The Fife Arms Braemar

Bertie’s Whisky Bar The Fife Arms

BRAEMAR

Words: Jenna Campbell Photography: © Sim Canetty-Clarke

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

Nothing at The Fife Arms in the village of Braemar is to be expected and this is true of its new addition – Bertie’s Whisky Bar – a glamorous drinking den named in honour of Queen Victoria’s eldest son, King Edward VII, affectionately known as Bertie.

Inspired by the famous royal’s zest for life and notoriously spirted behaviour, the bar, envisioned by Russell Sage Studio, is a celebration of both whisky and this hedonistic heir, a gregarious character who was known for playing fast and loose with the rules and had a love of opulence in all its forms.

Billed as a whisky library, guests are invited to immerse themselves in a labyrinth of spirit bottles, neatly arranged like books on a shelf, backlit in a lustrous amber liquid that casts a soft glow across the room. The look is enhanced by an antique-style chandelier and uplighters built-in to the cocktail tables to further highlight the bar’s impressive selection of fine and rare drams, which come served in glassware from brands such as LSA International.

Resembling something akin to an alchemist’s shop, the space has its own set of step-ladders to reach the upper shelves along with trolleys for personalised service. The design scheme is characterised by a smouldering palette of rich blood-red, with tactile materials such as soft velvet, mohair and leather accompanying vintage oak furniture. The walls and ceiling meanwhile have been embellished by scenic painter Mark Sands to dramatic effect, in a style that resembles antique leather.

Drinking experiences have been carefully crafted for the novice as much as the expert, with 365 whiskies on offer, one for each day of the year, unusually arranged by flavour profile rather than by name, age, reputation or region. With Whisky Librarians on hand to guide guests through this jewel box of the best whiskies in the world, undiscovered regions or a ‘secret’ rare remaining bottle of a limited-edition collection, this imbibing experience is fitting for a fun-loving monarch and those paying a visit to the Highland hotel.