Norlaggan Blog

Nice photo

2011-12-08T06:57:00.001Z

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A_GGOw6TDGA/Tt0poAnMbHI/AAAAAAAAHQU/v9rNUzqSacY/s1280/house001.jpg

Aberlour Distillery Founders Tour

2011-11-22T19:08:00.000Z

If you visit Speyside during the Summer months it can be difficult to get booked on some of the specialist tours. This year Aberlour Distillery are running their tours (including the Founders Tour) throughout the winter. For further information and opening times/tour times visit www.aberlour.com

If you have to stay overnight Norlaggan B&B is within walking distance from the distillery

Boogie Woogie In Keith - Great Place For Lunch

2011-11-22T18:52:00.001Z

If you're looking for a spot of lunch (perhaps after a visit to Strathisla Distillery) why not call in to the Boogie Woogie Restaurant in Fife Keith. Lovely homemade food at reasonable prices. Ros and I visit regularly and its always a pleasure

Guests FIshing On Aberlour Association Water

2011-05-09T20:51:00.000+01:00

Linn of Ruthrie, Aberlour

2011-04-21T08:17:00.000+01:00

1.75 miles - Allow I Hour

Aberlour - or Charlestown of Aberlour to give it its full Sunday name - is a beautiful village near the Spey. This excellent short walk visits the fine Linn of Ruthrie (Linn Falls) on the Aberlour Burn.

1. There is parking at various points in Aberlour; the largest is the public car park which is signed from the central square, past the church and under the old railway near the River Spey. Begin the walk by heading back past the church to the heart of this fine village. It is best known as the home of Walkers Shortbread (factory on the eastern edge) and for its distillery but also has some good local shops - check out the excellent Spey Larder deli. Afterwards, cross the busy main road and head up Queen's Road opposite, passing another fine church tower.

2. Continue up the road, keeping straight on at a crossroads and following it as it climbs uphill and curves to the right. At a junction with Allachie Drive cut up onto a footpath which shortcuts onto the road that runs at a higher level (signed Fairy Knowe). Once just above the street of houses take a drive on the right that passes the backs of their sheds, with a single house on its left. Continue ahead passing round a gate and eventually into the woods.

3. Ignore a path off to the left and keep on the main route, curving right and descending steps by a handrail. At the bottom of the steps turn right, still with a handrail above the steep drop to the Aberlour burn on the left. Soon the top of the Linn (or falls) is reached; keep to the path by the burn to descend to their foot where there is a good view back of the double cascade.

4. Continue down by the now more placid burn, rising slightly near a weir. Soon the Aberlour Distillery will be seen across the far side; keep ahead and then turn right after the electricity substation. This leads onto a path beside an old cottage, rising up steps to reach a street. Turn left at the cross-roads further
on to return to the start

t

FREE ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD

2011-01-14T08:23:00.004Z

We are a small family run B&B in Speyside Scotland (where the whisky comes from) We are looking for someone to lend a hand (April - September 2011) with the B&B e.g. room changes. If we are quiet you won't be required to help so can enjoy a day off.

Accommodation provided (caravan with cooker, fridge, shower, toilet, Satelite TV, DVD Free Wifi) for maximum 2 hours a day. Will include breakfast and evening meal for maximum 4 hours between house and garden.We say maximum because some days we only have 1 room let (or even no lets), If weather isn't suitable for garden your time would be your own after doing any room change required

Happy to take a couple (caravan has double bed) with 1 person helping with the B&B and the other doing a few hours work in the garden. . . . or mix it up as you wish

Will come to a fair arrangement to give you maximum time to enjoy this beautiful part of Scotland together

Very flexible. Will happily take someone for the whole summer (April - September 2011) but to give more people the chance we prefer 2-4 week sessions so would suit someone backpacking and wanting to spend a few weeks in Scotland.We are very easy going and looking for same

Email admin@norlaggan.co.uk or tel: UK 01340 871270

For details see CLICK HERE

Excellent Whisky Ad

2010-11-28T21:21:00.001Z

Free Range Eggs - All Year Round

2010-11-25T14:21:00.005Z

There is nothing like a REAL freerange egg. We have a total of 9 hens (5 ISA warrens and 4 Light Suffolk) to keep the B&B supplied with fresh eggs ever morning even during the winter. Here's Ros' giving them their daily treat - fresh cabbage

Combine Aberlour Founders Tours With Our Lowest Ever Rates

2010-11-25T14:02:00.003Z

The founders tour at Aberlour Distillery is normally only available 2 days a week because of the number of visitors wanting to take the reguklar tour. However, during January and February Julian is happy to run The Founders Tour any day Monday to Friday for groups of minimum 4 people.

This is a great opportunity to take an in depth tour which is normally booked-out at other times of the year.

Combine this with cheap winter rates at Norlaggan Bed & Breakfast (which is within walking distance).

Simply book accommodation for 4 people or more at www.norlaggan.co.uk and add a note in the comments box that you would like to take The Founders Tour and we will arrange everything for you.

To take advantage of our cheapest ever rates (from £12.91 per person per night) click here

2010-11-25T13:52:00.001Z

Plans are well under way for the 2011 SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL. Keep an eye on www. spiritofspeyside.com for over 200 events. We still have a couple of rooms available for the Festival. Live online booking at www.norlaggan.co.uk including rooms that take up to 4 people

History Of Fishing - North East Scotland

2010-11-04T09:27:00.002Z

It is highly creditable to the enterprise of the fishermen that the line- and the herring-fishing resources of the county are the largest in Scotland. The greatest herring fishery in the world is that prosecuted in Scotland, and in its contribution to that fishery, Banffshire takes the leading place.

Up to 1907 all fishing vessels belonging to Banffshire had a distinctive number which was prefaced by the letters BF. In that year the seaboard was divided into two districts of registration, Banff and Buckie, the fishing craft in the Banff Fishery district retaining the BF designation, while newly acquired boats in the Buckie Fishery district began a fresh register under the letters BCK.

The hey-day of the sail fishing fleet occurred perhaps in the eighties and in the earlier years of the nineties of last century. The Banffshire fleet of that day had a supremacy in numbers and in efficiency that was unchallenged in Scotland. The large white letters "BF" on the broad expanse of the brown sails of the yacht-like zulus were to be seen on every sea around Britain, and their presence was a vital influence in the fortunes of a fishing that was of national importance. Seventy years ago the scaffie, undecked for the most part, was the boat in common use in Banffshire. That type gave way to the Fifie boats, first

built in Fifeshire, while both were displaced by the zulu boat, which for long dominated the position. This type, matchless for sea-worthiness and sailing power, became very popular, and for years a first-class zulu boat was the best equipped and most highly valued vessel in the northern fishing fleet.

The increasing size of these craft and the growing productive power of the trawling industry led to a development in Banffshire that'still holds good. Lines were practically abandoned, and the whole year was devoted to the capture of herrings in all the seas round the British Isles.

The influential part taken in activities of the kind by craft from the county finds fitting illustration in official figures. At the English fishing of 1913, for instance, there took part i 163 Scottish boats, and of these 454 belonged to the county of Banff, while of the total value (£763,256) of fish landed by the Scottish fleet working that season in England, the share of Banffshire boats was £311,384. In the same year, of 159 Scottish boats that worked on the Irish coast, 88 belonged to Banffshire and of the total yield (£40,572) of Scottish boats, the contribution of Banffshire crews was £21,690.

In the early years of the present century another great development was the introduction of steam-power to the fishing craft, and now the county has a larger and more valuable fleet of steam drifters than any other county in Scotland.

