David Stirk: Pioneering Spirits; A Tour of Scotlands 21st Century Whisky Distilleries

More distilleries were built in Scotland in the first two decades of this millennium than in the previous century.

A new movement gripped the Scotch whisky industry: small to medium-sized distilleries, often independently owned and fiercely singular in their vision and strategy, all striving to make extraordinarily good whisky. But have no fear; this is not a whisky book. There are scant tasting notes and little to no information about bottlings and releases. Nor does this book attempt to sway you one way or the other on which whisky to buy. Instead, this is a jolly jaunt, a cheerful trek around all four corners of Scotland, taking in the sights, sounds and pulse of the people, wildlife and customs. Having lived in Scotland for most of his adult life, industry veteran David Stirk considers much of life in this small country and how the world-conquering drink, known everywhere - except in its home country - as Scotch, slots into the story.

Serving suggestion: Best enjoyed in a comfortable chair with a glass of whisky, preferably from Scotland. Water, ice, or mixer are optional and not frowned upon. For best results, read outdoors when the sun is shining or indoors when it is raining.

David Stirk has spent over 25 years making, branding, bottling, selling, writing and talking about whisky. Much of that time has also been spent sampling it. He is the author of “The Malt Whisky Guide”, 2002, “The Distilleries of Campbeltown”, 2004, and “Independent Scotch – The History of Independent Bottlers”, 2023. If not busy visiting a distillery or whisky festival, David can be found on the golf course or in his office reading Non-Fiction – primarily historical. He does indeed enjoy the taste of whisky, even the smoky ones, and can never answer which is his favourite – although if you’re buying, it’s the one in your glass cabinet or on the bar’s top shelf in the oak box.

English: 210 pages; Softcover