In the world of Scottish culture and literature, Robert Burns is known as an icon similar to what Shakespeare is to the English. To honour this famous Scottish poet, Scots created Burns Night. On 25 January, they celebrate not only his birthday, but also the deep-rooted Scottish traditions he so masterfully embodied. This celebration includes kilts, bagpipes, haggis, and of course: premium malt whisky.
Who is Robert Burns?
Robert Burns was born on 25 January 1749 in Ayrshire, Scotland. He was not only a talented writer, but also a farmer with deep roots in Scottish culture. His poetry, including the famous "Auld Lang Syne", captures the spirit of his time and remains an inspiration to many.
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Burns Night and what it entails
On 25 January, Scots annually celebrate Burns Night in honour of Robert Burns. Nine friends of Robert's called this holiday into being. They organised the first Burns Night dinner in July 1801, five years after his death. This dinner served as a tribute to Burns' life and work and was an immediate success. The group decided to celebrate it annually on his birthday, which was 25 January. By now, the whole of Scotland knows this tradition and it is an established Scottish holiday. During the celebration, friends and family gather to enjoy a traditional Scottish banquet. The highlight of the celebration is the "Address to a Haggis". This is a ceremonial recitation of a poem by Burns followed by the cutting of a Haggis, a signature Scottish dish. Of course, Scotch whisky is not to be missed, an integral part of Scottish culture.
Link with whisky
Robert Burns was an epicurean who thoroughly enjoyed the good life. Scotch whisky was an essential element in this. The poet liked to be inspired by both the everyday and his passion for fine Scotch whisky. His world-famous poem "Scotch Drink" illustrates his profound love for this noble drink. In it, he compares the sensory experience of drinking whisky to the Scottish landscape. This affinity for whisky took on lasting significance in the celebration of Burns Night. After the recitation of "Address to a Haggis", whisky glasses are traditionally raised.
Burns' fondness for whisky even led to his own whisky brand - Robert Burns. Both the Robert Burns malt and blended varieties are available in our webshop as well as in our physical shop in Zolder, including quiver. So a huge added value for true lovers of the poet.
Cranachan: a sweet ending to the evening
Those who regularly read our blogs know that we have a weakness for desserts. Especially if they contain a hint of alcohol! For those Dry January participants who do not want to (completely) break the challenge, we have an interim solution for you. You see, there is a dessert that is inextricably linked to Robert Burns: Cranachan. This delicacy, infused with whisky, is the perfect end to an evening of Scottish traditions.
Ingredients
- 200g fresh raspberries
- 100g oatmeal flakes
- 400ml whipped cream
- 3 tablespoons of Scotch whisky (try a Robert Burns Malt)
Instructions
- Toast the oatmeal flakes in a dry pan until golden brown. Let them cool down.
- Whip the cream until stiff and gently fold in the honey.
- Add the whisky to the whipped cream and mix well.
- Now comes the fun part! Get out the glasses and build up the layers: start with a layer of raspberries, add a layer of whipped cream mixture and sprinkle some toasted oatmeal on top.
- Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, ending with raspberries on top.
- Place the glasses in the fridge to let it all set.
Slainte mhath!
Marketing • Blogger
As a creative jack-of-all-trades in the marketing world, I also bring that imaginative flair to my drink choices. Whether on a night out, sunny vacation or social gathering with girlfriends, I'm always in my element with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Cocktails have stolen my heart because of the endless possibilities to experiment and explore. My favorite cocktail of the moment is the "Lazy Red Cheeks"! A delicious cocktail using vodka as a base. I love vodka because it mixes perfectly with non-alcoholic drinks. My favorite spirit? Rum!
