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The Orkney Distillery

Orkney Distilling Limited, The Orkney Distillery, Ayre Road, Kirkwall, KW15 1QX

Welcome, adventurer! Your epic Orkney saga has begun. We invite you to enter our distillery and visitor centre in Kirkwall, to toast the gods and learn the secrets behind our legendary Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin. If you seek the true essence of Orkney, we urge you to join us!

Reflecting the boldness of our Norse ancestors, the clarity of our seas and the purity of our air, Kirkjuvagr is a hand-crafted Orkney gin for the modern, discerning gin enthusiast.

Kirkjuvagr means “Church Bay” in Old Norse. Back when Orkney was emerging as a seat of power in the Viking Empire, the Norsemen would sail their longships into Kirkjuvagr, which over the centuries grew into our islands’ capital, Kirkwall. In name, Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin reflects the rich history of our islands and the boldness of those ancient seafarers. In character though, it’s utterly contemporary and has been crafted with the modern, discerning gin enthusiast in mind. It is, quite simply, unmistakably Orcadian.

When creating Kirkjuvagr, on the shores of Kirkwall Bay, we thought it fitting to seek out a connection to our Viking ancestors that ran deeper than just our name. We then discovered a local legend that spoke of a variety of Angelica brought to the islands by Norsemen centuries ago, which can still be found growing wild today. Naturally, this very Angelica is now one of our defining ingredients, complementing a distinctive blend of local botanicals , including Ramanas Rose, Burnet Rose and Borage. Uniquely, we’ve also used traditional Orkney bere barley in our recipe.

Our quest is to earn Kirkjuvagr mythical status with gin drinkers around the world. We handcraft our gin in small batches using traditional copper stills in a process defined by passion, commitment and attention to detail. After all, the Vikings didn’t mess around. Nor do we.

And the symbol on our bottle top? That’s a Vegvisir, or Viking compass. Its power helped the Norsemen find their way. Now we hope it’ll lead you north on your own epic voyage to discover the home of Kirkjuvagr.

Orkney Distillery Tours

Situated on Kirkwall’s harbour front, the Orkney Distillery is the ideal attraction for gin enthusiasts looking for a quality visitor experience in the heart of Orkney’s main town. We are open 7 days a week and you can check live availability and book online through our website. And it’s not just for adults. Children can enjoy the tours too (without alcohol of course!)

• Learn about the distilling process including our key botanicals
• See production area to winess where the magic happens
• Sample our gins whilst overlooking Kirkwall’s harbour
• Relax with a coffee or gin and purchase bottles and unique merchandise to take away

Pets are welcome at both our Oot The Back bar and the front bar at the Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre.

Find out about access arrangements at the Orkney Distillery .

Featured Products

Kirkjuvagr origin.

Fresh like a sea breeze with a sweetness reminiscent of sherbet, lemons and pine, this gin starts warm and sweet with a hint of spice, followed by a floral, smooth and long finish. Kirkjuvagr Orkney gin reflects the boldness of our Norse ancestors and has

Kirkjuvagr Beyla - Honey & Raspberry Old Tom

In Norse mythology, Beyla was the goddess of bees, with a strong connection to the earth. At Orkney Distilling, we share her bond with the land, growing our botanicals here in the islands, where the influence of the Norse gods can still be felt. We’ve

Kirkjuvagr Yuletide

Full of mouth-watering winter spice, fruit and floral notes inspired by Orcadian Christmas traditions and the Orkney archipelago’s Viking heritage. It’s a wonderfully festive Christmas gin that any gin fan will love. Yuletide was initially launched exclu

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Orkney Distilling Limited The Orkney Distillery Ayre Road Kirkwall KW15 1QX

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• Gin Distilleries

Isle of Orkney Gin Distilleries

Hidden past the northern coast of Scotland lies the beautiful and untamed Orkney Islands , a destination that may pass over many people’s to-do plans when visiting Scotland. That being said, the beautiful Orkney Islands should be on the top of your to-do list for a couple of reasons: historical museums and sites, a distinct culture of food, and Orkney gin distilleries!

