W B hisky
ars
d n a l t OF Sco 4th Edition – 2018
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Take a Nip inside Scotland’s top whisky bars
W
elcome
Welcome to our fourth edition of ‘Whisky Bars of Scotland’. This year we feature 52 bars from around the country from the Highlands to the Lowlands, the Islands too, and all of the bars featured have an excellent selection of whisky. Great whisky bars come in all shapes and sizes, some are contemporary and some are traditional, but what they all have in common is the desire to promote all things Scottish. This doesn’t just stop at whisky, most of these bars also offer great Scottish beer and gin and of course locally sourced products on their menus. Whether you are a connoisseur or a novice there will be plenty of whiskies that you like in our bars, and of course, do ask at the bar if you have any questions because staff are happy to share their knowledge. Obviously, this is not the definitive list of whisky bars in Scotland, because we are limited by space, but this is a super selection to get you started! As a Keeper of the Quaich, I’m tasked with promoting Scotch Whisky and there is nothing I like better than shouting about our great bars. A huge thank you to Edrington Beam-Suntory UK for supporting this book. 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 Editor: Susan Young Editorial: Jocelyn O'Keefe Production: Lorraine Gourlay Sales: Sylvia Forsyth, Jacqui Allan 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. © Media World Limited 2018.
C
ontents
Aberdeen & North East Casc 9 Cheers Cafe Bar & Tavern 10 The Dowans Hotel 11 The Mash Tun 12 The Station Hotel 13 Tannochbrae Stables Whisky Bar 14 Dundee, Perthshire, St Andrews Fort Hotel The Bar @ Gleneagles The Keys Bar
16 17 18
Edinburgh The Athletic Arms 20 The Black Cat 21 The Bow Bar 22 The Canny Man's 23 George IV Bar 24 The Fiddlers Arms 25 The Royal Mile Tavern 26 The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 27 Teuchters Landing 28 Whiski 29 Whiski Rooms 30
Glasgow & the West Artisan Restaurant Bag O' Nails Ben Nevis Bon Accord The Lismore The Old Toll Oran Mรณr The Pot Still The Piper Whisky Bar The Villa Hotel
32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 41 42
Other Areas Dornoch Castle Hotel Drift inn The George Hotel The Inn on Loch Lomond Muckrach Lodge Hotel Oak Tree Inn The Old mill The Taybridge Bar The Swan Inn
58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66
Highlands & Islands Ballygrant Inn 44 The Benleva Hotel 45 The Bowmore Hotel 46 Bar 1890 @ Creag Mhor Lodge 47 Fiddlers 48 Lochranza Hotel 50 Lochside Hotel 51 The Malt Room 52 Macgochans 53 Orkney Hotel 54 Pibroch Whisky Bar 55 The Torridon 56
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Whisky Map of Scotland
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S
slands
peyside
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ighlands
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slay
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owlands
ampbeltown
A N E
berdeen &
orth
1
ast
C
asc
7 Stirling Street Merchant Quarter Aberdeen AB11 6ND Tel: 01224 212373 www.cascbar.co.uk
CASC bar, the epicentre and beginning of CASC nation and the dawn of the bar evolution. Focusing on quality cigars, craft beer, scotch whisky and artisan coffee we aim to compound the senses and deliver a truly unique bar experience. Born out of a lack of choice and a general distaste for the norm, CASC is an original
concept bar in the heart of Aberdeen’s Merchant Quarter. We aim to open your eyes to only the very best and the most unusual. Our passion ensures that our team is knowledgeable and enthusiastic in every aspect of CASC, it’s products and ethos.
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C C B T heers
afe
10 Broad Street Fraserburgh AB43 9AH Tel: 01346 517620 www.cheersbarfraserburgh.com
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Whisky Bars of Scotland
ar &
avern
This fantastic venue, located in Fraserburgh, really is a must-visit. Winner of over 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, it really offers something for everyone. Choose from
almost 1000 different kinds of spirits, including more than 300 whiskies (malts, blended, bourbon, liqueur and world). There's over 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!
