To mark World Whisky Day on Saturday, the local authority has launched four international editions of an Aberdeenshire whisky guide.
The ‘Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire’ is now available in German, Portuguese, French and Chinese – aimed at enticing international fans of one of Scotland’s most popular exports to the north-east
The guide – launched by Aberdeenshire Provost Jill Webster today at Glenglassaugh Distillery near Portsoy – highlights the lesser-known whisky producers in the region.
The comprehensive booklet explores the area’s lost and non-operational distilleries, and includes a host of whisky tasting notes.
Provost Webster said: “Many people will be surprised at the number of distilleries in Aberdeenshire, offering a smaller, more intimate and authentic experience, allowing visitors to see first-hand – often from people who work there – what goes into making Scotland’s national drink.
“We are extremely fortunate to live and work in such a fascinating part of the country and I hope that the new translations of the guide will encourage more visitors from around the world to sample all that we have to offer as well.
“For those local to Aberdeenshire, why not take the opportunity to visit a local distillery in celebration of World Whisky Day, which was, after all, founded by a local entrepreneur.”
The guide has been well received by the tourism industry and the German language edition was sponsored by a tour company from the continent.
The Portuguese, French and Chinese versions of the guide have beenprinted as part of the council’s push to promote Aberdeenshire as a tourist destination.
Provost Webster added: “The new foreign language translations will also make the distilleries in the area even more accessible to overseas visitors.”
World Whisky Day was established in 2012 by Blair Bowman. He said: “Now in its fourth year, the reach and popularity of World Whisky Day continues to grow and I think it’s great that Aberdeenshire is marking the occasion by continuing to promote its unique offering of the ‘Secret Malts’ trail.”
The ‘Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire’ is also available to download online.