A few excellent distilleries in this wild part of Scotland will excite any discerning gin enthusiast, as well as premium whisky and rum distilleries too. The gin you can taste in Orkney has an exceptional quality you can’t find anywhere else in Scotland – it may be the mythical lands that birth the rich botanicals or the experienced and dedicated distillers that make each bottle of gin a treat to drink.

Sold on the idea and have your ferry ticket in hand? Great, because here are the top Orkney gin distilleries you must add to your to-do list while you’re here.

In This Post

Orkney Gin Company

The charm of the Orkney Isles is undeniable. When you arrive on the Isle, you’re immersed in intricate history, unique folklore, and incredibly stunning scenery – the perfect base for gin-tasting experiences. The Orkney Gin Company is one of the first stops that gin lovers should take the time to enjoy while on the Isles, and there’s plenty to choose from!

This distillery’s gin is inspired by many of the enchanting aspects of the Isle, from its Norse Ancestors in the Akvavit, the Scottish Navy in Old Tom, and even a local legend or two in the Aatta. Each bottle of gin is a testament to the seafaring heritage established on these islands centuries ago, all for you to savour when you visit the Orkney Gin Company or find their Scottish island gin in stores throughout the Isle.

You can reach the Orkeny Gin Company on the Isle of Burray, south of the main town of Kirkwall . If you catch a ferry from Gills Bay, you can save yourself a drive, but starting from Kirkwall is also an excellent way to see the Isle’s natural beauty.

The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre

Right in the heart of Kirkwall, the Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre is the premier place to come and taste the best gin the Orkeny Isles offer. From the moment you enter the door, your epic Orkney saga will begin, where you can learn the intricate and detailed process that goes into the legendary Kirkjuvagr Orkney gin made here.

If it needed to be clarified that Orkney has roots from ancient seafarers, that’ll undoubtedly be the case when you arrive at the Orkney Distillery. Kirkjuvagr Orkney gin reflects the history of the island seafarers who called the region their home – and the taste when you have a sip is Orcadian.

There are several experiences you can find at the Orkney Distillery that you should seriously consider, including the gin tasting and the kirkjuvagr gin-making experience. These allow you to taste the essence of the island, with botanical flavours like juniper, nutmeg, and Scottish raspberries and learn the Old Norse history of distilling. Another secret to this distillery and visitor centre is the traditional Orkney bere barley, orange peel, and burnet rose they use in their recipes.

The Orkney Distillery is a rite of passage for any gin enthusiast who comes to Orkney’s capital in search of its rich history and divine tastes.

Deerness Distillery

The Deerness Distillery is on the far east side of Mainland Orkney Isle and is known for using defining ingredients of the island to distil incredible gin drinks. The Deerness Distillery is the perfect place to enjoy hand-crafted Orkney gin using traditional Orkney ingredients and botanicals.

Their famed sea glass gin, scuffed gin, vara gin, and more are excellent for a gin-tasting experience or a night out while exploring the Isle. Deerness is one of many Orkney distilleries that are proficient at instilling local botanicals’ dense and beautiful flavours into their gins.

If all this sounds enticing, don’t hesitate to visit the Deerness Distillery during their opening hours (10:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday). You can visit their gift shop, which has several souvenirs to take home you, including jewellery, art, homeware, and their incredible gin and liqueur. If you catch one of the friendly distillers, feel free to ask any questions about their Orkney gin distillery process – distillery tours are also available to book.

The Deerness Distillery is a relatively new distillery compared to the others we’ve mentioned but is nonetheless filled with heart, soul, and excellent gin.

Other Gin Distilleries in Scotland

• Aberdeen Gin Distilleries
• Edinburgh Gin Distilleries
• Glasgow Gin Distilleries
• Highland Gin Distilleries
• Isle of Islay Gin Distilleries
• Perthshire Gin Distilleries
• Shetland Gin Distilleries

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The Orkney Distillery

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THE ORKNEY DISTILLERY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin

Opened in 2018, this distillery and visitor centre on the waterfront is a new showcase for this tasty Orkney spirit. Tours run for an hour and include an audiovisual display and a tasting; it's wise to prebook online. There's also a cafe-bar here. At the time of research, it was about to roll out an in-depth day-long tour that would let you create your own gin.