T D he
owans
Dowans Road Aberlour AB38 9LS Tel: 01340 871488 www.dowanshotel.com
H
otel
The Still is the name of the whisky snug at the Dowans Hotel. It is is home to more than 500 great whiskies and it offers a lovely environment to try them in. The whisky cabinet runs the length of The Still and it is filled with whisky! It really is a piece of art. It also allows you to try everything from a Speyside malt to a rare and interesting bottling. There are whiskies from all over Scotland and some international offerings too. The Still also offers the ideal location for private dining events whether that be
for a special occasion, an Afternoon Tea amongst friends or a bespoke whisky paired menu. Look out for regular tastings which are organised with industry experts throughout the year. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself holed up with a industry expert because whisky ambassadors often spend the night at the Dowans as it is a popular destination for those involved in the industry and visitors alike. Run by the gregarious Murray family it’s a great place to visit. Whisky Bars of Scotland
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T M T he
ash
8 Broomfield Square Aberlour AB38 9QP Tel: 01340 881 771 www.mashtun-aberlour.com
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un
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.
T S he
tation
51 New Street Rothes, Moray AB38 7BJ Tel: 01340 832200 stationhotelspeyside.com
H
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. The hotel has recently transformed their food into a more casual, laid-back style. With a new Head Chef and
a fabulous seasonal menu recently launched, it is now served in both Toots Bar and Pagodas Restaurant. The recently refurbished hotel, which has over 60 distilleries in a 50-mile radius, offers guests undiluted luxury. It is owned by 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
annochbrae
22 Fife Street, Dufftown Banffshire AB55 4AL T: 01340 820 541 www.tannochbrae.co.uk
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tables
W B hisky
ar
Tannochbrae Stables Whisky Bar and Lounge has been called one of Speyside’s hidden treasures, situated in Dufftown the whisky capital, it plays host to more than 350 single malt whiskies. Tannochbrae is a delightful Victorian villa, which has been sympathetically converted into a guest house, restaurant and of course the Stables Whisky bar. You can stay over, enjoy a lovely meal in the restaurant
which boasts a menu featuring the best of local produce, and then retire to the bar for a dram. The bar, apart from the original side panels from the Victorian Stable it is named after, is intimate and the welcome from this family owned business and the warmth of the log fire – make it a perfect setting to enjoy your favourite dram. The bar and restaurant is also open to non residents.
E
ast Coast
1
Dundee, Perthshire, St Andrews
F H ort
48 Fort Street, Broughty Ferry Dundee DD5 2AB Tel: 01382 737 999 www.fort-hotel.com
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otel The Fort Hotel in Broughty Ferry is so much more than ‘just’ a hotel, as their 2012 lifting of The Sunday Mail’s Pub of the Year proves. The Shackleton MacKinley Antartic and the Dalmore King Alexander III are amongst the curated whiskies stocked in the bar, which is decorated with burnt mahogany and bespoke gargoyles. Foodies can head straight
for on-site restaurant Borgotaro – also an award-winner – which takes its name from Borgo Val di Toro, a northern Italian town famed for its Parmesan cheese and wild Porcini mushrooms. The Fort even stage their own music festival, the Big Weekend, every May, with profits going to charity.
T B G he
Auchterarder Perthshire PH3 1NF Tel: 0800 389 3737 www.gleneagles.com
ar @
leneagles
Considered one of the very best hotels in the world, it’s perhaps no surprise that The Gleneagles Hotel is also one of Scotland's premier whisky destinations. Home to three championship golf courses, an award-winning spa, and an exhilarating array of outdoor activities, Gleneagles plays host to The Bar and The Blue Bar. The former serves over 120 malt whiskies in a opulent Jazz
Age-themed setting, whereas the latter combines whisky with high-quality cigars in a venue perfect for private events and corporate functions. Gleneagles is a true behemoth, with an 850-acre estate and its own train station, and famously hosted the 31st G8 Summit back in 2005 and the Ryder Cup in 2014. It was described as ‘a Riviera of the Highlands’ when first opened back in 1924.
