Nobody knows who first conceived the simple but ever wondrous idea of converting the humble barley grain into spirit but all agree it has been a collective gift from our Celtic forefathers. Perhaps they knew only too well that after a cheerful summer there comes the ice and snow of winter. Their foremost guard to ensure survival was the 'water of life - Uisge Beatha - Scotch whisky.

Lochranza Distillery, Arran

Distillation in early times was an art, cultivated as much in remote highland glens as in devout Lowland abbeys. The earliest recordings of this ancient activity are attributed to Friar John Cor of Lindores Abbey in Fife who converted 'eight bolls of barley malt' into aqua vitae for his sovereign, King James IV.

Now, more than 500 years on, Scotch whisky has established itself as a gift to discerning connoisseurs throughout the world. With care it improves from birth and traces its original line through the original elements of creation - fire and water. It can be enjoyed as a single malt and yet will blend easily with brotherly spirits from across Scotland. It will never fail to offer a challenge to those most wise parts of the human body - the senses of taste and satisfaction.

We hope you are encouraged to sample the marvellous range of flavours and styles, then perhaps take time to visit the source. Then you will realise how profound, through the medium of malt whisky, is Scotland's contribution to humanity.

Glengoyne Distillery