Get In Touch

01856-875338

https://​www​.orkneydistilling​.com​/

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The Orkney Distillery - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• 2023 Edition Gin

Handcrafted with Passion

Be part of something extraordinary. 

Our Orcadian multi-award winning spirits and liqueurs are truly unique, carefully crafted from start to finish at our distillery.

Our 8 Year Journey

From our self-built distillery in the beautiful Orkney Islands, established in 2016 as a spirits distillery to produce gin, vodka, whisky and liqueurs. We produce our truly unique products for your pleasure and sensory experience.

We are proud that our handcrafted ethos flows throughout our entire process; from the original eye catching lino cut labels and creating our recipes to the distilling, bottling and labelling of our artisan drinks.

Our Reviews

We are so proud of the awards we have received since we launched our signature gin ‘Sea Glass Gin’ and the most Northerly vodka ‘Into The Wild Vodka’ in the Spring of 2017.  Why not experience them for yourself!

Local and Ethical

Situated off the north coast of Scotland the Orkney Islands with their rugged cliffs sit dramatically in the (occasionally!) stormy Atlantic Sea.

Our labels are designed to reflect the rich variety of sea and landscapes of the Islands and that which surrounds our distillery itself.

From our small, family-run business we hope to share with you our Orcadian artisan drinks, so you can experience a taste of Orkney yourself.

Explore Orkney at www.orkney.com

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• Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin

Distilled in Scotland

First produced.

  The Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin Story

Orkney Distilling was conceived when craft gin began to take off in Scotland and the company founded in early 2016. Founders Stephen and Aly wanted to put Orkney on the map – among the best craft distilleries in Scotland. They launched their first gin, Kirkjuvagr, in August 2016. Arkh-Angell, the Storm-Strength Edition followed in 2017 and this year, they released Harpa – the summer edition

In July 2018, The Orkney Distillery opened its doors to visitors with a brand new visitor centre, coffee and gin bar and a retail space. So, whether it is by taking a tour of the distillery and seeing the working processes, coming in for one of their bespoke coffee blends or, indeed, trying one of the bespoke Kirkjuvagr cocktails – visitors can expect a unique taste and experience that is, quite simply, unmistakably Orcadian.

According to their head distiller, Louis, i t’s the location that makes Kirkjuvagr gin unique and special. Each bottle they release has a story that underpins its name and character – these are inspired by Orkney’s Norse heritage. In case you were wondering, the name Kirkjuvagr, is the old Norse pronunciation of Kirkwall – their home – which translates to ‘Church on the Bay’.

They are enormously proud of their Norse heritage and the profound impact it has on how they make their gin. Everyone in their team and all those who have been involved are local to Orkney– and they feel immensely lucky to have a team full of ambassadors for Kirkjuvagr and Orkney as a whole.

  Key Botanicals

Archangelica

Ramanas Rose

Burnet Rose

Orkney bere barley

  Tasting Notes

On the nose: Fresh sea breeze with a sweetness reminiscent of sherbet, lemons and pine.

On the Palate & Finish: Starts warm and sweet with a hint of spice, followed by a floral, smooth and long finish.

A Perfect Serve: Serve Kirkjuvagr with ice, your favourite tonic and garnish with fresh Orange peel or dehydrated orange.

  Expressions

• Arkh-Angell

  Key Personnel

• Stephen and Aly Kemp – Founders and Directors
• Louis Wright – Head of production
• Kerry Cooper – Distiller and Visitor Centre Manager

  Website

  the scottish gin society verdict.

Truly inspired by its surroundings and Norse heritage, Kirkjuvagr is packed full of interesting, local botanicals. On the nose it is light with juniper and citrus notes, which is quite surprising given the floral element. The team have created a quite remarkable gin, where the botanicals sing together rather than fighting for attention.

The team at Orkney Distilling suggest drinking Kirkjuvagr with a premium tonic of your choice and a sliver of orange peel, and we are not going to argue with that. The orange enhances and complements the Orcadian botanicals, making this a refreshing and moreish G&T.

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Kirkjuvagar Orkney Gin

Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin was established in 2017 by co-founders and husband and wife Stephen and Aly Kemp. Kirkjuvagar means “Church Bay” in Old Norse; during the reign of the Vikings, the Norsemen would sail their longships into Kirkjuvagar, which provided a natural shelter and protection from the wild, unforgiving seas. Eventually, over the centuries, it grew to be what is today known as Kirkwall.