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T K B he
eys
87 Market Street St Andrews KY16 9NX Tel: 01334 472414 www.keysbar.co.uk
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. 1
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E
dinburgh
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T A he
thletic
1-3 Angle Park Terrace Edinburgh EH11 2JX Tel: 0131 337 3822
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A
rms
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 six 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 – so check the website for dates.
T B C he
lack
168 Rose Street Edinburgh EH2 4BA Tel: 0131 225 3349 www.theblackcatbar.com
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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T B B he
ow
80 West Bow Victoria Street Edinburgh EH1 2HH Tel: 0131 226 7667 www.thebowbar.co.uk
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ar
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, but its friendly banter and no music policy means you hardly notice.
T C M he
anny
237 Morningside Road Edinburgh EH10 4QU Tel: 0131 447 1484 www.cannymans.co.uk
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 which was a nominated as one of the countries most stylish hotels at the 2018 Scottish Style Awards.
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G
eorge IV
B
54 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EJ 0131 225 6936 www.georgeivbar.com www.oldtownpubco.com www.facebook.com/georgeivbar
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Whisky Bars of Scotland
ar
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 sumptuous cocktails. The George IV also provides a diverse menu of classic ‘pub grub’, with ingredients sourced locally and an array of mouthwatering dishes. It's diverse team are sociable, engaging and eager to assist you in any way possible.
T F he
iddlers
9-11 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2HY 0131 229 0327 www.thefiddlersarms.com www.oldtownpubco.com www.facebook.com/TheFiddlersArmsEdinburgh
A
rms
Sitting at the end of the Grassmarket in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, The Fiddler’s Arms is principally a sit-down pub with an emphasis on spending the evening talking and drinking. It serves a modern twist on traditional Scottish food. 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 Fiddler’s Arms is open 12pm – 12am Monday – Wednesday, 10am – 1am Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 12am Sunday.
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T R M T he
oyal
127 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SG 0131 557 9681 www.theroyalmiletavern.com www.oldtownpubco.com www.facebook.com/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. We are 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. It's diverse team are sociable, engaging and eager to assist you in any way possible.
T S he
cotch
M W S
Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar 28 Queen Street Edinburgh EH2 1JX Tel: 0131 220 2044 www.smws.com #SMWS
alt
hisky
ociety
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is the world’s leading whisky club, but you don’t have to be a member to enjoy a visit to the Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar at 28 Queen Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. Kaleidoscope is on the ground floor of the Society’s Georgian townhouse, where you’ll find an ever-changing
menu of the Society’s exclusive single cask, single malt whiskies behind the bar, as well as a guest selection of unusual proprietary whiskies, local beers, wine, cocktails and other spirits. Upstairs, you’ll find the award-winning Dining Room Restaurant, named Scotland’s Restaurant of the Year for 2017 by the AA.
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T
euchters
1c Dock Place, Leith Edinbugh EH6 6LU Tel: 0131 554 7427 www.aroomin.co.uk
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L
anding
A Room in Leith
One of the great things about Teuchters is its location – tucked away up a cobbled lane in Leith, the pub also boasts a large pontoon and beer garden which are great for the summer months – you can even get free sun screen at the bar! The bar was formerly a waiting room for the steam ferry from Leith to Aberdeen. But these days people hang out there to enjoy its range of beer, whisky – more than 100 on offer, and Scottish gins. It also has a great wine range. The blackboard there
could be nominated for busiest black board in the city – highlighting, as it does, a great range of drinks. It’s a traditional bar, with lots of wood panelling and wee nooks and crannies. But the eating area is light and bright and it has a good menu to offering locally sourced produce. The bar menu includes the ever-popular mugs – haggis, neeps & tatties, Cullen Skink or haggis stovies – alongside pub staples like burgers, hot dogs and pies.
W
hiski
119 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1SG Tel: 0131 556 3095 www.whiskibar.co.uk
The award winning WHISKI is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s premiere 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
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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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lasgow & The West 1
A
rtisan
R
249/251 Main Street Wishaw ML2 7NE Tel: 01698 373893 www.artisan-restaurant.com
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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 apprise 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 in 2018 – it not only has great whisky it has staying power too.
