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Bertie’s Whisky Bar The Fife Arms BRAEMAR
Words: Jenna Campbell Photography: © Sim Canetty-Clarke
N
othing at The Fife Arms in the village of
Resembling something akin to an alchemist’s
Braemar is to be expected and this is true
shop, the space has its own set of step-ladders
of its new addition – Bertie’s Whisky Bar
to reach the upper shelves along with trolleys
– a glamorous drinking den named in honour
for personalised service. The design scheme
of Queen Victoria’s eldest son, King Edward VII,
is characterised by a smouldering palette of
affectionately known as Bertie.
rich blood-red, with tactile materials such as
Inspired by the famous royal’s zest for
soft velvet, mohair and leather accompanying
life and notoriously spirted behaviour, the
vintage oak furniture. The walls and ceiling
bar, envisioned by Russell Sage Studio, is a
meanwhile have been embellished by scenic
celebration of both whisky and this hedonistic
painter Mark Sands to dramatic effect, in a style
heir, a gregarious character who was known for
that resembles antique leather.
playing fast and loose with the rules and had a love of opulence in all its forms.
IN A BITE Owner: Iwan and Manuela Wirth Operator: The Fife Arms Architecture: Moxon Architects Interior Design: Russell Sage Studio Graphic Design: Here Design F&B Consultant: Dave Broom Head Chef: Marcus Sherry General Manager: Mark Shedden Glassware: LSA International www.thefifearms.com
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Drinking experiences have been carefully crafted for the novice as much as the expert,
Billed as a whisky library, guests are invited
with 365 whiskies on offer, one for each day of
to immerse themselves in a labyrinth of spirit
the year, unusually arranged by flavour profile
bottles, neatly arranged like books on a shelf,
rather than by name, age, reputation or region.
backlit in a lustrous amber liquid that casts a
With Whisky Librarians on hand to guide guests
soft glow across the room. The look is enhanced
through this jewel box of the best whiskies in
by an antique-style chandelier and uplighters
the world, undiscovered regions or a ‘secret’
built-in to the cocktail tables to further
rare remaining bottle of a limited-edition
highlight the bar’s impressive selection of fine
collection, this imbibing experience is fitting
and rare drams, which come served in glassware
for a fun-loving monarch and those paying a
from brands such as LSA International.
visit to the Highland hotel.
