon. Fabulous food served daily until 9pm, with traditional favourites and Scottish tapas for those who want to try something more unique and cultural.

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T P S he

154 Hope Street Glasgow G2 2TH

Tel: 0141 333 0980 www.thepotstill.co.uk @potstillglasgow @thepotstill ThePotStillGlasgow

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till

This famous whisky pub is THE place for malt whisky in Glasgow. The iconic bar, which was built in 1835, has more than 750 whiskies on offer as well as cracking cask ales, proper home-made pies and friendly staff who pride themselves on their ability to find every customer their perfect dram – no wonder people come here from all over the world.

The Murphy family – including dad Brian, his son Frank and daughter Geraldine – have owned the

bar for seven years and won both the Wee DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year Award and Scottish Field magazine’s Whisky Bar of the Year award in 2016, as well as Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky Scotland Whisky Bar of the Year 2019, and AA Pub of the Year Scotland 2018.

They host regular whisky tastings throughout the year and also established the UK’s first Ladies-only Whisky Club.

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T S I he

wan

23 Polnoon Street Eaglesham G76 0BH Tel 01355 302619 @theswaneaglesham theswaneaglesham

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nn

Tam Cowan compared The Swan Inn in Eaglesham to the legendary Boston bar Cheers – “where everybody knows your name”! Indeed the bar has a local of regular customers but it also attracts people from much further afield due to its friendly atmosphere and good food.

It is award-winning and has picked up the accolade Sunday Mail Pub of the Year, and the award for Best Country Pub last year! The pub offers a range

of whisky, gins and cocktails that you wouldn’t necessarily expect in a a village pub and its service is first class too.

The Swan Inn hosts regular Quiz night and also puts on special evenings with entertainment, as well as offering special dining occasions such as Champagne and Lobster nights. Best to check out its Facebook page to see what’s on.

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Highlands & Islands

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allygrant

Ballygrant Isle of Islay PA45 7QR Tel: 01496 840 277 www.ballygrant-inn.com

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Ballygrant Inn & Restaurant is situated in the north of Islay near Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila and the newly opened Ardnahoe distilleries. Run by Father and Son team David and Ewan Graham, the Inn has 8 en-suite bedrooms. At the heart of the Inn is its multi award winning Whisky Bar with a selection of over 800 Whiskies. The whisky selection boasts the largest range of Islay whiskies available anywhere alongside

a selection of specially selected whiskies from the Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside and Campbeltown. The restaurant offers excellent home-made food using fresh local Islay Beef, Lamb and Venison and locally caught Scallops and Shellfish. Whisky tastings and Whisky and food pairings are held throughout the year.

Ballygrant Inn is a whisky lover’s paradise!

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enleva

Kilmore Road, Drumnadrochit IV63 6UH, Tel: 01456 450 080 www.benleva.co.uk @BenlevaHotel @benleva_hotel Benleva

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otel

The Benleva Hotel, Loch Ness, is over 300 years old and is a former Church Manse (Minister’s residence). It is situated just ½ mile from the centre of Drumnadrochit village, just a short walk from the shores of Loch Ness in approximately an acre of grounds. It has a beautiful tree-lined driveway, including a 400 year old former hanging-tree (a Spanish Chestnut) and a beer garden.

It offers the finest fresh food together with a fine

selection of wines, Scottish real ales and malt whiskies all served in a homely, warm and welcoming atmosphere. It specialised in selling the finest cask conditioned ales from the many local Highland breweries its very own ‘Hanging Tree Brewery’. It has arguably the finest selection in the Loch Ness area.

Its many CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) awards, including Scottish Runner-Up 2012 and 2013, show the consistent quality of our ales.

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owmore

Jamieson Street Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7HL Tel: 01496 810 416 www.bowmorehotel.co.uk Bowmore-Hotel

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otel

Bowmore Hotel is situated in the island’s ‘capital’, Bowmore, and is close to all the village amenities as well as the world famous Bowmore Distillery.

A family-run venue, it has 11 en-suite bedrooms, some of which were recently updated with bespoke furnishings and luxury wet rooms.

