 Vin
du Pays de L'Ecosse
By Peter Cross
The 'Spirit of Scotland' is of course Whisky, named from the
Gaelic meaning 'Water of Life'. Though distilleries are to be
found the length and breadth of Scotland, there is no better place
to start the tasting trail than the Mull of Kintyre, just 125 miles
from Glasgow Airport.
The Whisky Trail starts at the Springbank Distillery in
Campbeltown where the Single Malt Scotch Whisky has been
manufactured since 1828. The complete production is carried out at
Springbank, from malting of barley to bottling of whisky.
Springbank is one of only three remaining family owned
distilleries left in Scotland and is presently run by the
great-grandson of the original founder.
The next leg should include the Islands of Islay and Jura, where there are no fewer than
seven distilleries - Caol Ila, Bunnahabhain, Bruichladdich,
Bowmore, Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig.
 The Isle of Islay malts stand out as a very distinctive group,
set apart from other Scottish Whiskies through the sheer
concentration of distilleries. From the very being of Islay comes
the Whiskies' distinctive characters, by way of the plentiful
natural resources of peat, water and of course the people. The
neighbouring Island of Jura whisky provides a separate personality
and taste all of its own. Malts have been produced on the Islands
for over two hundred years.
The Kintyre area overall is one of great and unspoilt beauty; the
coastline is stunning with views across crystal clear waters,
wonderful sunsets, woods and waterfalls, heatherclad hills and a
wealth of wild flowers and wildlife. Many sporting activities are
available nearby including golf at Machrihanish. There is fishing
on Loch Ciaran and shooting and stalking can be arranged.
Stay at the Balinakill Country House
Hotel in Clachan, near Tarbert. From here you are close to the ferry terminal
to the Islands of Islay and Jura. Balinakill is a lovely Mansion
House dating from the 1860's. It is set in parkland grounds and
enjoys peaceful seclusion amidst some of Scotland's finest scenery
- the House looks out between hills to the Sound of Jura and Islay
beyond. The House displays all the richness of the Victorian age
in its beautiful panelling, plasterwork, fireplaces, but
modern-day comforts are all there too.
The Hotel boasts an excellent wine list and a superior range of
whiskies. Balinakill has a reputation for superb cuisine using
only the freshest and best of Scottish produce. Local game and
seafood are a feature of the menus, also delicacies such as Gigha
cheese, Stornoway black pudding and heather-fed Harris mutton.
Discover the 'Spirit of Scotland' with your own journey on the
whisky trail. Come to the Balinakill Country House Hotel and enjoy
a Highland welcome, fine food and wine. You won't be disappointed.
Come soon and meet your hosts Susan and Angus McDiarmid.
- Slàinte
mhath Balinakill Country House Hotel,
Clachan, near Tarbert, Argyll
Telephone 01880 740 2206; Fax: 01880 740298;
e-mail: info@balinakill.com www.balinakill.com Peter Cross
lives in Glasgow. He delights in sharing finds whilst sailing
about the Western Isles of Scotland.
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