If there’s one thing better than enjoying a delicious, organic brew, it’s being able to tell a few tales about where it came from as you imbibe; a strategy that’s bound to make you an instant hit with fellow drinkers!
For those who really appreciate their beer, feeling a connection to the drink’s origins is important, and Black Isle Brewery in the Scottish Highlands really understands that desire for transparency. Set up by David Gladwin back in 1998 when the concept of organic beer virtually unknown, it’s a small and ‘intensely independent’ organic brewery with a planet-saving mission statement.
Showing a sense of humour we really relate to, Gladwin is adamant that he wants to dispel the “slightly cranky, no-knickered, tepee dwellers living off brown rice and lentils” image of the organic movement. His produce certainly helps further that cause, having won the SIBA (Society of Independent Brewers) “Champion Beer Of Scotland” award in 2009, a “highly commended” in the Soil Association’s Food Awards in 2009 and many more prestigious awards.
His brewery is set in an idyllic 18th century country house, which was found to have remnants of an older brewery when Godwin and his team came to renovate it. In keeping with his eagerness to involve customers in the brewing process from start to refreshing and tasty finish, he offers guided tours around the brewery all year round.
Black Isle’s ten varieties have something to offer drinkers of all palates: there are full-bodied, ruby-coloured ales for those who want a heartier beer, Belgian-style ‘blonde’ wheat beers for those who prefer their brew a little paler and some unusual blends including a heather honey beer. Each beer is certified organic, and packaged in recycled materials. So if you ever dreamed of a guilt-free pint, Black Isle may be the closest you’ll get!
Black Isle Beer is available via several stockists throughout the UK or direct from the brewery. You can find your nearest stockist on this map.