The couple, both from Orkney, have proud Orcadian roots on the island, with Aly’s dad operating one of the many fishing vessels out of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands. Stephen, too, has family ties stretching back centuries, and it’s these ties to the past and Stephen and Aly’s eye on the future inspired them to create a distillery and the Kirkjuvagar Orkney Gin brand.

Initially, Stephen and Aly worked with the team at Strathearn Distillery in Perthshire on recipe development and production. Stephen and Aly researched the different native botanicals on the islands, with the couple working closely with the University of the Highland and Islands’ Agronomy Institute. During this research phase, a unique strain of Angelica on the island was discovered. Research and evidence suggest this remarkable botanical was originally transported to the island and cultivated by the early Viking settlers.

In 2018, Stephen and Aly realised their long-held dream and opened the Orkney Distillery on the Kirkwall harbour front. Thanks in part to his original background in construction and property, Stephen was able to design and build the distillery, which features a working distillery, cafe, shop, and bar. Visitors to the distillery can enjoy a tour where they will learn more about the gin making process and discover the background behind the brand, products and islands. The distillery also features an outdoor area called “Oot the back”, which features covered seating areas where visitors can sit and enjoy drinks regardless of the weather.

Stephen, Aly and the distillery team have gone on to develop a range of Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gins, including Arkh-Angell Storm Strength Orkney Gin, which is a high ABV Navy Strength Gin, Aurora Spiced Orkney Gin which reflects the winter months on the island. Each Scottish Gin incorporates an element of the Orkney Islands through local botanicals, folklore or the changing seasons, with each gin presented in a bespoke bottle that features embossed waves on the glass along with the Vegvisir, the Viking Compass, printed on the top of every bottle stopper.

Kirkjuvagr Origin Orkney Gin

Created to reflect the boldness of Orkney’s Norse ancestors, the clarity of the seas and the purity of the air. A local legend states that the botanical Angelica was brought to the island by one of the many ships and groups of Vikings who visited the island. Angelica is now one of the defining ingredients, complementing a distinctive blend of local botanicals, including ramanas rose, burnet rose and borage. Uniquely, they’ve also used traditional Orkney bere barley in the signature gin recipe. The custom glassware, revealed in December 2021, retains the signature Orcadian wave design but has been integrated into the cut of the glass, creating a beautiful sculpted texture. "Vegvisir", the mythical Norse compass, also remains; stamped into the bottle and etched atop the closure.

Kirkjuvagr Arkh-Angell Storm Strength Orkney Gin

Arkh-Angell retains the smoothness and characteristics of the original Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin but the increased strength brings new depths to its complex flavour profile. Arkh-Angell is a tribute to generations of island seafarers and carries the name of a local fishing boat that has a place close to the heart of many Orcadians. The locally grown variety of Norwegian angelica, called Archangelica, was taken to the Islands centuries ago by sailors from the North.

Kirkjuvagr Aurora Spiced Orkney Gin

In Orkney, the appearance of the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, marks the start of the journey towards the long, dark nights of an island winter. This Aurora edition seeks to bring extra warmth and spice to those dark, crisp evenings under the stars.  Ground cinnamon, nutmeg and whole cloves provide the warm spice whilst pink and black peppercorns provide a lasting tongue-tingling presence in the finish.

Kirkjuvagr Beyla Honey & Raspberry Old Tom Orkney Gin

This Old Tom style pink gin combines rare Orcadian honey with fresh Scottish raspberries. Beyla - named after the Norse goddess of bees - continues Orkney Distilling’s distinctive brand themes, which draw inspiration from the Viking and seafaring heritage of the islands. Fresh Scottish raspberries bring extra fruitiness and colour to the 40% ABV Beyla - developed from Orkney Distilling’s signature Kirkjuvagr Gin - while balancing the sweetness brought by the island honey.