The story of progress in the present century reads indeed like a fairy tale. Thus in 1900 the Banff Fishery district had no steam vessel; the Buckie district had three, the value of which, with their gear, was put at £8094. Fourteen years later the number of steam drifters in the county had increased to 398 and their value was put at over one million sterling. At the same time sailing boats decreased in value and in number: in 1900 there were in the Banff district 463 and in the Buckie district 731, figures that nine years later fell to 372 and 443. Since that time the same tendency has increased; and if the prophecy of a Portknockie fisherman may not prove true that the sail boat here may become as much a thing of the past as Caesar's galleys, the trend of the industry is certainly all in that direction. In the meantime the process has been held somewhat in check by the installation in a number of the zulu boats of motor engines and by the provision of other new craft similarly fitted. These vessels, as occasion demands, may use either the wind or the motor. In the year 1913, the year preceding the outbreak of war, when matters were normal, fishing resources in the county were:

That gave a total of 369 steam drifters owned in the county. Irn the same year there were in all Scotland 876 vessels of the type, the county of Aberdeen, with its three Fishery districts of Aberdeen, Peterhead and Fraserburgh, coming next to Banffshire with 272, or fewer than the number owned in the single district of Buckie. Thus in 19! 3 the fishing plant of Banffshire consisted of:

The va\ue that year of fishing plant and gear on the East Coast of Scotland—on the West Coast the figures are negligible—was £4,736,508. Deduct from that the valuation of the fishing plant of Aberdeen, consisting for the most part of trawlers, and we reach a value for the East Coast of 3,506,294. Of that total Banffshire claimed more than one-third: so that its supremacy in potential herring-fishing capacity is unchallenged in Scotland, and we must remember that by far the greater part of these wealthy resources accrued to the county within the previous 14 years, and had been derived entirely from the democratic herring. There is the curious accompanying fact that the herring fishing in the county has declined of late years. No large fleet of boats makes any of the towns its seasonal headquarters, and the landing of herrings at county ports is confined to some extent to week-ends when boats return to replenish their fishing gear or for a general outfit.

The development of the fisheries led to large extension of the boat-building yards in the county and that industry has in consequence reached an important position. In the increase of population it has been reflected most definitely in the parish of Rathven, the headquarters of the fishermen of Banffshire. In 1861 its population was 8240; and in 1911 it was 15,995, so that in the course of fifty years the population was doubled.

In several ways the fisher folk are a race apart. Their difference of dialect has already (p. 48) been noticed. Remarkable, too, is the way their communities have maintained a continuity of family names. In a recent roll of voters, confined to male householders, all fishermen, there were in the quoad sacra parish of Gardenstown 17 Nicols, i g Wisemans, 26 Wests, and 68 Watts. Macduff with a few Patersons and Watts, had 17 MacKays and zo Wests, while in Banff the Woods numbered 27. Two names predominated in Whitehills—Lovie and Watson, numbering respectively 18 and 19.

Portsoy had 8 Mairs, 1.1 Piries, and 14 Woods, while in the hamlet of Sandend no fewer than 26 of the heads of fishermen's families belonged to the great family of Smith. Cullen had 33 of the name of Gardiner and 55 of the name of Findlay, while in Portknockie there were 20 Piries, 24 SIaters, 47 Woods, and 84 Mairs, or 175 heads of families of four names. Findochty went even one better, for it had 182 fishermen householders with four names between them—Campbell 24, Smith 35, Sutherland 39, and Flett 84. In Buckie, east of the Burn, there were 15 Coulls, 29 Jappys, 69 Murrays, ii 6 Smiths, and 128 Cowies, while in the western division there were 23 Coulls, 28 Geddeses, and 47 Reids. In Portgordon there were 21 Coulls, and 32 Reids. The circumstance explains, of course, the habit that is almost universal of having a tee name as well, a name by which the fisherman is more familiarly known than that in which he has been registered. The multiplicity in a small community of instances of the same name makes it not only a convenience but a necessity. How else, among scores of Cowies, of Coulls, of Jappys, Woods and Slaters, many of them of the same Christian name, is one to differentiate? So accustomed are many of them to be recognised only by what may be called their acquired names, that they are addressed, not by their Christian names, but as Johndie, Saners, Pum, Gyke, Dottie, Smacker, Dumpy, Bosan, Cockle, Bo, and so on.

The classic instance that illustrates the point has been told by Mr Joseph Robertson. A stranger had occasion to call on a fisherman in one of the Banffshire coast villages of the name of Alexander White. Meeting a girl, he asked, "Could you tell me far Sanny Fite lives?" "Filk Sanny Fite?" "Muckle Sanny Fite." "Filk muckle Sanny Fite?" "Muckle lang Sanny Fite." "Filk muckle lang Sanny Fite?" "Muckle lang gleyed Sanny Fite," shouted the stranger. "Oh! it's 'Goup-the-Lift' [= Sky-starer] ye're seekin'," cried the girl, "an' fat for dinna ye speer for the man by his richt name at ance?"

Ros' Recipe For Traditional Scottish Stovies

2010-11-03T15:38:00.003Z

Stovies is traditionally a left over dish from the Sunday Roast, using the tatties, meat and dripping leftovers all thrown into one pot. A real belly warmer for cold winter nights. You will often find that Ceildh Nights in Scotland during the winter months serve stovies at half time.

The recipe below is a traditional one but if you like you can substitute the beef for diced venison

The origins of stovies are said to come from a time when masters would give their servants the left over food from Sunday lunch. They would take this home or to their quarters and make a dish that could last them all week and was easy to cook.

Why not give this traditional scottish dish a try if you are planning a a party for St. Andrews Night or if you are planning to share a few drams with some friends on New Year's Eve

ROS' STOVIE RECIPE

Stovies Ingredients:

Left over Beef diced up

4 large Tatties partially

boiled and sliced

1 thinly sliced onion

1 tablespoon of dripping from the cooked beef

A wee bit of beef stock

Salt and Pepper

Stovies Cooking Directions:

1. Add a wee bit of lard to a pot and gently cook the onions until soft. Add the beef (chicken/lamb can be used if prefered). Add salt and pepper.

2. Cover with tattie slices and cover with the stock depending on how moist you prefer the meal. We add a wee bit and top up as required.

3. Simmer on the hob for about an hour or cook in the oven at 190c for about 50 minutes.

4. Serve piping hot with oatcakes, beetroot and skirlie .

Time For Tea - 12 Different Types

2010-11-02T16:07:00.007Z

I have to admit to being a tea-lover. Nothing annoys me more when I check into an exepensive hotel and the only tea available in the room is bog standard (normally cash-and-carry cheapest) tea bags.

We decided to go the extra mile at Norlaggan and now offer no fewer than 12 different teas:

Regular Tea

Scottish Blend Tea

Irish Blend Tea

Earl Gray Tea

Peppermint Tea

Green Lemon Tea

Redbush Herbal Infusions Tea (Caffeine Free)

Blackberry And Nettle Tea

Pomegranate & Raspberry Tea

Cranberry & Orange Tea

Cranberry, Raspberry & Elderflower Tea

Blackcurrant, Ginseng & Vanilla Tea

B&B From £12.91 Per Person Per Night

2010-10-31T13:17:00.006Z

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

We are normally happy to tick-over in the winter months with the odd room let here and there.

This year, however, we have decided to offer cut price breaks during the winter months. If you want to stay between now and 30th March (excluding Christmas and New Year period) then grab yourself a bargain.

Prices start at £12.91 per person per night for Bed & Breakfast (with free wifi - free sattelite TV)

This offer is ONLY available for Telephone Bookings to 01340 871270

Visit our website at www.norlaggan.co.uk but don't use the online booking form (otherwise you will be charged full-rate) Check out the place and what there is to do in and around lower Speyside then tel: 01340 871270 to book

Further information about Aberlour can be found at www.visitaberlour.com

So - time for a break?

