This weekend it’s time to prepare for one of the most cherished Scottish traditions: Burns Night. This annual celebration, held on the 25th of January, honours the life and work of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard, with an evening of poetry, camaraderie, and, of course, exceptional whisky.
From its humble beginnings in 1801, when friends of Robert Burns gathered to commemorate his legacy, Burns Night has evolved into a timeless celebration of Scotland’s culture and creativity. At its heart is the iconic Burns Supper, a feast that includes traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, complemented by a dram (or two) of Scotch whisky to toast the immortal memory of the poet.
The evening begins with the Selkirk Grace, a heartfelt prayer that sets the tone for the night:
“Some hae meat and canna eat,
And some can eat that want it,
But we hae meat and we can eat,
And sae the Lord be thankit.”
From there, the festivities unfold, with recitations of Burns’ works, hearty meals, and toasts. The night culminates with a rousing rendition of “Auld Lang Syne,” a song that echoes the universal themes of friendship and reflection.
Burns Night is an opportunity to explore Scotch whiskies that embody the heritage and craftsmanship of Scotland. Whether you prefer a single malt, blended whisky, or something rare, the following recommendations showcase the diversity of Scotch:
- Port Dundas: A historic grain whisky distillery founded in 1811, with rare expressions brought back to life in recent years.
- Ben Nevis: A Highland distillery producing old-style whiskies, rich in tradition and character.
- Ardmore: Known for its balance of honey and smoky notes, a Highland gem for the discerning palate.
- Balmenach: A rare Speyside malt with sherry cask ageing that offers a rich and complex profile.
- Glen Moray: A lighter Speyside single malt with fruit-forward notes.
- Glenburgie: Producing limited releases of a golden malt that’s highly sought after.
- Benriach: This distillery’s eclectic casks bring unique honey and toasted oak flavours to life.
A Legacy Worth Preserving
Burns Night also provides a moment to reflect on the legacy of Scotch whisky. Adding rare casks to your collection not only preserves Scotland’s rich distilling heritage but also connects you to the artistry and passion of whisky-making. From historic distilleries to limited releases, whisky collecting is an art that transforms each cask into a tangible piece of history.
For those with an eye toward the future, whisky casks hold a unique place in collections, offering both aesthetic and cultural value. By collecting, you contribute to the preservation of Scotland’s traditions and ensure that the spirit of craftsmanship continues for generations to come.
As Burns himself once said, “Freedom and whisky gang thegither.” May this Burns Night be a celebration of both.
*Capital at risk. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Casks and bottles in photos shown are for display purposes only and are not the actual casks or bottles being sold.