Kirkjuvagr Foy Orkney Gin

This 2020 special edition was brought back for the Orkney Folk Festival, which celebrates and enjoys tourism and traditional music in Orkney. Despite postponement of the popular annual event, this limited gin celebrates and supports the special event with the return of this dedicated festival gin and serves as a reminder that music is the beating heart of Orkney. A proportion of profits go directly to the festival, which will return in 2021 for their 38th event. Citrus notes from Calamondin complement a melody of locally grown botanicals, including Angelica, Aronia, Borage, Meadowsweet, Burnet Rose and Ramanas Rose.

Northwest Passage Expedition Gin

Northwest Passage Expedition Gin has been created at the Orkney Distillery, home to Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin, to mark and fund a very special expedition. Proceeds will fund the Last Great First, which is a maritime navigation of the Northwest Passage sea route from the Atlantic to the Pacific – a 3,700km odyssey, powered entirely by a small group of modern day adventurers. Ultimately, the Northwest Passage Expedition Gin supports the Big Blue Ocean Cleanup, which aims to end ocean pollution. The unique flavours are drawn from Sugar Kelp, Angelica Archangelica, Ramanas Rose and Burnet Rose, found on the twin shores of the mighty Hudson Bay and the Orkney Islands. The Angelica root adds a hint of sweetness, that is balanced by a subtle, floral note from the roses. The addition of lemon peel and calamondin citrus brings the bright, citrus notes to the gin and sugar kelp brings a mild saltiness to the palette, connecting the gin to the sea.

The Orkney Distillery

Situated on the seafront of Kirkwall, Orkney’s capital, The Orkney Distillery houses a bar, shop, tasing room and the distillery. The distillery blends into its surroundings with its traditional saw tooth roof and you’ll find a range of drinks available at the bar. Discover more about the Kirkjuvagr range of gins and the distillation process on their tour. Get an insight into botanicals and enjoy a tasting session in the tasting room, which overlooks Kirkwall harbour. Once you’re done you can browse the shop, which is well stocked with gifts and there’s lots of seating for you to enjoy a gin, tea or coffee. The gin making experience involves spending the afternoon crafting your own gin using a miniature still under careful direction before being bottled and finished with a bespoke label. The experience also includes complimentary gin tastings, tonics and nibbles from local food producers.

Tour : Yes Gin School : Yes Cafe : Yes Bar : Yes Shop : Yes Booking : Book a tour or gin making experience here

News & Features

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You can learn more about the maker by clicking the links below.

Orkney Gin Company

Special Edition Christmas Old Tom

Old Tom (a technique/type of gin which involves lightly sweetening the spirit.)

This quintessentially Christmassy delight is all natural, handmade with whole fruit; lemons, oranges and wintery dried fruits, cosy cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves anda touch of ginger.

Orkney Vodka

Vodka  ( Distilled spirit most commonly made from grain or potatoes)

Distinctively Orcadian Vodka handcrafted on the Stunning Orkney Islands in small batches.  Slow Distilled an exceptional eight times creating a smooth and luxurious spirit.

Orkney Akvavit

Aquavit/Akvavit  ( Scandinavian

Distilled Spirit)

Taste Orkney's historical Norse connections with Orkney Akvavit - Scotland's first Akvavit and  our first non-gin spirit.

A refreshing and  revitalising Nordic distilled spirit

with herbaceous caraway, citrus and rosehips

Gin  (a spirit with juniper forward and several other delicious  botanicals)

Johnsmas - meaning 'mid summer' in  old Orcadian,  is a floral and fragrant gin crafted using a   variety of hand picked  and  seasonal botanicals that capture the clean and refreshing floral notes of an O rcadian  summer.

Bold, seasonal

botanicals make up our Mikkelmas gin, which captures the  spirit of the Mikkelfeast -  'harvest time' here in Orkney,  creating a

a spiced, silky smooth autumnal gin.

Rhubarb Old Tom

Old Tom (a technique/type of gin which involves lightly sweetening the spirit. - perfect for tart rhubarb!)

Made to a traditional Old Tom style which originates in

the 18th century, Rhubarb Old Tom is a soft, lightly sweetened full strength rhubarb gin, made using botanicals which compliment Scotland's seasonal rhubarb. 

London Dry Gin  (a spirit with juniper forward and several other delicious botanicals - specific rules within the industry apply to qualify as a London Dry - don't worry, it's still made in Orkney!)