YOU COULD BE SUED!

2010-10-30T09:10:00.004+01:00

There was a great deal of debate during the winter of 2010 about the question of liabilty for householders and businesses who cleared snow and ice from the pavements in front of their premises. The Scottish Government, in an attempt to clarify the situation has said:

"There is no law which stops residents or business owners from clearing snow and ice from pavements outside their homes and premises. If an accident did happen it's highly unlikely that you would be sued . . ."

OK - that's government speak for:

"if you do clear pavements of snow and ice and an accident happens YOU CAN BE SUED"

Halloween At The Old Pantry

2010-10-29T11:31:00.003+01:00

Well done the girls at the Old Pantry Restaurant in Aberlour. They have decorated the place for Halloween and are giving all children a spooky party-bag this weekend. Ellen is always up for some lark and will be helping to organise the Visit Aberlour Children's Party on 15th December

To view all the photos for Old Pantry Halloween CLICK HERE

How Close Is The Distillery Pub Speyside Way Etc

2010-10-21T13:30:00.005+01:00

We are often asked how close we are to pubs, distillery tour, Speyside Way etc. This video illustrates that all that Aberlour has to offer is within a few minutes walk of Norlaggan

Rare Whisky To Go To Auction

2010-10-21T11:03:00.003+01:00

AN extremely rare bottle of whisky, distilled in Portsoy and possibly dating back to the early part of last century, is set to go up for auction.

"It may well be the only one in existence," said auctioneer John Ferguson, of Cluny Auctions in Buckie, who admitted it is impossible to put any kind of price on it.

He added: "So little is known about the whisky - it will be worth simply what someone is prepared to pay for it on the day of the auction.

"No reserve price has been put on the bottle, so it will sell.

"I would like to see it go to a good home - a museum or a serious collector. I think it would be past drinking."

The original label on the unusual 10-inch, corked bottle says it is finely matured Glen Boyne old Scotch whisky. At the bottom of the label it has the retailer's name G. G. McRobie, Portsoy, established 1846.

Mr Ferguson told the 'Banffshire Journal' this week: "The bottle has been passed down through the generations of a local family.

"I have tried to find out more about the whisky, but with little luck.

"I know there was a retailer by the name of McRobie in Portsoy, but I believe the shop has been closed a long time.

"It is my guess the whisky dates to around the turn of the 19th century, and certainly pre-Second World War.

"I would say it is the most interesting item for my whisky auction which will start at 11am on Saturday, October 31. I expect around 200 people turn up.

"People will also be able to follow the auction online."

In an effort to find out more about the whisky, the 'Banffshire Journal' sought the help of two Portsoy men with a keen interest in the town's history, Findlay Pirie and John Mitchell.
.

Mr Pirie (85), a retired Banff postmaster living in Portsoy, said William McRobie, originally from Keith, opened a business in Portsoy as a grocer and spirit merchant.

"He added branch after branch until he became the largest employer of labour in the district," said Mr Pirie. "He was also a fish curer, coal merchant, shipowner and had the Fordyce limeworks and Durn quarries.

"He died in 1886, and George, the son, was the name on the family shop when I was young. It was on the corner of Bridge Street and Low Street.

"He sold two types of whisky: one was more expensive than the other, but there was no longer a distillery in the town by then. The name Glen Boyne would have been taken from the nearby Boyne Burn to give it a local name. There is not a glen as such in the area.

"I think the shop closed around the 1950s or 60s. I am not aware of any McRobies still living in the area."

Mr Mitchell said: "I cannot be certain but it is my belief that there was no distillery of the McRobie name. G. G. McRobie had extensive interests in ship chandlery, was also a coal merchant, as well as being a grocer and spirit merchant.

"It would seem probable that he purchased whisky from some local source and bottled it under the name Glen Boyne There had been a distillery in Portsoy, but there is nothing to suggest that it might have been the supplier.

"The 'Burnside Distillery', according to the late local historian Jim Slater, was situated close to the junction of Burnside Street and Culbert Rig. There being no railway line at that time, there was no Bridge Street.

"The person running the distillery was called William Morrison, and it was also a William Morrison who, in 1874, acquired the 19-year lease for Craigmills Farm, the site for the Glenglassaugh Distillery, from R. W. Duff of Glassaugh.

"This could have been the William Morrison, brother of Alexander, one of the founding partnership in that distillery."

Macpherson sword Sought

2010-10-21T11:00:00.001+01:00

AN IMPRESSIVE replica of a 17th century outlaw’s sword has been constructed by a Banff group in the hope that the original can be found.

The five-foot-long medieval-style sword belonged to James Macpherson the freebooter, who was hanged in the town in 1700.

The idea is the latest project of the Banffshire Maritime and Heritage Association.

Legend has it that Macpherson had the title of the ‘Robin Hood of the North’.

He led a band of gypsies, who rustled cattle in the area and seemed too cunning to be caught.

However, Macpherson was finally apprehended by Lord Alexander Duff of Braco at St Rufus Fair in Keith, and brought to the jail in Banff.

He was tried at the town’s sheriff court and found guilty of being a thief.

A keen fiddle player, Macpherson is said to have written a tune titled Macpherson’s Lament or Rant.

On the day of his execution, he was taken to the gallows in Low Street and, as a last request, he played his tune and then offered his fiddle to the crowd, but no one dared to take it as Lord Braco was present, and they feared they would be associated with the outlaw.

Macpherson then broke it over his knee. A reprieve was said to be on his way to pardon Macpherson and when Braco heard of this he put the town clock in Banff forward by 15 minutes to make sure Macpherson was hanged.

Now the Banffshire Maritime and Heritage Association have had a replica constructed to see if the original can be found.

Stanley Bruce, secretary with the group, said: “We arranged for Stanley Smart, a blacksmith in Aberchirder, to construct the sword.

“It was said that Lord Braco took his sword and placed it in the armoury at Duff House, however it’s not there anymore.

“We hope the replica will make someone come forward with the original and it can go to Banff Museum, and the replica to the Clan Macpherson Museum in Newtonmore. In the meantime, the replica will stay at Banff Museum,” said the heritage group secretary.

Robert Taylor from Peterhead turned the handle and DJR Water Jetting in Oldmeldrum cut the blade.

Mr Bruce added: “We are grateful to all the people who help construct the sword as they gave their time for free.”

Private Collection Of 400 Whiskys

2010-10-15T13:57:00.005+01:00

The subject of collecting speyside whiskys was recently discussed on Twitter. Now my pal (Charlie Gammack - featured in this video) has a private collection of over 400 whiskys most of them Speyside, and is always happy to show off his fine collection to whisky enthusiasts staying as guests at Norlaggan . . . so if you should be coming to Norlaggan let me know and I'll arrange something with Charlie

The Dark Art Of Whisky Blending

2010-10-15T11:19:00.002+01:00

David Hayman meets Richard Paterson, master blender at Whyte & Mackay. It is worth remembering that 80% of Scotch Whisky goes for blending and Whyte & mackay is one of the best blended whisky. In this video Richard talks about the history of blending, tells us how best to drink blended whisky and makes a Special Blend just for Davis Hayman

Founders Tour At Aberlour

2010-10-15T11:02:00.004+01:00

If you are planning a trip to Speyside to enjoy some of the fine whiskies produced here we would highly recommend the Aberlour Founders Tour. Something a bit different from run of the mill tours. The distillery is located only a five minute walk away from Norlaggan. If you enjoy all the Whisky offered you will be well over the drink driving limit so staying at Norlaggan avoids "Dramming & Driving"

If you are planning a trip to Speyside to enjoy some of the fine whiskies produced here we would highly recommend the Aberlour Founders Tour. Something a bit different from run of the mill tours. The distillery is located only a five minute walk away from Norlaggan. If you enjoy all the Whisky offered you will be well over the drink driving limit so staying at Norlaggan avoids "Dramming & Driving"

How To Drink Blended Whisky

2010-10-15T10:42:00.006+01:00

Richard Paterson of Whyte & Mackay demonstrates the art of drinking blended whisky. It is worth remembering that 80% of Scotch is used for blending and of all the blends available Whyte & Mackay is one of the best. Here Richard Paterson, master blender (AKA the nose) explains how best to enjoy blended whisky

RAILBUS ON THE OLD SPEYSIDE LINE

2010-10-14T18:29:00.003+01:00

This old home movie is of the Railbus (known locally as the Sputnik) runnung on the old Speyside Line from Aviemore\to Craigellachie. Believe it or not people at the "halts" used to raise their hand to get the train to stop. Don't think it would happen today due to Health & Safety Regulations.