The hotel bar, known locally as Lucci’s, stocks the biggest collection Islay’s malt whiskies on the island while the hotel’s chefs make excellent use of

the island’s local produce, including beef, lamb and seafood.

Food is served in the beautifully appointed dining room, while a decking area at the back of the hotel has views over Loch Indaal and barbeques are held on Sundays throughout spring, summer and autumn.

The hotel offers Free Wi-Fi access and is open all year round.

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reag

North Ballachulish PH33 6RY Inverness-shire

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T: 01855 821379 www.creagmhorlodge.com

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odge

Creag Mhor Lodge guesthouse offers more than lovely rooms and stunning scenery. It has a wellstocked whisky bar offering an extensive collection of malt whiskies. The selection will rival any whisky bar and covers all of the Scottish whisky regions. The bar stocks old and rare whiskies from distilleries that have closed, these rare whiskies have been matured over several years. The bar specializes in Signatory Vintage whisky from many of the popular distilleries, all of

which are cask strength.

The owners strive to stock whisky that is a little special and not readily available. The bar sells their whiskies as 35ml measure which is 40% more volume than most commercial bars.

The Lodge bar is open to residents only and is situated on the main West Highlands tourist route.

You will find a very warm welcome here in our lounge along with a wood burning stove.

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ornoch

Castle Street Dornoch IV25 3SD Tel: 01862 810 216 www.dornochcastlehotel.com @dornochcastle @dornochcastlehotel DornochCastle 48

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astle

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otel

An hour north of Inverness, this converted castle and tower is a spectacular wedding venue and a haven for whisky lovers. With over 280 whiskies in the world famous whisky bar and the hotel and bar currently ranked no.1 Whisky Hotel in the world on whiskybase, a visit to this unique whisky bar is a special experience for novices and seasoned whisky drinkers alike. The bar also stocks and sells gin from

Dornoch Distillery which is run by Philip & Simon Thompson and often sells limited edition bottlings chosen by the brothers. The hotel has 22 rooms ranging from garden standard rooms to the deluxe ‘Old Courtroom’, and its garden restaurant serves evening meals using the finest of local produce and has been awarded an AA rosette for the past 12 years.

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iddlers

The Village Green, Drumnadrochit Loch Ness IV63 6TX Tel: 01456 450 678 www.fiddledrum.co.uk @fiddledrum FiddersRestaurant

Fiddler’s Malt Whisky Bar is renowned amongst whisky enthusiasts because owner Jon Beach is truly passionate about whisky and over the years has amassed a fine collection.

Its famous Whisky Library includes nearly all the named Scottish single malts available from Aberfeldy to Wolfburn. While its top shelf is home to many older expressions, award-winning drams, Inverness malts, rare whiskies, and even some international

whiskies.

One of Fiddler’s Whisky Bar’s specialties is Closed Distilleries with at least a dozen different expressions open at any one time. Independent bottlers are also represented to show the amazing breadth and diversity of Scottish whisky.

As well as the well stocked bar, food is also an important part of Fiddler’s offering, and it has accommodation too.

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ochranza

Lochranza Isle of Arran KA27 8HL Tel: 01770 830223 www.lochranzahotel.co.uk Lochranza-Hotel Country-Inn

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otel

A real institution in one of Scotland’s foremost beauty spots, the Lochranza Hotel on the Isle of Arran offers visitors a choice of over 500 malts. This impressive selection includes their own malt, Eason Biorach, and the menu is underpinned by fresh local produce. You can enjoy snacks, lunches and suppers in the Garden

Bar which overlooks the loch.

Visitors can glimpse red deer and golden eagles on nature walks of the area, play golf on an 18-hole course nearby, or simply admire Castle Lochranza’s reflection in the glassy waters of the loch.If you choose to stay over all of the bedrooms are en-suite.

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ochside

20 Shore Street Isle of Islay PA43 7LB Tel: 01496 810 244 www.lochsidehotel.co.uk @LochsideHotel @lochsidehotel lochsidehotel

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otel

The Lochside is an Islay institution: a privately owned hotel with a bustling restaurant and a lounge that has been recognised as one of the great whisky bars of the world. With 12 newly refurbished ensuite bedrooms available all year, the lochside really is the heart of Bowmore.