B o' N ag
165 Dumbarton Road Partick, Glasgow G11 6AA Tel: 0141 465 9920 www.bag-o-nails.co.uk
ails
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
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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.
B A on
ccord
153 North Street Glasgow G3 7DA Tel: 0141 248 4427 www.bonaccordweb.co.uk
The Charing Cross area of Glasgow, sandwiched in between Sauchiehall Street and West End, plays host to some of the city's more intriguing nightlife spots, and the Bon Accord is one of the very best. Owned and ran by the McDonagh family, it’s a pub that prides itself on its award-winning choice of single malts and
also specialises in real ale. It originally opened in 1971, and over the years it has gained a great reputation for quality, but good value, pub meals too. The Bon Accord also runs its own beer festivals and hosts plenty of whisky tasting nights over the course of the year too.
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T L he
ismore
206 Dumbarton Road Glasgow G11 6UN Tel: 0141 576 0102 facebook.com/LismoreBar
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Winner of the Wee DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year trophy in 2014, 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 beer garden.
T OT he
ld
1 Paisley Road West Glasgow G51 1LF Tel: 0141 258 4830
oll The Old Toll Bar is a traditional Glasgow pub with one of the best looking gantries in the city. It offers a wide range of drinks from the Old Toll Lager, made for the Old Toll by Drygate brewery to classic cocktails made by professional bartenders. It also has a wide and varied range of craft beers and of course a large selection of malts and blended whisky’s from around Scotland and
the world, as well as, a few in the pubs special whisky safe. So why not head along to the The Old Toll Bar and join in on their regular quiz nights, or relax and enjoy its live entertainment. And for those vinyl fans there is a vinyl record player which is regularly in use playing soul, funk, old hip hop and reggae.
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NDK Photography
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O M ran
Top of Byres Road Glasgow G12 8QX Tel: 0141 357 6200 www.oran-mor.co.u @oranmorglasgow
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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 our 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 talking point artwork installations, there’s now even more reason to pay the bar a visit.
T PS he
ot
154 Hope Street Glasgow G2 2TH Tel: 0141 333 0980 www.thepotstill.co.uk
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 six 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 being the current SLTN Whisky Bar of the Year winning Nov 2017. They host regular whisky tastings throughout the year and also established the UK’s first Ladies-only Whisky Club
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T P W B he
57 Cochrane Street Glasgow G1 1HL Tel: 0141 552 1740 www.thepiperbar.com
iper
hisky
ar
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 V H he
illa
49-51 Burnbank Road Hamilton ML3 9AQ Tel: 01698 891777 www.thevillahotel.co.uk
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otel
The Villa Hotel believe there’s a whisky for everyone. A person who says they don’t like whisky just hasn’t discovered their whisky. The bar offers over 400 whiskies including 340 single malts from all whisky regions and this is increasing all the time. Housed in a period property with links to famous
explorer David Livingstone, this family business established in 2002 has a welcoming restaurant, bright conservatory and beer garden. We also hold whisky lively evenings, offering dinner and whisky tastings with like minded people, every three months, dates are advertised on our website and on Facebook.
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ighlands
& 1
slands
B
I
Ballygrant Isle of Islay PA45 7QR
At the heart of Ballygrant Inn & Restaurant is its award winning whisky bar – voted Whisky Bar of the Year at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2015. Known locally as Robolls Bar, it is popular with locals and tourists alike and is well stocked with a selection of over 400 whiskies from Islay, Scotland, and around the world. It also serves a wide selection of draught and bottled
allygrant
Tel: 01496 840 277 www.ballygrant-inn.com
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nn beers and ciders, wines and spirits. There is a pool table, darts boards, an extensive whisky library and woodburning stove. The Inn, which has seven guest rooms, enjoys a great reputation for good quality home-made food, made with fresh ingredients including Islay beef, lamb and venison and local scallops, crab, lobster and langoustine.