Empire Exhibition 1938

2010-10-14T14:27:00.004+01:00

Thanks to Frank Ogg of Aberlour for pointing me in the right direction for details about the Empire Exhibition in Glasgow 1938. Frank remembers being at Bellahouston Park for the event.

Bellahouston Park hosted the Empire Exhibition of 1938. The venue for Glasgow's three previous major exhibitions, Kelvingrove Park, was considered too small for this, the largest exhibition ever mounted in Scotland, on the fiftieth anniversary of the International Exhibition of 1888.

This plan indicates some of the advantages of Bellahouston Park. The exhibition site, some 187 acres, was mainly flat but with a hill in the centre to provide a focus. Two major roads, Paisley Road West and Mosspark Boulevard, run alongside the site and brought crowds by bus and tram. There are two railway stations shown, Ibrox Station being specially built for the Exhibition. The provision of a car park with a capacity of 10,000 was a sign of the times.

In 1938 Glasgow was emerging from an economic depression which had hit the city's traditional industries hard. It was hoped the Empire Exhibition would encourage optimism for the future

This colour photograph shows a view of the Empire Exhibition from the south, looking up the hill over the South Cascade to the Garden Club and the Tower of Empire. It was a condition of the lease of Bellahouston Park from Glasgow Corporation that the trees on the hill should be undisturbed.

Designed by Thomas P Marwick, the Garden Club occupied a prominent position overlooking the site. The restaurant was enclosed by glass windows, and a glass cocktail bar was nearby. There was a tea garden on the roof. Membership was open to all, but the subscription of five guineas proved a deterrent to many.

The Tower of Empire, popularly known as Tait's Tower, came to symbolise the Empire Exhibition. It was built of Scottish steel, set in a concrete base. 300 feet high and sited on a hill, it dominated its surroundings, particularly when lit up at night. An electric lift carried visitors up to the three balconies which served as viewing platforms.

Speyside Distilleries

2010-10-14T14:17:00.005+01:00

Can't believe it has been so long since I posted to the blog. Must do better.

Anyway here's a nice little video showing the 61 (or should be 62) distilleries in Scotland. If you think others should be included (or that some should be excluded) let me know.

Boiler Blues

2010-02-24T08:18:00.001Z

Murphy's Law
If a boiler is going to breakdown it is going to do it on one of the coldest nights of the year.

Fortunately we didn't have guests in (closed for re-decoration) and also fortunately we have insurance to cover such eventualities. Major repairs are being carried out this morning without costing us a penny

It still begs the question why a new boiler, supplied and fitted by British Gas (and maintained under contract) needs such major repairs less than 5 years after installation

Any other B&B owner take heed . . .get insurance to cover the repairs and also to cover loss of business. We adopt a belt and braces approach with back-up systems in place (hot water and heating) but I'm sure many smaller establishments haven't thought about the possibiliy of major breakdown of either hot water, heating, or in the case of Gas both.

PDF Brochures

2010-01-20T19:21:00.001Z

I have just uploaded 3 brochures which will be of interest to anyone visiting Speyside

1. Gordon & MacPhail
2. Aberlour Walks
3. Speyside Cooperage

I hope to add more over the coming weeks

Out At Last

2010-01-20T10:39:00.001Z

We Had 4 ft of snow in Aberlour

After 4 weeks of deep snow I finally dug to car out and took a run over to the coast. It was very cold on the beach but nevertheless nice to get out of the house and into the fresh air

AFTERNOON SUN REFLECTED ON BEACH POOLS

Decorating Season

2010-01-20T10:13:00.001Z

January is a quiet month, so time for Ros to get her paintbrushes out. This year we are decorating our 2 family rooms and the dining room. After two weeks of hard work everything will be finished for Friday 22nd January when we open for the 2010 season.

We are currently working on our Spey Fishing packages, combining Diner Bed & Breakfast at Norlaggan with a weeks salmon fishing on the River Spey. The first week will be 14th February (a few days after the start of the Salmon Season) and until the end of march a weeks fishing, with accommodation and evening meal will be £360 per person (based on 2 people sharing a double or twin room).

We will be posting further information here and on our web site . . in the meantime if you are interested please email admin@norlaggan.co.uk

We Have Started Tweeting

2009-07-22T10:20:00.002+01:00

We are now on twitter and have installed a widget to show our latest posting on the right

FlyoverAberlour

2009-04-06T20:13:00.002+01:00

This is a helicopter journal from Craigellachie to Ballindalloch with lovely shots of the River Spey and the village of Aberlour

New Day Old Chicks

2009-02-23T09:28:00.003Z

We got a new batch of day-0ld chicks last Thursday. In about 20 weeks they will join our ISA Warrens supplying eggs for the bed and breakfast

Chickens Come To Norlaggan

2009-01-26T12:36:00.000Z

Every year we use over 2,000 eggs in our Bed & Breakfast. We have been fortunate for a number of years to have local freerange eggs supplied by a friend. Unfortunately he has decided to stop keeping chickens (don't worry . . . . the chooks aren't being slaughtered . . they are being allowed to live out their lives, laying or not)

We know how much our guests appreciate real free range eggs so we are launching in to poultry keeping.

We have found a source for day-old chicks which would otherwise be sent to a battery farm. So 9 chicks are now being kept warm and cosy in preperation for moving into their lovely new home supplied by The Chicken House Company Ltd.

We are looking on this little girls, not just as egg producers but as pets and have given them names which we felt approriate for hens that are going to enjoy a happy, carefree and hopefully productive life on lower Speyside. So welcome to Cardhu, Aber(lour), Knock(andhu), (glen)Fiddich, Avon, Mortloch, (dallas)Dhu, Spey and (glen)Livet

We opted for a combined coop and run well over the size required and will also be building an attached larger run so that the hens can have lots of space to do hen things.

Hopefully by the beginning of April our guests will be enjoying fresh eggs from Norlaggan's Garden

Santa In Aberlour

2008-12-06T14:41:00.004Z

SANTA was in Aberlour today to oversee the switching on of the Christmas Lights which are bigger and better this year. He will also be making an appearance at the Children's Party on Wednesday 10th December. The annual party is for all primary aged children and is totally free with all costs being met out of donations from individuals and the Visit Aberlour Group

Todays event was organised for Aberlour Community Association with Aberlour & Speyside Rotary Club putting up the tents, the Old Pantry Restaurant supplying hot tea & biscuits for Santa's little helpers and Visit Aberlour suuplying the tents, sound system and decorations for Santa's Grotto

Dufftown Clock Tower

2008-12-01T16:29:00.003Z

The most prominent feature in Dufftown is the Clock Tower which was originally built in 1839 as the town jail. The Clock in the tower was in fact "second hand" having been relocated from Banff where it was known as the "Clock That Hanged MacPherson"

Our Whisky Champion

2008-12-01T13:30:00.003Z

ANGUS ROBERTSON MP

Hats off to the Scottish Whisky Industry and Angus Robertson MP (MP for Moray which includes Speyside) for getting the UK Government to back down (at least in part) on the proposed increase in "duty" to be paid on Scottish Whisky.

