Information

Reviewed in the Stirling Directory

Regular Events

Whisky Tasting:

Wine Tasting:

Storytelling:

Scottish Quiz

General Knowledge Quiz

Introduction

Among his other talents, John is also well known for his knowledge of both whisky & wine. His weekly tasting sessions at The Forest Hills Hotel are always well attended and enjoyed by both locals and guests alike.

A whisky or wine tasting can add a unique and memorable experience to whatever celebration you are planning.

So, whether it be a birthday, wedding or any other event, why not contact him now for further details.

In the meantime, why not have your taste buds tempted by his monthly whisky and wine reviews:

Whisky review

The Edradour Distillery

This is just the time of year to settle down with a good book and a decent dram. The story of "Whisky Galore", written by Compton Mackenzie, tells the true story of the foundering of S S Politician, laden with both liquid and solid gold, on the rocks of Eriskay, in 1941. There were 22,000 cases of Edradour whisky on board, bound for America, some 24,000 bottles being rescued by the islanders before the authorities turned up.

One 84 year old crofter had his state pension cut as punishment for involvement in the escapade. A small price to pay. Nineteenth century Perthshire crofters were responsible for the Edradour whisky in the first place, this being the last of the original farm-based distilleries still working.

Edradour Distillery story continued.

Previous whisky reviews.

Wine review

Pinotage

With weather like we have all been experiencing, South Africa would be a good place to be. Even if you are not quite able to fit in a visit to those sunny climes you could enjoy that warmth from a bottle of red Pinotage wine. This is definitely the signature grape of South Africa, and a variety they actually produced for themselves. Thankfully they are more than willing to share this pleasure with the wider world. Realising that Cinsaut produced a first class blending wine, bringing the best out of the other varieties being used, Professor Perold, Stellenbosch University, took thing a stage further. In 1925, whilst holding the Chair of Viticulture, A I Perold actually crossed Cinsaut with Pinot Noir, one of the great black grapes. This was just the start.

Pinotage story continued.

Previous wine reviews.

Reviews

'Red Sky at Night'

"This working shepherd writes beautifully about his animals, about the wildlife, trees and flowers which surround him at all times, and he paints an unforgettable picture of his glorious corner of western Scotland." (James Herriot)

"An excellent and informative book....not only an account of a shepherd's year but also a diary of a naturalist." (Times Literary Supplement)

"Powerful and evocative...a book which brings vividly to life the landscape and wildlife. " (Scottish Field)

'Loch Lomond and The Trossachs - an A-Z'

"John Barrington knows more about the history of this area than any other man alive." (Tom Weir)

"A man with a passion for the natural and cultural heritage of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs." (William Dalrymple, Chief Executive of the National Park Authority)