National Trust for Scotland archaeology work exploring illicit historic whisky production at Torridon, Wester Ross and the Mar Lodge Estate in Aberdeenshire
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THE findings of a major archaeological survey into illicit whisky production at Torridon and the Mar Lodge Estate will be presented at a talk early next month.
The Pioneering Spirit project has seen the National Trust for Scotland join forces with The Glenlivet distillery to delve into the early history of making uisge beatha – "the water of life" – in the Highlands.
A free illustrated talk on the project will be given on Monday, August 8 from 7pm to 9pm in Torridon Community Centre by the trust's archaeologists Derek Alexander and Dr Daniel Rhodes.
The two experts will present the fascinating results of archaeological surveys and digs at two estates cared for by the trust, Torridon and Mar Lodge in the Cairngorms. They will also reveal how the original and illegal distillery was unearthed at The Glenlivet in Speyside, before founder George Smith made the enterprise legal in 1824.
Excavations at Torridon in Wester Ross included work at Lagaidh Dubh and also at Allt na Tuill Bhain. This work has benefitted from research by local historian Murdoch MacDonald for his 2011 publication on the history of illicit whisky-making in the area, The Battle of the Black Pot.
The following day, Tuesday, August 9, people are invited to "walk the talk" on a guided walk with Trust head ranger Paul Bolton and members of the trust’s archaeology team.
Paul said: "We will visit the illicit whisky bothy and malt drying kiln at Allt na Tuill Bhain, above Glen Torridon. On the way back, if time allows, we will also visit Uamh an Oir, the Cave of Gold – which may also have been used to hide contraband!" The walk, from 10am to 2pm, is around 5km and covers some rough and steep terrain. Please wear walking boots and clothing suitable for the weather. Meet at the Countryside Centre."
There is no charge but would-be participants should email pbolton@nts.org.uk to reserve a place. For further information on Pioneering Spirit, visit: nts.org.uk/whisky.
