To mark the 900th anniversary of the Royal Burgh of Stirling, Forth Valley Food and Drink has launched a series of four captivating short documentaries that delve into the lesser-known stories of Stirling’s rich food and drink heritage. Rosalind wanted to learn more about this series so spoke to Lesley Wilkinson who researched and commissioned the films and Murray Cook, Stirling Council's archaeologist to learn more. Lesley talks about why the films came about and some of the amazing finds they made in the process of researching the films including about a world-record breaking grape vine. Stirling Castle and Bannockburn House feature in the series as do fascinating stories about how Bonnie Prince Charlie was treated for an injury there using a posset. Funded by Scotland Food and Drink’s Regional Food Fund, the films uncover a range of unexpected tales including how the first dram was drunk there by James IV in 1494 and how the first firework was also set off there. Murray also shares stories of beer witches and those being accused of witchcraft and the sad fate they met. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's that time of year again when team Scran cannot resist the temptation of the world's biggest arts festival. Rosalind went along earlier this week to enjoy a foodie's day out at the festival and bring you some top shows to consider if you're heading to Edinburgh this August. First up she hit C Venue for coffee, a croissant and Shakespeare for Breakfast. This show has been performed at the Edinburgh Fringe festival for 33 years. Rosalind chats to Mary Gensich, Company Manager for C Theatre and Clare Louise Roberts, one of the performers, to hear about this year's show. Then for something completely different Rosalind went to A History of Fortune Cookies performed by Sean Wai Keung. With an audience of ten this was a really intimate show where Sean shared his story about the influence of his Chinese grandparents all while baking the audience their own fortune cookies. For many the festival is all about the Fringe and the laughs, Daniel Downie definitely brought those in his whisky-soaked show Daniel Downie: Dram(a)s which was Rosalind's third show of the day.  Whilst many may start an evening at the festival with a glass of wine or 5 Rosalind chose to finish up with In Pour Taste - a wine tasting from Australian comedians Ethan Cavanagh and Sweeney Preston who have teamed up with local wine experts to produce a raucous one hour and 15 mins of entertainment (and some wine education).  Make sure to check out The Scotsman's coverage of the festivals to be right up to date with reviews and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode we're coming at food and drink from a slightly different angle. Word of Mouth (WOM) is an exhibition of new artworks and writing exploring our relationship to food, cooking and kitchens. With work spanning across print, writing, textile, collage, and paint, Word of Mouth encourages us to consider how much food and cooking inform and sustain us in our everyday lives. Word of Mouth is currently running at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Rosalind went along to check it out and talk to curator Maisie Wills about how it all came about. They look at some of the works in detail and give you a flavour for what you can expect from the exhibition. You can find out more about Word of Mouth on The Scottish Storyelling Centre website. It is free and unticketed and runs from now until the 20th of April, daily from 10-6pm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Scran, Rosalind is joined by The Great British Bake Off winner, Peter Sawkins. Peter discusses how he got into baking, Scottish influences in his bakes, what it was like being on the show and his new role as an ambassador for the new campaign from Scotland Food and Drink titled Scotland brings so much to the table.Chef Barry Bryson also joins Rosalind on a call to discuss the importance of seasonal produce, how best to shop and cook with local, seasonal produce as well as revealing who his dream dinner party guests would be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Giselle is a co founder and Director of Bellfield Brewery, a microbrewery in Edinburgh’s Abbeyhill that produces exclusively gluten free and vegan beer. Started in late 2015, Bellfield is now a well known brand in the Free From space, with seven beers in bottle, can, mini cask and keg and draught. Bellfield has a taproom, beer garden and brewhouse. Giselle also works as a PR consultant/Director at Pagoda PR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gemma grew up on the Isle of Lewis in the Hebrides of Scotland. After studying Russian Language at the University of Glasgow, she worked at The Balvenie distillery studying the art of making whisky and looking after visitors from around the world. Gemma’s whisky journey brought her from Speyside to Stateside, New York City, where she travelled the country as Ambassador for Balvenie. Today Gemma resides in Speyside and now as Global Ambassador for Balvenie, connects with drinkers around the world telling stories and sharing drams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Diana Thompson has over 30 years’ experience within the wine and hospitality industry, including working overseas and national and international roles in the UK.A Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certified tutor, after working independently withhotels and restaurants for 12 years, Diana launched Wine Events Scotland in 2016 during thefirst Fizz Feast annual festival, and works with producers and consumers, holding wineworkshops, tastings and events across the UK.Diana has received numerous awards, including Scottish Enterprise Awards’ Most ResilientWine Marketing Enterprise 2020 and ‘Wine Event Organiser of the Year 2020’ at