Inspired by Orkney's folklore tales of Selkie Folk,  Aatta is made to a premium London Dry standard with lots of fresh and zesty botanicals. The name means 'eight' in Old Norse, which reflects the number of botanicals, the number of distillations and it's the  eighth product we have released. 

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Orkney Gin Company

Orkney Gin produce small batch premium award winning gin.

Orkney Gin Company produce small batch premium gins from our family home. We use seven times distilled grain spirit and the finest botanicals from our Islands and beyond. We are passionate about Orkney and its fine ingredients and think this shines through in the gin we produce.

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Outlander Filming Locations Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• English-Speaking Local Guide
• On castle closure dates, Linlithgow Palace and Callendar House will be substituted.
• Doune, Midhope and Blackness Castle Entry is not included in the price of this tour.
• Entry/Admission - Blackness Castle
• Entry/Admission - Doune Castle
• Entry/Admission - Midhope Castle
• Haggis Adventures, 60 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB, UK This tour will depart at 8:45 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure and look for the check-in staff wearing blue high-visibility vests there to greet you.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

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• You'll start at Haggis Adventures 60 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB, UK This tour will depart at 8:45 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure and look for the check-in staff wearing blue high-visibility vests there to greet you. See address & details
• 1 Blackness Castle Stop: 55 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 2 Doune Castle Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 3 Falkland Stop: 45 minutes See details
• 4 Culross Stop: 90 minutes See details
• 5 Midhope Castle Stop: 45 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• sarapedia 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stay wild with this tour to Scotlands wild rough nature 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🩵 This tour has been absolutely stunning! Not just a wee bit;) Our amazing guide Tom introduced us to his gorgeous „Haggis playlist“ with not just pipes but lots of Taylor Swift after we had asked for it🩵 The tour itself was perfectly fitted, not too much time in the coach, but time to stop, explore and grab sth to eat or a coffee and then head on - incl two nights on the Isle of Skye 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 so rough, such a wild nature! Haggis‘ hashtag #Staywild absolutely matched this tour and Scotlands beauty! Highly recommended and sure to join again! (but: upgrade your room to the B&B, the Skye Inn, the dinner there is delicious;) Read more Written May 24, 2024
• B2570LJcoletteg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A magical time! This was my first solo trip and I am SO thankful I went with Haggis Adventures. Our tour guide Rich truly made this experience spectacular. We fit so many amazing sights into 5 days. Rich was hilarious, witty and so knowledgeable. It seemed like every landmark we passed he knew the history, lore and had some sort of personal story, which made time on the bus fly by. The total group was about 30 people - a combination of 2 bus tour bookings, with the Haggis Adventure folks staying in hostels, and the Highland Explorer folks staying in hotels. Rich went out of his way to accommodate the guests, and even helped me get a last minute ticket on the Jacobite steam train, which was a highlight of my time in Scotland. We were usually on our own for lunch and dinners, but Rich always had great recommendations and many of the bus group mingled and ate together for meals. We had a blast at the pubs in the evening and enjoyed much live music. I made lovely friends on this trip and would recommend this company to anyone! Already dreaming of my next visit back to Scotland. Read more Written May 23, 2024
• K2117ORlisah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Road trip with friends I did a combined tour of Haggis Adventures and Highland Explorer. This tour was the perfect combination of history, legends, short hikes, city and picturesque landscape. Thanks to our guide and driver Rich, we quickly build a personal relationship with the country and its people, We heart great (personal) stories, gained knowledge and had many laughs. Rich, you are a marvellous storyteller! Thanks to his numerous tips we enjoyed wonderful food every day (for every budget) and an unforgettable evening in the pub! The very diverse group grew together quickly, so that on day 2 you already have the feeling of a road trip with friends. I couldn't have wished for more, happy to do it again! Read more Written May 20, 2024
• Coastal59604096613 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Harry Potter Train Did the Harry Potter Train Tour. The Tour was amazing. Our guide, Ryan, had unbelievable knowledge/trivia about the area. He kept us entertained every minute. Kudos to him and Highland Explorer Tours for immersing the participants in this adventure. Great highlight … up close with the Hairy Coos :D Read more Written May 19, 2024