T B he
enleva
Kilmore Road, Drumnadrochit IV63 6UH, Tel: 01456 450 080 www.benleva.co.uk
H
otel
The Benleva Hotel, Loch Ness, is over 300 years old and is a former Church Manse (Minister’s residence). We are 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. We have a beautiful tree-lined driveway, including a 400 year old former hanging-tree (a Spanish Chestnut) and a beer garden. We aim to offer 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. We specialise in selling the finest cask conditioned ales from the many local Highland breweries including our very own ‘Hanging Tree Brewery’ and are proud to have the finest selection in the Loch Ness area. Our 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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T B he
owmore
Jamieson Street Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7HL Tel: 01496 810 416 www.bowmorehotel.co.uk
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H
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.
B
ar 1890 @
North Ballachulish PH33 6RY Inverness-shire T: 01855 821379 www.creagmhorlodge.com
C
reag Mhor Lodge
Creag Mhor Lodge guesthouse offers more than lovely rooms and stunning scenery. It has a well-stocked 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. Slรกinte Mhath Whisky Bars of Scotland
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F
iddlers
The Village Green, Drumnadrochit Loch Ness IV63 6TX Tel: 01456 450 678 www.fiddledrum.co.uk
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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.
L
ochranza
Lochranza Isle of Arran KA27 8HL Tel: 01770 830223 www.lochranzahotel.co.uk
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H
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.
L
ochside
20 Shore Street Bowmore Isle of Islay PA43 7LB Tel: 01496 810 244 www.lochsidehotel.co.uk
H
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.
Now under new management by Neil Morrison (Macgochans-Tobermory) and refurbished in January 2016 by renowned Scottish Designer Ronald MacColl, the Lochside has been transformed back into its glory days with an establishment to suit the service and warm welcome we provide.
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T M R he
34 Church Street Inverness IV11EH Tel: 01463 237897 #themaltroominverness
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alt
oom
The Malt Room is a family-owned specialist whisky bar in the heart of Inverness. We are proud to offer a truly diverse selection of world-renowned and locally produced whiskies, spirits and craft beers. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you through our extensive selection – whether you are new to the whisky world or consider yourself a connoisseur, we will
have something to tantalise your palate. The Malt Room boasts a growing collection of requested bottles that feature alongside our seasonal whisky cocktails, whisky flights and chocolate pairings. You will find us just off Church Street, tucked along the lane leading to the Victorian Market. Come share a dram or two!
M
acgochans
Ledaig, Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NR Tel: 01688 302 350 www.macgochans-tobermory.co.uk
Macgochans is one of the best pubs on the Isle of Mull, offering top live music, local food, lazy afternoons and great craic! The venue aims to showcase the best of island hospitality with four distinct areas for customers to enjoy – choose The Restaurant Bar if you like to wine and dine in style, or kick back beside a peat fire in
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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O
rkney
H
40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall Tel: 01856 873477 www.orkneyhotel.co.uk
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otel Join our world of whisky, food and hospitality. Offering over 800 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. Also, 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 our 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. Our 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.
P
ibroch
W B
Drumnadrochit Inverness-shire IV63 6TU Tel: 01456 450 342 www.lochness-hotel.com
hisky
ar
@ Loch Ness Lodge Hotel
The Pibroch Whisky Bar at the Loch Ness Lodge Hotel offers a celebration of the finest malt whiskies and Scottish folk music. Its specialised whisky masters can help you choose a nip or two of 'uisge beatha' from the bars wide selection. The beer too reflects the bar credentials with local brews including its Black Isle Nessie Ale onoffer. Guests can enjoy a bar supper in the Pibroch, or dine in the Library Garden Restaurant. The
chef uses carefully prepared Scottish produce including cheese from the local dairy, West Coast salmon and West Coast scallops and langoustines. The hotel itself has 50 well-appointed rooms. Dating back to 1740, the building has been beautifully restored and features exposed stone walls, tartan carpets and open peat fires.