Angus (who I am pleased to say is our representative at Westminster) has once again proven himself to be a champion not just of the Industry but of all who enjoy a little dram of the "uisge beatha"

Following Alistair Darling's backdown Mr Robertson had this to say:

"I welcome the fact that the Treasury has buckled in the face of the outcry from the whisky industry and the SNP over the last 48 hours.

"It confirms just how much of an afterthought the whisky industry was to the chancellor that he took such a reckless decision in the first place.

As we would say in Scotland "On yersel Angus!"

Aberdeen Santa Fun Run

2008-12-01T08:28:00.003Z

About 500 people braved the elements in Aberdeen to take part in a 6km charity run while dressed as Santa Claus.

The first Aberdeen Santa Run was organised by Nairn-based WildHearts and the funds raised will be donated to poverty projects overseas.

The beachfront run started at Pittodrie Stadium at 1300 GMT on Sunday.

Mick Jackson, founder of WildHearts, said: "The response from the people of the north east to this has been fantastic."

He added: "The event saw a return to the original spirit of Christmas, with all money raised being used to provide micro-loans to help those living in poverty in the developing world.

"As the funds will be re-lent for years to come, the Aberdeen Santa Run will transform thousands of lives for many years ahead."

See: WildHearts Foundation

Yes I Am Excited About Our New Door!

2008-12-01T08:01:00.003Z

The lady from VisitScotland said "Get A
New Door
"

The man from Grampian Fire And Rescue said "Get A
New Door
"

The wife said "Get A
New Door
"

So . . . .I thought we should get a new door. Admittedly our current door (on the main entrance) is a bit shabby. It is one of those PVC things which, after 20 years, is looking a bit tired . . . .so . . .a
New Door
it would have to be.

Next . . what type of door? After great deliberation we decided that "if a job is worth doing it is worth doing well . . . ." Our
New Door
(which is being fitted today) is hand crafted from sustainable hardwood

Heather The Joiner (believe it or not equal opportunities have eventually reached the Highlands of Scotland) assures us it will last a lifetime. If I could I would describe our
New Door
but the truth is it took so long to make that Ros and I have forgotten what it is like!

To illustrate the point: above a photo of
The Old Door
and below a photo of the
The New Door. It still has to be stained and varnished but what a difference

CLOSED SEASON

2008-11-30T12:02:00.002Z

It was a fresh 'n' frosty morning on Speyside and I took this shot of the fishing hut on the opposite bank of the river from Norlaggan. All is still and silent until the start of the 2009 Salmon Season on 11th February

OUR LOSS IS THE WHISKY INDUSTRY'S GAIN

2008-11-04T09:45:00.001Z

Michael Mclean stayed with us for four months while he was working as a tour guide at The Glenlivet Distillery and then The Aberlour Distillery. Sadly he left last week at the end of the Summer Season for Speyside Distilleries. However, Micheal's potential has been acknowledged by a major Distilling Company and he has now relocated to London to work full-time with Chivas. After induction and training Michael will work in the USA as part of Chivas' world marketing team.

He will be missed at Norlaggan, having become part of the family. His easy going nature, pleasant manner and knowledge of Speyside Malt Whisky will, we feel certain, be a major asset to Chivas.

HASTE YE BACK!

WINTER REFURBISHMENT

2008-11-04T09:09:00.004Z

http://visitaberlour.blogspot.com/ MORE THAN A LICK OF PAINT!

Like most Hotels and Guest Houses we use the winter to re-decorate and carry out routine maintenance. This year however we are doing more that just sprucing the place up

We are planning a total refurbishment of bedroom 1 with complete re-decoration, fitting of new carpet and new soft furnishings & beddingOur dining room is also being refurbished in a style more in keeping with the building which is over 200 years old.

Although Norlaggan currently complies in every way with Fire Regulations we are taking the opportunity to fit a new integrated fire system with wireless smoke and heat detectors which will cover both guest accommodation and private living area. In associating with Grampain Fire & Rescue we have identified other improvements which, although not required, will improve safety. All rooms will be fitted with automatic door closure systems, a new solid hardwood door (from sustainable source) will be fitted on the main escape route. We have already purchased and installed new fire extinguishers throughout the property.

Norlaggan isn't just a place of business, it is our family home. We are pleased to go beyond what is required in order to protect the property and our guests in the event of fire.

We also have plans for the garden to make it more user friendly.

Last year we purchased a gas Bar BQ for the patio and also purchased a new lock shed for canoeist, cyclist and and walkers to store equipment. In the spring we will be undertaking major landscaping and planting in the garden

All this is on-top of our normal "care and maintenance" program

We hope that these improvements will reassure our guests and also enhance their experience in Speyside

Tourism Should Be Environmentally Friendly

2008-11-04T08:10:00.002Z

We have recently undertaken an "Environmental Audit" to determine what measures we could take to limit the impact our business has on the environment.

Norlaggan is situated in a designated "Site Of Special Scientific Interest" mainly because of the local wildlife in Speyside (including red squirrels, deer, pinemartins, fresh water mussels and of course salmon).

It seemed to us that we could do more to protect our local environment and reduce the carbon footprint of our business.

The following areas have been identified and acted upon

RECYCLING

ALL paper products are recycled

ALL vegetable waste is recycled

(we have installed two wormories and three compost bins in our garden)

ALL glass products are recycled

ALL cardboard is recycled

ALL metal waste is recycled

ALL plastic waste is recycled

Egg Boxes (about 350 per year) returned for reusing

REDUCTION OF CARBON EMISSIONS

Where possible we have installed low energy lighting

All rooms have been fitted with individual thermostats for heating

We now have an under cover drying areas which cuts down on Tumble Drying

Guests staying more than one night are given the option of new towels each day

All are now transported in reusable containers rather than plastic bags

Installation of additional chest freezer reduces number of shopping trips

Where possible we "grow our own" in the garden and two greenhouses

Guests have free use of bicycles for travelling locally

Where possible A5 paper used rather than A4

No Print advertising (no brochures, newspaper ads, magazine ads etc)

Where possible all consumables sourced locally to avoid transportation

New fire alarm system to eliminate the use of NicCad Batteries

Smaller vehicle acquired for business use

Greater thought given to reducing mileage by multi-tasking of vehicles

OTHER MEASURES

Where possible eliminated the use of aerosols

Where possible use natural cleaning materials rather than chemicals

Rain water is collected for use in garden and greenhouses

Use of Micro Fibre cleaning cloths to avoid use of chemical cleaners

Where possible electrical equipment fitting with automatic shut-down systems

Greater use made of electronic communication rather than postal services

THESE MEASURES HAVE REDUCED BY 73% THE AMOUNT OF WASTE GOING TO LAND-FILL

THESE MEASURES WILL REDUCE OUR CARBON EMISSIONS IN 2008/2009 SEASON BY 48%

Visit Scotland 2009

2008-11-04T07:54:00.003Z

Norlaggan has once again passed the Visit Scotland Quality Assured Inspection with a 3 Star rating. We were commended for improvements made over the last year including the addition of a third letting room, the fitting of Satellite TV in all rooms, High Standard of Redecoration and (perhaps most importantly) a continued high standard of cleanliness throughout.