• K2117ORlisah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Like a road trip with friends I usually travel individually, but I'm very happy to have joined this tour. I would have never seen and experienced so much in such a short time on my own and certainly wouldn't have discovered some of the spots. The tour was the perfect mix of history, legends, short hikes, city and picturesque landscape. Thanks to our guide and driver Rich, you not only quickly build up a personal relationship with the country and its people, you also hear great (personal) stories, gain knowledge and have a laugh. Rich, you are a marvellous storyteller! Not to forget that thanks to his numerous tips we enjoyed wonderful food every day (for every budget) and an unforgettable evening in the pub! Thanks to him, everyone was in a great mood, open-minded and the very diverse group grew together quickly, so that on day 2 you already have the feeling of a road trip with friends. I couldn't have wished for more, happy to do it again! Read more Written May 19, 2024
• Curious68294767495 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Trip which was cancelled Booked a 1 day trip from Edinburgh which included Jacobite Steam Train. I booked 8th December to go on 16th May 2024 with friends who were coming from Australia. The train was cancelled March 28th to April 17th then up and running again with fewer carriages. I phoned Haggis Adventures numerous times including 2 days before we were due to go and was told YES the train was running ok. Got an email the day before departure, saying dont be late as coach leaves at 7.15am. We got there at 6.45am only to be told whole trip was cancelled and they had emailed me on the 10th May, which i never received and there was another customer there who hadnt received one either. They told me they had known about the cancellation for 1 week but i had phoned them 2 days before our trip and they had confirmed all was ok. Attitude of customer service was appalling, and my friends and i totally disappointed. They just did not seem to care. Wont be booking with them again. We are getting a full refund but that is not the problem.. Margaret Peace Read more Written May 18, 2024
• DayTrip34418931155 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Tour With Cara Had an absolutely fabulous 5 day adventure with Cara. She was so friendly and went above and beyond what her job called for I got to experience so many special things that wouldn't be possible without this tour. This tour runs at the same time as Haggis Adventures (hostels accommodation) and Highland Explorer Tours (hotel accommodation) which means you get a good mixture of all different ages and backgrounds. Had a blast and would recommend this trip to anyone especially if you get Cara as a guide & driver <3 I so wish that it went for longer, even two weeks would've been amazing. Read more Written May 12, 2024
• robynwJ9143BZ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The highlands 💙🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿👌 Cara was an amazing driver and guide. Loved the historical information as she carefully drove us around. She truely loves her country and was in awe of the scenery, as were we! We had the best weather and covered a lot in 3 days. Highly recommended 👌 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💙 Read more Written May 12, 2024
• 931ashlinl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Scotland tour with Louise as guide/navigator Louise was such a wonderful guide/navigator! She had so many punny and funny stories and she made sure that we all arrived safely and recommended wonderful restaurants and experiences like the Ceilidh which I had a blast at! Read more Written May 7, 2024
• jbacoog 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Soul searching Era I fell in love with the beautiful views of Highlands. I will definitely come back again in Scotland. Read more Written April 30, 2024
• B4644YIpatriciag 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles ONE DAY AROUND SCOTLAND The tour was amazing and it was most because of our guides, Laura and Martin. Who has told us a lot of stories during the trip. Loved it. Really recommended! Read more Written April 27, 2024
• craigr300 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Bangin' Daylong Jaunt Into the Scottish Countryside Sophie was amazin'! She got us threaded through the nasty Edinburgh traffic, all the while giving us interesting and funny anecdotes. The Kelpies were truly weird - they have to be experienced up close and personal. Loch Lomond is everything the sentimental song says it is. I get misty just thinking back on it. Finally, Stirling Castle. What can you say? It's big, it's ornate, it's made from lots of rocks. Absolutely breathtaking. Better than Edinburgh Castle, even. A fantastic time at a great price! Read more Written April 27, 2024
• fran_oisebO6529RF 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A DREAMLIKE TOUR WHICH GOES BEYOND WHAT EXPECTED. FABULOUS!!. A great time in a magnificent environment. So many things to discover . The group was very friendly and Martin ,our guide, is an amazing driver,a great history teller and he makes us like this wonderful country. I willl recommend this trip . Read more Written April 6, 2024
• D7394TDkarenm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing tour guide and tour. Ryan was an amazing tour guide. We felt safe and found him to be extremely knowledgeable. We had lots of opportunities for photographs and thoroughly enjoyed his commentary. This was the best tour we have been on and would recommend it to anyone. We are from Australia. Well done Ryan. Read more Written April 5, 2024
• O8204GJianr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Edinburgh tour to loch Ness We had a great tour with Ryan on the 2nd April, very informative tour with a touch of light humour, some great stories of past times and even a visit to the highland Coo's which he really like himself. Highly recommended for a good day touring. 😀 Read more Written April 3, 2024