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T T he
orridon
By Achnasheen, Wester Ross, Scotland IV22 2Ey Tel: 01445 791 242 www.thetorridon.com
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Whisky Bars of Scotland
We can honestly say that there are few places in the world that can beat the whisky bar at The Torridon for location and choice. Set in 58 acres of parkland on the shores of Loch Torridon at the foot of the mountains, this five star resort is where luxury and hospitality combine for an unforgettable experience. The resort comprises of an opulent hotel, fine dining restaurant 1887, Torridon Inn rooms, casual dining restaurant, private self-catering cottage The Boat House, and a Torridon Outdoors team dedicated to organising and
guiding you on activity adventures. The Torridon whisky bar stocks over 365 different whiskies, one for every day of the year, with an impressive selection of Scottish and international whisky including our personal favourites and some rare bottles for that special occasion or treat. Whether you are 1 looking for a tutored or an informal tasting at the bar, knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through a personalised whisky experience. We also stock over 120 different gins including our own Arcturus gin.
O A ther
1
reas
D
ornoch
Castle Street Dornoch IV25 3SD Tel: 01862 810 216
www.dornochcastlehotel.com
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C H astle
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 no1 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.
D I rift
nn
Lamlash, Isle of Arran KA27 8JN T: 01770 600608 www.driftinnarran.com
With a seaside beer garden overlooking Holy Isle and an open coal fire, The Drift Inn provides spectacular views to enjoy with a wee dram no matter what the weather. Arran whiskies are in abundance here, including some old and rare bottlings. Continuing in the spirit of celebrating local
products, the menu and specials board feature homemade pub favourites using the freshest local seafood, meat and produce. To accompany your meal, there’s a large selection of wines, cocktails, and beers including Scottish craft lagers, ales and ciders.
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T G he
eorge
Main Steet East Inveraray Argyll PA32 8TT Tel: 01499 302 111 www.thegeorgehotel.co.uk
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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 fourposters. It’s also a dog friendly environment and guests can stay over with their pooches too.
T I oL L he
nn n
Inverbeg Loch Lomond G83 8PD Tel: 01436 860 678 innonlochlomond.co.uk
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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M
L H
Dulnain Bridge Grantown on Spey Morayshire PH26 3LY
Muckrach Country House Hotel has been transformed from a shooting lodge into a luxury destination for tourists and stay-cationers alike. Its atmospheric bar is perfect place to enjoy a whisky with over 70 whiskies in stock. The walls also feature unique wall art, and comfortable chairs and lowlighting add to the mood. The bar also offers a fine range of gins and local beers, Champagne, wine and
uckrach
Tel: 01479 851227 www.muckrach.com
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odge
otel spirits are showcased on the lit glass shelves that stand proud as the main feature wall in the Bar. There is a Grazing menu to be enjoyed all day, with choices such as Calimari, Haggis Bonbons and Olives & Feta. The cocktail menu has some classics, Muckrach specials and a few mocktails to choose between. Located near Grantown-on-Spey in Cairngorm National Park the hotel stands in ten acres of serene grounds.
O T I ak
ree
Balmaha Loch Lomond G63 0JQ Tel: 01360 870 357 www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk
nn
The ideal base for a visit to Loch Lomond, The Oak Tree Inn is a bar and restaurant that also offers bed and breakfast. The Fraser family who own the Inn are very entrepreneurial. They also distil whisky – Balmaha Whisky, brew their own beer at the Balmaha Brewing Co, make their own ice-cream Loch Lomond icecream
and own a coffee company St Mocha. The lastest addition is Chocolate. Not content with keeping your taste buds tantalised they have also just opened the Balmaha Pontoon. So if you want a culinary experience or just fancy a nip of whisky it is certainly worth a visit.
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T O M he
ld
Mill Lane, Pitlochry Perthshire PH16 5BH Tel: 01796 474 020 www.theoldmillpitlochry.co.uk
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ill
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.
T T he
aybridge
129 Perth Rd, Dundee DD1 4JD Tel: 01382 643973 facebook.com/taybridge bardundee/
B
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 tv’s. 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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T S I he
wan
23 Polnoon Street Eaglesham G76 0BH Tel 01355 302619
www.facebook.com/ Theswaninneaglesham
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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 recently picked up the accolade Best Casual Dining pub in Scotland for the quality of its food and service. The pub
also offers a range of whisky, gins and cocktails that you wouldn't necessarily expect in a a village pub. 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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