Lux Food &Drink Awards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Food waste is one of the biggest unrecognised contributors to our carbon footprint.On this episode of Scran, Rosalind is joined by Scotland's national chef Gary MacLean and Zero Waste Scotland's Andrew Pankhurst to find out more about food waste and how to prevent it.From Gary's batch cooking and vacuum packing methods to Andrew's tips on recycling and composting - it really is an eco friendly guide to cooking.With Glasgow set to host the 26th Climate Change Conference it's time that Scotland follows a more sustainable approach to cooking and eating. Expect practical tips and some laughs around recycling faux-pas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us, and it’s a great time to spoil yourself or a loved one with a special meal - even if it's a home-cooked meal this year.On this episode of Scran, Rosalind chats to a well-known couple on the Scottish food and drink scene - Tom and Michaela Kitchin - about their businesses, how they met, what they’ve been cooking in lockdown and working together as a married couple. They tell us how this is the first Valentine's Day they’ll be spending together, due the restaurant being temporarily closed.Jon O'Connor, brand ambassador at Isle of Bute Gin, also shares an easy to make cocktail that you can try at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to Scran for our third series. Host Rosalind Erskine is back with a brand new line-up of guests talking all things Scottish food and drink.It couldn't be more fitting than to start with one of the most patriotic days of the year - Burns Night. On the 25th of January The Scotsman hosted a Burns Night Live event on its social media channels where our panel where joined by an international audience.Rosalind was also joined live by Scotland's national chef Gary MacLean, Scotsman Heritage writer Alison Campsie and BenRiach brand ambassador Stewart Buchanan.The event also featured a guest appearance from Sam Heughan, an exclusive poem read by Alexander McCall Smith and a chat with James MacSween of the world famous MacSween haggis.To watch back the live event: https://www.scotsman.com/lifestyle/food-and-drink/recap-watch-scotsmans-free-virtual-burns-night-celebration-here-3108953 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A very merry welcome to the Scran Christmas special! While Christmas will be different this year, we can still enjoy a nice plate of food, which is what this episode is all about, whatever your diet.Our first guests will be sure to warm your hearts and get you laughing. Rosalind is joined by founder of Socialbite, Josh Littlejohn MBE, and Itison founder Oliver Norman. They tell Rosalind about their partnership which began six years ago. The 'Buy a Homeless person a meal' at Christmas devised by Socialbite and hosted on the platform Itison sold 36,000 hot dinners in its first year and has grown ever since. They talk about the impact of the campaign and why it never fails to surprise them.Next, Rosalind is joined by Scotsman picture editor and food writer Catriona Thompson, who talks about all the best vegetarian and vegan finds - for those who have had one too many nut roasts.Finally, Rosalind shares her best supermarket finds for our festive favourites.Music attribution: Christmas Rap and We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Kevin Macleod from-filmmusic-io/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode of Scran, we partnered with Johnnie Walker to celebrate 200 years of the brand.On this episode, host Rosalind Erskine is joined by Head of Whisky Outreach at Diageo and the author of ‘A Long Stride’, Nicolas Morgan. Published this year to coincide with the bicentenary, the book takes a look at the history of Johnnie Walker, exploring how it grew from a humble grocery store in Kilmarnock to the global brand it is today.Rosalind is also joined by author and whisky consultant Blair Bowman. He is widely known for founding World Whisky Day and listeners of Scran will know that Blair has featured on the podcast before.Blair chats about what blended Scotch is (and the difference between blended malt), his favourite Johnnie Walker drinks and, of course. his desert island drams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode we are celebrating a whole year of Scran.From our first episode at Edinburgh's Christmas market, to recording in lockdown, host Rosalind Erskine and guest specialist reporter Caitlyn Dewar discuss the highlights and funny bits of the last year.Listen back to chef Nick Nairn's cooking tips, Sam Heughan discussing whisky, Michel Roux Jr's family foraging and a whisky tasting at the Craigellachie hotel.Caitlyn and Rosalind also discuss their favourite lockdown cocktails and meals, who they'd share a quaich with and shopping locally during the pandemic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode Rosalind's guest is chocolatier Chloe Oswald of Chocolatia - a business she founded during Covid, in her brother's flat in Forfar and which has gone on to do great things. Chloe has been the recipient of many awards and her chocolate continues to impress many a palate. Chloe talks to me about her time in some of Scotland's most respected kitchens and why ethically-sourced chocolate is so important to her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Scran, host Rosalind Erskine is joined by a very special guest: Outlander star Sam Heughan.Sam is a Scottish actor who is best known for playing warrior Jamie Fraser in Outlander, the historical drama TV show based on the novel series of the same name. Set in Scotland in 1793 at the time of the Jacobites uprising, it has gained fans from all over the world.In 2019 Sam realised his dream of releasing his own whisky, The Sassenach. Sam talks about what inspired him, why he chose