Norlaggan is currently the ONLY Quality Assured accommodation provider in Aberlour. Check out our website at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/ for details of all our facilities and our present tarrif

Satellite Television Now In All Rooms

2008-11-04T07:43:00.002Z

At Norlaggan we are always trying to improve the facilities we offer our guests. The latest addition is the installation of Satellite T.V. in all our bedrooms. Each room has its own control box with 200 TV and radio programs. Rooms also have T.V.s with audio & video imputs to allow guests to review there VideoCam shots of Aberlour and Speyside direct from their cameras to TV. Just in case you didn't bring the necessary leads for connecting your camera to the TV we have a collection of leads covering just about every possible combination od connections.

As well as our free Wifi system we also have a desktop P.C. and two laptops for the use of guests to allow them to transfer their DVD fottage and still shots from their cameras on to USB memory cards or sticks (and we keep a stock of cards and sticks for sale just in case you run out of space.

2008-10-31T19:57:00.001Z

Just for a charnge we travelled from Speyside to Deeside and enjoyed a fews days in our caravan at Banchory. These are a few shots taken at Crathes Castle Gardens which were lovely in their Autumn Glory

BRAVEHEARTS FROM PRESTON

2008-10-31T19:53:00.005Z

It is pleasing to note that over the past few years the number of people using the River Spey for recreation (other than for fishing) has increased. Significantly far more people are using the river for Canoeing and Kayaking. These hardy souls from Preston certiainly picked a week for undertaking the Spey Descent. Snow, Frost Gale and Rain didn't deter them from making the river journey from Grantown to Speymouth.

Norlaggan is in a prime location for Canoeists and Kayakers. Boats are easily landed adjacent to our back garden with a path and gate allowing equipment to be easily transported for safe overnight storage. We also have secure storage, under cover drying area, tumble dryers and drying room for wet clothing.

If you are considering doing the Spey Descent why not check availabilty at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/ We offer real time online booking so no waiting for replies to emails!

For hire of equipment see the BOOTS-N-PADDLES website

BBC 4 - Craigellachie To Ballindalloch

2008-10-13T21:07:00.009+01:00

BBC RAILWAY WALKS

THE SPEYSIDE WAY

Julia Bradbury takes a series of walks following the old tracks, overgrown cuttings and ancient viaducts of Britain's lost rail empire. Her first walking foray into Scotland has a very distinct flavour to it: whisky! The Speyside Way is one of Scotland's great walking routes, and between the villages of Craigellachie and Ballindaloch it follows the route of the railway that once served a remote area and a world famous drinks industry.

Norlaggan is pleased to have been associated with this Television Program. We contributed to pre-filming research, supplied transport for researchers and director and arranged cycle hire for those taking part

Although commissioned for the BBC this program is likely to be syndicated throughout the world.

Tune in on 23th October to see someting of Speyside. The walk featured passes by the back door of Norlaggan

VIEWING
23rd October
BBC 4
8.30pm

If you read this after the broadcast date you can still catch the program on the bbc iplayer at http://www.bbc.com/

2009 Spey Salmon Fishing Season

2008-10-13T19:38:00.005+01:00

The River Spey is the home of speycasting and one of Scotland's big four salmon rivers. It has the third largest drainage area after the Tay and Tweed and is the second longest after the Tay. However, its major attraction is its size and the strength of its stream - in the middle and lower river it falls on average 12 feet per mile - the greatest of any British river.

An interesting aside, the Spey, unlike most British rivers, does not have a sizeable town at its mouth. The river is snow fed from the Cairngorm Mountains and in a good year this can mean the river staying high until early June.

The season opens on the 11th February and runs until 30th September. Anglers can expect to catch fish from the opening day onwards throughout the river, depending on the temperature and river heights.

Norlaggan stands on the banks of the Spey within the Aberlour Association Water which offers relatively inexpensive day and 6 day permits.

If you are planning a fishing trip to Speyside you can book your accommodation on-line and in real time at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/

Planning Speyfest 2009

2008-10-13T19:28:00.003+01:00

Organisers will hold a meeting in November in preparation for Speyfest 2009. Committee members are keen to hear ideas on how to develop the festival on the back of their most successful event ever in 2008.

There was a record breaking 40% rise in ticket sales, boosted by performances from big name acts including Eddi Reader and Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

The committee is anxious to hear from anyone who has suggestions and ideas for next year's festival which will take place from 6th to 9th August at various venues around Fochabers in Speyside.

New Mountain Bike Playground In Moray

2008-10-13T19:12:00.004+01:00

Mountain Bikers now have more reason than ever to head for Moray. Gollowing the success of the Moray Monster Trails at Ben Aigen a brand new 116 acre site has now been opened at Sanquhar Woodlands in Foress. Chris Piper, chairman of the Forres Community Woodland Trust said: "We have gone out our way to ensure the trails and technical features were designed to the highest standards and we are delighted with the result.

Norlaggan has been accredited as a "Cyclists Welcome" accommodation provider. With the Moray Monster Trails only 3 miles away and the new Sanquhar Woodland Trails just 25 miles away Norlaggan is an ideal base for "pedal-heads" planning a short break in Moray

Lufthansa To Fly Direct To Inverness

2008-10-13T18:57:00.005+01:00

Anew direct link between Germany and Inverness is likely to be confirmed within the next few weeks. Highlands and Islands airports Ltd. has said it expects to confirm the twice weekly service between Dusseldorf and the Highland Capital before the end of October.

The new service will certainly be welcomed by German Whisky enthusiasts planning a trip to Speyside. A direct bus service operates from the terminal to Elgin and a short local bus trip (about 14 miles) will deliver visitors to the very heart of the Malt Whisky trail.

If you would like further information on how to get to Aberlour from any of the airports or seaports please feel free to email help@norlaggan.co.uk

Wild Brown Trout Fishing

2008-10-13T11:27:00.004+01:00

Speyside is best known for Salmon Fishing on the Spey but there are also lots of places where the keen angler can fish for Wild Brown Trout. Remember that no rod license is required in Scotland and that Wild Brown Trout is a FREE fish so no permit charges. The only restriction is the closed season from 6th October to 15th March

Why not book at short stay at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/ and try it out. Ken, who is himslef a keen angler (he claims to be an expert but then he would) will be happy to offer advice and share local knowledge.

Christmas Menu At Baxters Of Fochabers

2008-10-13T08:59:00.003+01:00

Enjoy Christmas Lunch (daily from 29th November) or Christmas Dinner (Fridays & Saturdays from 29th November) in the Signature Tearoom at the Baxters complex in Fochabers, a 15 minute drive from Norlaggan.

Baxters are also running ookery Demos with George McIvor, Chairman of the Masterchefs of Great Britain, on 7th Nov, 5th Dec, 11 Dec and 12th December

For details of Christmas Lunches, Christmas Dinners and Cokkery Demos visit www.baxters.com or telephone 01343 820666

Why not make a visit to Baxters part of your Winter Break at Norlaggan

To book go to www.norlaggan.co.uk

Aberlour Distillery Low Season Tours

2008-10-13T08:10:00.004+01:00

For the Whisky enthusiast visitng Speyside a tour of Aberlour Distillery should definently be on the list of things to see and do.

Unlike many of the Distilleries Aberlour remains open for tours during the winter months. The tours, which last for approximately 2 hours including a season in the tasting room where visitors sample 6 full measures of whisky from the Aberlour range. The enthusiast can also hand fill there own personal bottle of Cask Strength Whisky to takr home

OPENING HOURS 2008/2009

From 3rd November to 20th March
Monday - Friday Tours At 9.30am and 4pm
Closed 19th December - 6th January

Maximum Of 16 Per Tour
Audio Visual Presentation
Guided Tour Of Distillery
Tutored Nosing And Tasting
Hand-fill Your Own Bottle Of Cask Strength
Tour Takes Approx 2 Hours
Admission £10
BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Norlaggan B&B is located about 5 minutes walk from Aberlour Distillery
Why not combine a tour of the distillery with one of our winter breaks

FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND REAL-TIME ONLINE BOOKING GO TO
www.norlaggan.co.uk

Spirit Of Speyside Whisky Festival 2009

2008-10-05T08:15:00.006+01:00

The climax of the 2009 Whisky Festival will be

"Spirit Of Speyside – A Celebration”

It will embrace the heritage, folklore and

culture of the River Spey, Speyside and its people.