The bar in the whisky lounge is home to an extensive collection of fine and rare Islay whiskies, where you can enjoy one of the 300 whiskies in a relaxed atmosphere, or in the more traditional pub setting of Duffie’s bar, or over dinner in the restaurant overlooking the stunning Loch Indaal.

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acgochans

Macgochans is one of the best pubs on the Isle of Mull, offering top live music, local food, lazy afternoons and great craic!

Tel: 01688 302 350 The venue aims to showcase the best of island www.macgochans-tobermory.co.uk hospitality with four distinct areas for customers to enjoy – choose The Restaurant Bar if you like to wine @Macgochans and dine in style, or kick back beside a peat fire in Macgochans-Tobermory

Ledaig, Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NR

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Bar-beag if you prefer something a little more casual.

It showcases a fine range of around 100 Scottish whiskies and local cask ales too.

The Function Suite caters for up to 200 (standing), while last but definitely not least is the Beer Garden – which gets the sun all day long and is the perfect spot to enjoy this peaceful island setting. Bliss!

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T M he

18 – Restaurant & Bar The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links Port Ellen Isle of Islay PA42 7AN www.themachrie.com @themachrielinks themachrieislay TheMachrie

achrie

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An 18th century converted farmhouse, The Machrie boasts 47 stylish rooms, Facilities include a 30-seat cinema; function room 3 lounges and PureGray Spa & Gym. Dining options include our restaurant and bar, 18, located on the first floor of the hotel with outdoor terrace, offering panoramic views of the

olf

inks

ocean and golf course. Whether you’re just looking to explore this stunning island, home to some of the world’s finest whiskies, or taking on the challenge of our championship links golf course, The Machrie will be the perfect place to start your stay.

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rkney

40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall KW15 1DN Tel: 01856 873477 www.orkneyhotel.co.uk @theornkeyhotel orkneyhotel

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otel Join a world of whisky, food and hospitality. Offering over 1,000 whiskies including an extensive local selection from Highland Park and Scapa Distilleries, whiskies from around the world including Japan, Taiwan, India, Netherlands, Sweden, France, Australia, and New Zealand, the Orkney Hotel also has selections from lost and closed Scottish distilleries such as Brora, Port Ellen, Convalmore and Glenesk. Try a rare selection in a whisky flight or your favourite individual dram.

Indulge yourself with a five-course whisky tasting dinner.

Choose from over 150 gins from throughout Scotland

and the UK or taste an imported offering from the United States, Scandinavia and Germany.

Relax in its child-friendly back bar and enjoy lunch, a bar supper or a freshly brewed coffee. Dating back to 1670, the hotel offers every modern convenience, whilst retaining its original charm. Its 30 elegant en-suite rooms are traditionally decorated and equipped with Freeview TV and WiFi. Ideally situated in the town centre, we are minutes away from the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, Earl’s and Bishop’s Palaces and local shopping.

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P A ort

Port Askaig Isle of Islay PA46 7RD T: 01496 840 245 www.portaskaig.co.uk Hotel123

skaig

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otel

The Port Bar at the Port Askaig Hotel is the oldest continually licensed premises on Islay (dating from the 16th Century) and carries an extensive selection of Islay malts in addition to a display of old and rare bottles.

It also has a Snug Bar which is ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a cosy evening with friends.

Family-owned and run for more than 60 years, the hotel, with 11 bedrooms to choose from, offers a warm welcome and staff are always happy to talk

about the selection of whiskies on offer.

Its Starboard Restaurant offers bistro style dining with seafood a speciality.

A full meal service is available in both bars with snacks and freshly brewed teas and coffees available outwith main meal times.

The hotel is situated on the harbourside where the mainland and Jura ferries dock and it has fabulous sea views from Bistro Beer Garden and many of the bedrooms.

