Resting at the foot of the winding Kintyre Peninsula, Campbeltown was once famous as the whisky capital of the world. Flanked by Loch Campbel, this deceptively tiny township had as many as 34 distilleries strewn across its length and breadth. But, those are days of yore. The count may have dipped to just three distilleries in the recent years, but Campbeltown, with its rich heritage of making malt whisky is a dream destination for whisky lovers. Of all things that this petite town has to offer, distillery tours are right up the ally of whisky aficionados.
When in town, do not miss visiting the Springbank Distillery. Established in 1828, it remains the oldest family-run distillery in Campbeltown. As a seasoned docent walks you down the meandering halls wedged between the mossy stone walls of the distillery, discover the traditional process of floor malting and bottling whisky, all under one roof. Once done with Springbank, make some time for a short visit to the Glena Scotia Distillery. A far remove from the magnificence of grand Speyside distilleries, Glena Scotia oozes old world charm, and is perfect for a quiet whisky tasting session on the Scottish lowlands.
Apart from distillery tours, you might also like to pay a visit to the Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse for a bird’s eye view of the elfin Campbeltown. Book yourself a sea tour, and cruise on the waters of Loch Campbel, lazily sipping on a glass of Scotland’s finest malt while soaking in the beautiful natural landscape. Campbeltown may be one of the tiniest Scottish whisky-making settlements, but it has a lot to offer to the explorer in you.
The Tale of the White Stag of Arran
Once upon a time two brothers set out on a journey through alpine forests standing at the foothills of snow-capped mountains. Their journey had no destination, but they knew knowledge awaited them at the end of it. Not knowing what lay ahead, the brothers trudged on and on, a little more every day, braving the biting cold winds and the icy nights. Then morning came and through the dense foliage bright sunlight fell in sharp shards over the freshly fallen snow on the forest floor. The brothers saw hoof marks all over the snow, as if some heavenly being as light as air had trodden upon the fair snow, leaving faint traces behind. They followed the footprints and found the most divine creature any human has ever laid eyes on, gazing at them with soft, brown eyes. A royal stag, as white as the snow stood in front of them. And thus, their journey came to an end as the deific sentinel embarked them upon a journey of wisdom, power, and death.
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Some distillers were operating until the late 19th century in London, Liverpool, and Bristol. After that, the production of English single malt whisky ceased until 2013.
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Business Unplugged: What to, and How to Drink to Seal a Deal
“Whiskey is liquid sunshine”, rightly expressed the Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw. This popular liquor has made its way to bar networking. A few shots of whiskey while discussing business can dismiss inhibitions and help in initiating a conversation among two strangers. Breaking the ice will no longer seem impossible. More so, being equipped with a working knowledge of whiskies will give the client an impression that you are well-rounded.
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