Saturday May 9th in Alice Littler Park, Aberlour
Beside the River Spey

Capacity 1,500 +

Covered Tiered Seating for over 1,000

Food Court with emphasis on local produce and tented seating area
Fabulous cast of leading artists in their field supported by local performers

Bands, Trumpet fanfares, music, song and dance

Ticket Price Options

Covered Tiered Seating for over 1,000

Food Court with emphasis on local produce

Tented seating area

Fabulous cast of leading artists supported by talented local performers

Bands, Trumpet fanfares, music, song and dance
BOOK EARLY FOR
THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL 2008
BOOK ONLINE AT http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/

VIDEO - Old Postcards Speyside & Aberlour

2007-11-24T08:48:00.000Z

This is a video presentation of some of some old postcards and photographs of Aberlour and the other villages of Speyside. To see a selection of videos from Speyside go to www.bestofspeyside.com

whisky aberlour speyside craigellachie dufftown whiskey malt spirit of speyside scotland scottish

VIDEO - The Angel's Share

2007-11-22T19:50:00.000Z

Whisky enthusiasts will know what the "Angle's Share" is . . but for others it is the amount of whisky lost by evaporation while whisky is maturing in the cask.

whisky whiskey speyside aberlour craigelachie noorlaggan

VIDEO - Craigellachie Bridge

2007-11-22T08:25:00.001Z

I filmed this one evening during the summer. Craigellachie Bridge (built by Thomas Telford) used to carry the main road between Grantown and Elgin but has now been replaced by a modern bridge over the Spey. It must have been fun driving articulated lorries back and forth from the Whisky Distilleries to the bottling plants

WHISKY TRIVIA Part 3

2007-11-16T10:18:00.000Z

Whisky, one of the world’s largest spirits, has a history of its own. The name ‘whisky’ itself is a variant on the phrase ‘water of life’ indicting spirits. This word, in various spellings, is found today in some Scandinavian countries, and the French eau-de-vie translates in the same way. Rendered in Irish and Scottish Gaelic, the term becomes uisge beatha or usquebaugh among other spellings. It eventually was mangled into the half anglicized whisky.

The oldest of today’s distilleries date from the 1700s. In the 1700s and early 1800s, production was small and irregular, and the notion of ‘brands’ or ‘trademarks’ was unknown in any industry.

Whisky was sold by the cask to country grocers and wine merchants. Johnnie Walker was one such a shopkeeper, George Ballantine another whereas the Chivas brothers were partners in a shop. These merchants dealt with the lack of consistency or volume by creating their own house vattings, and these became brands. John Dewar, who went into the business in 1806, was the first person to sell branded whisky in bottles.

The oldest rock through which a distillery’s spring water source flows is over 800 million years old and found on the Isle of Islay.

So you believe in being ‘the real McCoy’? Do you know where the well-known phrase was originally coined? It was first used in reference to Scotch whisky smuggled into the USA during Prohibition by Captain Bill McCoy. During Prohibition, Scotch whisky could be legally obtained through a doctor, but only for ‘medical’ purposes.

Queen Victoria, one of the few responsible for creating a demand for Scotch whisky outside Scotland, used to enjoy a daily dram in her tea.

The French drink more Scotch whisky than Cognac. This is because of a wine louse that wiped out all the French vineyards in 1880 and Scotch manufacturers took this opportunity to flood France with Scotch. And that has been the case ever since.

The proof of Scotch whisky (alcoholic strength) used to be tested by using gunpowder. The evaporation of whisky in oaken casks is called the 'Angel's Share'.

A peg of whisky contains only 104 calories - less than a standard glass of wine or half pint of beer.

Although not a cure, but definite aid to combat a heavy cold, there is nothing that could beat hot Scotch whisky toddy!

The most expensive bottle of spirits ever sold in the world is a bottle of aged Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

The word ‘whisky’ is spelt differently around the world. While it is conventional to pronounce Scotch without an ‘e’, the invigorates from Ireland and the USA are spelt ‘whiskey’.

WHISKY QUIZ

2007-11-16T10:09:00.001Z

Came Across This Whisky Quiz - Why not have a go!
(answers can be found on our website at www.norlaggan.co.uk )

1. What are the four categories of Scotch?

2. Scotch is matured in casks made of what kind of wood?

3. What is the minimum amount of time Scotch must age in the cask?

4. What is the primary grain that Scotch is made from?

5. The descriptors single or blended refer to what?

6. In 1831 what major change to Scotch took place?

7. Why did the knowledge of distilling begin to spread in the 16th Century?

8. What is the Angel's Share?

9. What is the average normal capacity of a hogshead whisky cask?

10. What is Scotch called until it fully matures?

11. What Gaelic term is the origin of the word whisky?

12. In addition to production techniques and ingredients, what etymological difference separates the American and Scottish liquors?

13. Approximately how many brands of Scotch are sold world wide?

14. In 2005 how many cases of Scotch were sold?

15. Scotch is what percent of the United Kingdom's food & drink exports?

16. What Country is the #1 market for Scotch in dollar terms?

17. What Country is the #1 market for Scotch in volume?

18. When did the UK government first establish a legal definition for Scotch?

19. How many Scotch distilleries are there in Scotland.

20. True or False, Scotch Whisky matures and improves in the bottle.

WHISKY TRIVIA Part 2

2007-11-16T10:06:00.001Z

Glenmorangie is the biggest selling malt in Scotland.

The Famous Grouse is the biggest selling whisky within Scotland.

Bruichladdich is Scotland's most westerly distillery.

Bladnoch is the most southerly of Scotland's distilleries.

Highland Park is the most Northern Scotch Whisky Distillery in the World.

Glenugie was the easternmost distillery in Scotland.

Pulteney is the most northern distillery in the Highlands.

Strathisla is the oldest malt whisky distillery in the Highlands of Scotland. Founded : Est. 1786 / OBAN is also one of the oldest stills in Scotland. Founded : 1794
Glenturret is one of Scotland's oldest malt whisky distillery.

Bowmore is reputed to be the oldest legal distillery on Islay.

Tomatin Distillery Compagny's is one of the highest in Scotland and it is also the largest capacity distillery in Scotland.

Edradour is the smallest distillery in Scotland - With three people to run the entire operation.

Glenfarclas is in Guinness Book of Records for the strongest malt whisky available in a distillery's official bottling.

Glenlivet is one of the most popular malts in the world.

Glenfiddich is the largest selling single malt in the world.

Johnnie Walker Red label is the world's largest selling Scotch Whisky.

Johnnie Walker Black label is the world's best selling
deluxe whisky.