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harlotte

Port Charlotte Isle of Islay PA48 7TU Tel: 01496 850 360 www.portcharlottehotel.co.uk The-Port-Charlotte-Hotel

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otel

The hotel is located in the beautiful conservation village of Port Charlotte and enjoys a beachside setting with stunning views over Loch Indaal.

This award-winning venue has 10 luxury rooms, a bar, restaurant and conservatory. Guests can relax in front of the open fires in its residents’ lounge and bar and enjoy the convivial company over a whisky or two.

The bar plays host to nearly 150 Islay malts including

rare ones and local ales too. A few years ago it won the accolade Malt Whisky Bar of the Year from The Good Pub Guide while its restaurant has been awarded a Trip Advisor accolade – ‘Certificate of Excellence.’

The Port Charlotte Hotel may be small but it is very definitely welcoming.

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Other Areas

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rdshiel

Kilkerran Road Campbeltown PA28 6JL Tel: 01586 552133 www.ardshiel.co.uk @Arshiel ardshielhotel ArdshielHotel

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otel

A hotel built nearly 150 years for a whisky baron seems a fine choice for whisky connoisseurs, and in the case of The Ardshiel, that’s a very safe assumption to make. Proprietors Flora Grant and Marion MacKinnon lay on a smorgasbord of Scotch whisky options – including over 500 malts – in their Usquebaugh Bar and Lounge. Guests also have the

option of popping to the nearby Springbank, Glengyle or Glen Scotia distilleries, making the long trip down the Kintyre Peninsula well worth while. On-site facilities include The Garden Restaurant, which serves Kintyre lamb and locally caught scallops, and the Arran Suite, a function room with a capacity of 65 that frequently hosts whisky events.

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eorge

Main Steet East Inveraray Argyll PA32 8TT

Tel: 01499 302 111 www.thegeorgehotel.co.uk TheGeorgeHotelInveraray

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otel

Originally a private house when first constructed in 1770, and later partially converted into two churches, The George Hotel’s rich history is encapsulated in its décor, which features original flagstoned floors plus log and peat fires.

It has been in the Clark family for eight generations and under the families stewardship it has gained a reputation far and wide for great hospitality. Their

emphasis is very much on local produce such as West Highland beef and Loch Fyne salmon while the drinks menu features real ales, wines, cocktails and more than 100 malt whiskies. Look out for its ‘Sunday Snug’ offers which are popular indeed.

The George houses 17 lovely bedrooms, some with four-posters. It’s also a dog friendly environment and guests can stay over with their pooches too.

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ladstone’s

75-79 Atholl road Pitlochry PH16 5BN T: 01796 472000 www.fishershotelpitlochry.com @fishershotelpitlochry fishershotelpitlochry

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ar

Fisher’s Hotel in Pitlochry dates back to 1830, one of the reasons for its longevity is the quality of its offering.

There are two bars, Gladestone’s Whisky Bar and the Coach House.

Both have been recently refurbished to a high standard.

A large selection of Malts and Whisky from around

the world is available in both bars, our selection can be as large as 100 in the high season. A great fresh food offer is available in both bars. Gladestones is the more relaxing bar, but if you like live sport and live bands the Coach house is your choice.

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T H he

ighlander

The Highlander Inn 10 Victoria St, Craigellachie, Aberlour AB38 9SR Tel: 01340 881446 www.whiskyinn.com whiskyinn

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nn

The Highlander Inn reputedly has the largest selection of Japanese whisky in Scotland, if not one of the biggest outside of south east Asia. We’re talking around 30 bottles that dominate the back bar of this cosy wee basement space, and all the staff are trained by owner Tatsuya Minagawa to guide you through them all. If

you’re on the Speyside whisky trail, this place is a mustsee for you to rest your weary feet and enjoy a dram in a relaxed and friendly environment. There’s also a terrace that commands beautiful views over the village and oodles of other whisky-related stuff in the vicinity for you to get your teeth into.

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T I OL L he

nn

Inverbeg Loch Lomond G83 8PD Tel: 01436 860 678 innonlochlomond.co.uk @innonlochlomond @innonlochlomond innonlochlomond.com 62

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och

omond

The Inn on Loch Lomond is a stylish, contemporary Inn, offering modern accommodation, a fantastic restaurant and bar with unique furnishings in leather and cow hide and, of course, a cosy roaring fire.

