Whisky honoured at Scottish Parliament

By BRIAN FERGUSON
Published on 29/11/2012 13:26

THE rich heritage of Scotland’s national drink is being celebrated in a major new exhibition at the Scottish Parliament.

Visitors to Holyrood will be able to gain an insight into every aspect of the whisky production process.

An array of images and artefacts collected from industry producers and enthusiasts has been brought together for the display in the parliament’s main hall, which opens tomorrow.

Rare postcards, old films, bottles from different decades and even rarely-seen recipes for whisky feature in the exhibition, as well as a mini pot still, mash tun and spirit safe.

‘Scotch Whisky: From Grain To Glass’ will explore efforts to protect the “Scotch” brand over the last century as well as classic advertising campaigns.

Also featured in the exhibition are the people who make Scotch whisky. Visitors can hear maltsters, coopers, master blenders, marketing professionals and many other employees talking about their skills and passions in recordings made especially for the exhibition.

The free exhibition is being staged by the Scotch Whisky Association to mark the centenary of its foundation.

Gavin Hewitt, chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, said: “Everyone, from whisky aficionados to novices will learn something new from the Scotch Whisky: From Grain to Glass exhibition.

“Scotch whisky’s rich past is showcased, highlighting its position as an iconic Scottish product and demonstrating how vital Scotch is to the country’s economy and society throughout history and now.

“Last year, exports reached a record £4.23 billion last year and the industry directly employs more than 10,000 across Scotland. For the last 100 years, we have been committed to promoting and protecting Scotch whisky . We plan to do so for the next 100 years and beyond.”