WHISKY TRIVIA part 1

2007-11-16T10:04:00.000Z

Speyside is home to nearly 50 malt whisky distilleries - more than half of all the distilleries in Scotland.
No distillery on Speyside takes the water with which the whisky is distilled directly from the River Spey - they rely on springs and burns [or streams] instead.
The Glenlivet is the malt whisky which started it all by giving its name to the entire Speyside region.
Cardhu is the only Speyside malt whisky not to have used the appellation "Glenlivet" at any time. All the other distilleries in Speyside have done so.
Only 3 out of the Top Ten best selling single malts do not come from Speyside.
Best selling Speyside malts include Glenfiddich, The Glenlivet, Glen Grant, Cardhu, Macallan, Aberlour, and Balvenie.
Glenfiddich is the best selling single malt in the world.
The most popular malt whisky in the US is The Glenlivet
The Glenlivet was the first single malt to be exported to the US when Prohibition ended in 1934.
France's most popular single malt is Aberlour.
Glen Grant is the top selling Scotch whisky in Italy, not just the top selling malt whisky!
Cardhu is the top selling malt whisky in Spain.
Many Speyside malts are essential components of well-known blended Scotch whiskies like Chivas Regal, Ballentine's and the Johnnie Walker range.
The highest distillery in Scotland is Braeval.
The most picturesque distillery in Scotland is Strathisla, the oldest working distillery in the Highlands of Scotland, founded in 1786.
Longmorn Distillery is widely regarded as Speyside's best kept secret as blenders covet this high quality malt whisky.
Cask strength malt whiskies can be up to 60% alcohol by volume. Examples include Aberlour a'bunadh whose name means "the original" in Gaelic and Glenfarclas 105, the which refers to the 'proof' strength of the whisky as opposed to ABV.
Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail, the only malt whisky trail in the world, brings together seven distilleries in Speyside as well as the Speyside Cooperage, all of which welcome visitors for most of the year. The distilleries are Benromach, Cardhu, Glenfiddich, Glen Grant Distillery and Garden, The Glenlivet, Strathisla and Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery.
At the time of the annual spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival in early May every year many more distilleries open their doors to visitors with a range of special events, tours and whisky tastings on offer.

VIDEO Monarch Of The Glen Country

2007-11-16T09:33:00.000Z

The Television Series "monarch Of The Glen" was filmed in Speyside. I have put together some stills photos to showcase Speyside, Strathspey and The Cairngorms. Hope you enjoy it

Book In Your Own Language

2007-11-16T08:55:00.001Z

In association with Active Hotels we now offer guests the facility to read more about Norlaggan and to book online using their own language.

So if you live in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Netherlands or Poland you can get the information you need without having to take a crash course in English.

We have inserted direct links on our home page at www.norlaggan.co.uk to Active Hotels so if you are planning visiting Aberlour to enjoy the fine Malt Whisky produced in Speyside it is now even easier to book

Distilleries within easy travelling distance of Norlaggan include:

The Macallan Aberlour Glenfiddich Balvenie Mortlach
Kininvie Glenfarclas Cardhu Knockando Glen Rothes
Glen Moray Cragganmore Dalhuine (and another 32)

PLEASE NOTE: We still (please forgive the pun) have rooms available for the Spirit Of Speyside Whisky Festival in May 2008. With over 200 events on offer for the Whiskey enthusiast it is the ideal time to visit Speyside. For more details about the Speyside Whisky Festivals go to www.spiritofspeyside.com

Aberlour Whisky - Distillery Tours

2007-11-12T09:07:00.000Z

aberlour whiskey whisky norlaggan bike hire speyside
Aberlour Distillery will again be continuing to run its excellent distillery tours during the winter months. The tours will operate as follows:

To 14th December 2007
Monday - Friday
10.30am & 2pm

22nd, 23rd, 29th & 30th December 2007
10.30am & 2pm

7th January - 14th March 2008
Monday - Friday
10.30am & 2pm

From 17th March 2008
7 Days A Week
10.30am & 2pm

Norlaggan will remain open until 30th December (except Christmas Day) and after a short break for refurbishment will open for the 2008 season on 14th February

For further details of he Aberlour Distillery tours see www.aberlour.com
To book accommodation at Norlaggan go to www.noraggan.co.uk
For details of other things to see and do in Aberlour go to www.vistaberour.com
For Mountain Bike Hire throughout Speyside see www.speysidebikes.com

Combined B&B Cycle Hire Breaks

2007-11-09T10:11:00.001Z

In Association With Speyside Bikes
We Now Offer An Inclusive B&B/Cycle Hire package

Day 1
Arrive Aberlour after 4pm - B&B At Norlaggan

Day 2
Full Day Hire Of Bikes* - B&B At Norlaggan

Day 3
Full Day Hire Of Bikes* - B&B At Norlaggan

Day 4
Depart Aberlour By 10am

(*2 Full Days Hire Of Fixed Frame Trail Bike (including helmet, lock, back-pack & bottled water)

APRIL - SEPTEMBER
£90 per Person
(based on 2 people sharing twin/double room)

OCTOBER - MARCH
£75 Per Person
(based on 2 people sharing twin/double room)

For further details visit www.norlaggan.co.uk
Speyside Bikes Site can be found at www.speysidebikes.com

The Great Scottish Sausage Search

2007-11-07T17:00:00.000Z

We are currently on a quest to find the best locally produced butchers sausage for use in the B&B. Something with a bit of spice, but not too much. Lean, meaty and a good colour. Suitable for grilling and frying.

If you live in Moray, Aberdeenshire, Speyside or anywhere else within 50 miles of Aberlour and would like to recommend a butcher we would be pleased to hear from you. Being in the heart of Malt Whisky Country we are used to "Tasting Notes" so we will be publishing our notes on the Sausages we sample.

Does anyone know of a whisky flavoured sausage . . . if you are a butcher why not create one. It would be sure to go down with the many visitors to the North East of Scotland who come to do the Malt Whisky Trail

Visit Scotland Quality Assured Scheme 2008

2007-11-07T16:41:00.000Z

Norlaggan has once again passed the Visit Scotland Quality Assured Inspection with a 3 Star rating. We were commended for improvements made over the last year including Wifi Internet Access, Laptop Computer For Guests' Use, High Standard of Redecoration and (perhaps most importantly) a continued high standard of cleanliness throughout.

Norlaggan is currently the ONLY Quality Assured accommodation provider in Aberlour. Check out our website at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/ for details of all our facilities and our present tarrif

New Office Up And Running

2007-11-04T11:18:00.000Z

The office at Norlaggan has now been completely refurbished and a new Wifi computer system has been installed. Guests can now access the internet via their portable device from any room in the house

We also have a new online booking system Guests can now book on-line and get an immediate confirmation via email that their room(s) have been reserved. As from 1st January we will also be able to accept payment at the time of booking via all major credit/debit cards.

Check out our new booking system at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/

Kininvie Whisky First Bottling "Hazlewood"

2007-11-01T19:02:00.000Z

There has been a lot of debate in various Whisky Forums about my post showing a bottle of Kininvie Malt along with a scan of the certificate of authentication. Just to prove the point I'm publishing here the photo and scan. If anyone wants to know more contact me via our website at http://www.norlaggan.co.uk/

Start Of Winter Refurbishment

2007-10-24T18:29:00.000+01:00

Today is the start of our winter refurbishment. First task is to strip the hideous magnolia painted wall paper in the passage leading to the back garden. Ros (wearing her famous " I've Been Tangoed" fleece) sets to work this morning with steam stripper and is even foregoing the X-Factor this evening in order to get the job finished.

WE HAVE A LOT TO GET THROUGH THIS WINTER

Back Oh House
Refurbish Office
Refurbish Downstairs Hall And Stairs
Refurbish Kitchen
Finish Utility Room (started 2 years ago)
Complete Refurbishment Of Downstairs Bedroom to Scottish Tourist Board Standard
Redocorate Front Hall, Staors and Upper Landing
Painting And Decorating Of Dining Room

Check back to see hpw we are getting on!

Family Friendly With Bouncy Castle

2007-09-17T19:18:00.000+01:00

In keeping with our Family Friendly policy we now have a bouncy castle in the garden and also a family size BarBQ and dining set. Our large family room is big enough for Mum, Dad and 2 Kids and with reductions for multiple nights Norlaggan is an ideal location for a family Break with lots to do and see in and around the village