Everything changed in 1823. In this episode, we witness the dramatic transformation from outlaws to entrepreneurs. We'll follow George Smith's brave decision to take the first legal licence despite death threats, explore how railways and blending revolutionised the industry, and see how Scottish whisky evolved from illicit craft into the legitimate business that would conquer global markets.

The 18th century transformed whisky-making into an act of rebellion. In this episode, we journey through the golden age of smuggling, meeting legendary figures like Magnus Eunson who outwitted Excise officers with extraordinary cunning. We'll explore how Culloden intensified resistance, why the 1784 Wash Act backfired spectacularly, and discover how entire communities united against enforcement - setting the stage for inevitable change.

Before legal distilleries existed, Scottish whisky was born in mystery and tradition. In this episode, we explore how medieval monks brought distillation knowledge from Ireland, transforming medicinal spirits into cultural cornerstone. We'll discover how this craft spread through Highland communities, with each region developing distinctive character. Finally, we examine the 1644 tax that ignited a conflict defining Scotland for centuries - the battle for its spirit had begun.

Scottish whisky has one of the most dramatic origin stories in the world of spirits. Monks and smugglers, rebellions and revolutions, outlaws who became entrepreneurs, and a spirit that survived everything from government oppression to global catastrophe. It's an epic tale spanning centuries, filled with larger-than-life characters and transformative moments that shaped not just an industry but Scottish culture itself.

Halloween’s over - it’s nearly Christmas!!! I know this is an unpopular opinion but I can’t wait for the start of November as it always signals the start of the run in to Christmas. Now, I'm not suggesting putting up your Christmas tree or wrapping presents just yet (and I think I might leave the Christmas playlist for another week or two) but as the nights draw in I do love to think about the best whiskies to enjoy on these long dark evenings. So below I've created what I think is a great shopping guide either for yourself or a loved one this festive season. Enjoy!

If you've spent any time reading whisky labels or reviews, you've probably seen the term "non-chill filtered" pop up repeatedly. Some distilleries trumpet it proudly on their bottles, while others quietly chill-filter their entire range without much fanfare. But what actually is chill filtration, and does it really matter? Let's dig into it.

In the world of whisky accessories, few items carry the timeless appeal and classic charm of a well-crafted hip flask. A perfect blend of form and function, the Wingback 100ml Black Steel Hip Flask stands out as a symbol of sophistication and style. In this review, we delve into the details of this compact yet striking accessory, exploring its design, materials, and overall performance…

Embarking on the world of whisky can be an exhilarating yet perplexing experience, especially when confronted with the intricate jargon of aroma and flavor. Fear not, for in this guide, I aim to unravel the mysteries behind the 'correct' protocol for tasting whisky and decode the myriad tastes and flavours that grace this exquisite spirit…