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Fingerprinting gin could help improve flavour and detect fakes

Published: 5 Feb 2024

Chemists at Heriot-Watt have trialled a new technique that takes a chemical fingerprint of gin in just seconds. 

Dr Ruaraidh McIntosh, Dr Dave Ellis and PhD student Kacper Krakowiak from Heriot-Watt worked with Professor Dušan Uhrín from the University of Edinburgh on the project. 

The team says their technique could help producers futureproof their gins and conduct quality control, while regulators could use it to detect fraudulent products. 

Dr Ruaraidh McIntosh said: “Gin production has exploded in Scotland and the UK over the past 20 years, but compared to Scotch whisky it’s very loosely defined and regulated, and not well-researched. 

“Producers need to know more so that they can ensure they have years of sustainable, flavoursome gin ahead of them. 

“And consumers and importers need to know that ginis genuine and the quality they’re expecting.”

Alcohol, water, botanicals 

Gin is quite loosely defined, but the EU states that it must contain a minimum of 37% alcohol and the spirit is traditionally associated with flavourings provided by juniper berries.

Dr Dave Ellis said: “We know from whisky research that chemical compounds have a huge impact on the flavour and sensory properties of a dram, even though they are in very low concentrations. 

“Understanding which compounds are in a gin, and have an impact on flavour and mouth feel, could help distillers improve their gin, or guarantee uniformity of flavour.” 

The Heriot-Watt researchers used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to examine the gin. It’s a technique more commonly used in the structural determination of molecules. 

Ellis said: “At the moment, most gin analysis is carried out using mass spectrometry. It’s effective and highly sensitive but does not provide a complete picture of the composition in a single experiment in the way that NMR can.  

“NMR basically fingerprints the gin’s chemical compounds. It does this by detecting the signals given by the hydrogen atoms in each compound. These act as markers and enable identification.”

“In under five minutes, we end up with an overlay of all these fingerprints, providing a snapshot of the compounds present. .” 

Molecules affect gin’s flavour and scent 

The team put 16 different gins to the test, some they bought from the supermarket and some samples were provided by colleagues at Heriot-Watt’s International Centre for Brewing and Distilling (ICBD). 

Dr Dave Ellis said: “We determined which compounds were present in each gin, and in which quantities. 

“NMR can distinguish between different structural forms of individual molecules, and there are many of these cases in gin. 

“For example, the flavour compounds pinene and limonene have the same atomic makeup but have different structures and, critically, flavours. 

“We tested some fruit gins and gin liqueurs. The NMR identified the different varieties of sugar present in the gin, which are introduced through flavour additives, and their quantity. This is important information for consumers. 

“UK distillers rely on imported juniper berries for their gin, and climate change could affect their quality and availability. If their traditional supply dries up, will sourcing juniper berries from elsewhere change the flavour? That’s what we could determine with this technique.

“NMR has huge potential for the gin industry.” 

“It’s like the wild west” 

Dr Ellis points out the contrast between gin and whisky. 

“The whisky market is very well-regulated, but there’s no equivalent for gin. The EU imposes some requirements, but essentially, you can make anything, call it a gin and nobody will give you any trouble. It’s a bit like the wild west. 

“Colleagues at the Heriot-Watt International Centre for Brewing and Distilling have created a  database of botanicals  and this could be used as a basis of standardisation in the future, but we shouldn’t discourage innovation in gin production. 

“We just need to try and find a way of reassuring consumers that the ‘gin’ that they are drinking really is gin.”

The researchers are expanding their studies to embrace many more types of so-called gin and other alcoholic beverages. 

The findings are reported in the  Journal of Brewing and Distilling.