Located at Inverbeg on the banks of Loch Lomond, the hotels Mr C’s Fish & Whisky Bar is a novel concept celebrating two things Scotland is famous

for: fresh fish and fantastic whisky. The bar itself has an organic, rustic feel and provides the perfect perch to enjoy one or two malts and offers a selection of whiskies from the top seven whisky regions.

The weekends bring a variety of local folk music entertainment that provide the perfect atmosphere for a great evening out.

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eys

87 Market Street St Andrews KY16 9NX Tel: 01334 472414 www.keysbar.co.uk @bar_keys @thekeysbarfife thekeysbar

ar

Whether you are paying a visit to St Andrews for a game of golf or simply visiting the sights of this lovely historic town, you would be well advised to make a stop for a dram at The Keys Bar right in the centre of town in Market Street.

Crowned Sunday Mail Pub of the Year in 2014, it is one of the only independent bars operating in the town.

The Keys’ success can be attributed to owner Claire and her team’s personable, hospitable nature; nothing is too much trouble, and a hearty welcome is guaranteed to all who step through the door.

With over 300 malt whiskies available including many rarities, and over 120 gins, The Keys Bar is truly one of Scotland’s hidden gems.

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ld

Mill Lane, Pitlochry Perthshire PH16 5BH

Tel: 01796 474 020 www.theoldmillpitlochry.co.uk @TheOldMillInn @theoldmillpitlochry oldmillinn 64

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The Old Mill Inn, won Country Pub of the Year at the recent Scottish Bar and Pub Awards. This bustling bar/restaurant and hotel at the very heart of Pitlochry also has a wide selection of whiskies and even a whisky sauce that’s served with various different dishes on the excellent food menu. This converted corn mill is run by a local family and specialises in live

music which draw people from miles around. It also has a great outdoor area which is perfect for taking in the Scottish sun. A five-minute walk from Pitlochry Station, the four-star Old Mill is dog-friendly. Look out for the original water wheel adjacent to the outside seating area – great for instagram shots.

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aybridge

129 Perth Rd, Dundee DD1 4JD

Tel: 01382 643973 taybridgebardundee

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ar

The Taybridge Bar is situated in Dundee’s bustling west end and is certainly the hub of the community, in fact it won “Community Pub of the Year” three years in a row as voted for by the local BBN authority.

Inside the old establishment you will find a cheerful welcome in traditional surroundings.

Whether you are looking for whiskies (100+ in stock), Gins ,local craft beers , including Eden Mills

latest releases or any other drinks you won’t be disappointed.

For the sports fans we have both Sky & BT Sports packages showing on four large screen TVs. The Manager Hugh Gray and his highly trained team look forward to giving you a warm welcome the next time you are in the area.

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oppies

Leny Road, Callander FK17 8AL T: 01877 330 329 www.poppieshotel.com @PoppiesHotel PoppiesCallandar

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H &R otel

estaurant

Poppies, a small charming hotel, set on the outskirts of the popular town of Callander in the heart of the beautiful Trossachs, and in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.

It is here in the cosy Camerons Bar, the lovely hand crafted oak gantry, you will find an excellent display and range of Scotch malt whisky.

There are of course along with the local drams, including Deanston, Glengoyne, Tullibardine and Glenturret, you will discover a fine and interesting selection of Special bottlings, cask strength, Directors editions and a few rare bottles.

There is always a Malt of the Month….or two!...and we

regularly feature “special flight tastings” for the enthusiast!

Cameron’s Bar has also a small changing list of wines, personally chosen by the owner and a great selection of Scottish Gins.

We are only open from 3 till 7pm, but often a little later in the summer months!

There are so many historic landmarks and castles to visit in the area, and the lovers of outdoor will be spoilt for choice.

Poppies has nine individually styled en-suite rooms fusing traditional and contemporary touches.

There is a garden seating area and free parking on site.

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