a blend over a single malt and when fans in the UK can buy a bottle.Sam also discusses his drams of choice, as well as some favourite foods... and some not-so-favourite foodie moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week features not one but two chefs from Michelin star restaurants: Michel Roux Jr. and Stevie McLaughlin.The first part of the episode features Rosalind's visit to Crossbasket Castle to meet Michel Roux Jr. Michel now runs Le Gavorche, one of the first restaurants to gain a Michelin star in 1974. He talks about his famous family name that is synonymous with fine dining, and his humble upbringing, cooking for his icon Sir Alex Ferguson and the key to restaurant success.The second part of the episode features Stevie McLaughlin, head chef at Scotland's only two Michelin star restaurant. Rosalind finds out about Stevie's career that started with an interest in Choux pastry, his first encounter with Andrew Fairlie at One Devonshire Gardens and tips on how the future generation of chefs can progress in the industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Scran we chat all things Scottish gin with Gin Cooperative founders Natalie and Martin Reid, and Sean Murphy, author of the book 'Gin Galore'.With International Scottish Gin Day falling on 24 October this year, Martin and Natalie discuss how and why they set it up.Sean chats about the rise in popularity of Scottish gin and what can be learned from whisky, and we all mull over our favourite gins and why flavoured options seem to be on the rise.Finally Rosalind is back in her kitchen, this time making a Scottish G&T with a twist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Halloween is just around the corner, this episode of Scran is all about pumpkins.Rosalind finally gets back on the road again to visit two pumpkin farms - Arnprior in Stirling and Kilduff in East Lothian.Opened in 2015, Arnprior was one of the first pick-your-own pumpkin farms in Scotland. Run by Duncan and Rebecca, who live on the farm with their children and Duncan’s parents, the Arnprior pumpkin patch is a popular family day out every year.Rosalind then heads east to Kilduff Farm in East Lothian. Owners Lucy and Russ talked to her about their decision to open in 2018 and their quest to reduce waste associated with Halloween and pumpkins.Finally we couldn’t talk pumpkins and autumn without chatting about some people’s favourite seasonal drink - the pumpkin spice latte. Find out how to make one at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Scran takes a look back at Glasgow's malt riots and how they kick-started the whisky industry we know and love today.Joining Rosalind are Emily Coyle, brand development manager at the Glasgow Distillery company, and Norry Wilson, founder of Lost Glasgow, a Facebook page with a global following that shares tales of Glasgow’s colourful and diverse history.Emily tells us about The Glasgow Distillery’s latest whisky release, Malt Riot Blended Scotch Malt Whisky, inspired by the 1725 Malt Tax Riots which started in Glasgow and spread across the country. Norry discusses Glasgow's rebellious past and recent history, and why you should fear the women over the men.Finally Rosalind creates two Glasgow Distillery cocktails at home using Malt Riot - Malt Riot Glasgow Whisky Sour and the Ginger Riot.Scran listeners can get £5 off your bottle of Malt Riot Blended Malt Scotch Whisky - listen to find out the exclusive discount code. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week's Scran takes a look at the health of Scotland's food and drink sector - and a look back at the 2020 Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight.Joining Rosalind are guests James Withers, Scotland Food and Drink CEO, and Mairi Gougeon, Minister for Rural Affairs and Natural Environment and MSP for Angus North & Mearns.James and Mairi share their thoughts and insights into the fortnight. They also discuss how the industry has been affected by the pandemic, why supporting Scottish producers is important to them and what opportunities they see for the Scottish food and drink industry. Plus we find out who their dream dinner party guests would be.Chef Stevie McLaughlin is back in the kitchen, and this week he's giving his top tips on how to cook Scottish langoustines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Scran is taking a culinary tour of Scotland, chatting to a range of local legends about their businesses, produce and their community.This week, Rosalind is on a socially distant tour of the Highlands chatting to various entrepreneurs about why their location is key to their success and at the heart of their product.Our first guest is Jamie Delap of family business Fyne Ales, which began in 2001 when his parents decided to turn their dwindling farm into a brewery after sampling craft ales down south and seeing a gap in the market for craft ales in the area.Next up is Jill Clark of Highland Connage cheese, an award-winning family owned organic cheese maker, which started 15 years ago on a farm at Ardersier.Finally Rosalind speaks to Keith Paterson, founder of Shore Seaweed. Based in Wick, they are growers, harvesters and processors of natural Scottish seaweed.This episode is produced in partnership with Scotland Food and Drink and we are almost at the end of this amazing campaign which sees Scotland's food industry celebrate local legends with regional producers showcasing their produce through their social media with the aim of encouraging people to source, buy and eat Scottish food and drink. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode, Rosalind's culinary tour of Scotland takes her to the central belt. She talks to business owners about their passion for their work and why the local food scene has lots to offer.Scott Smith, chef and Root to Market founder discusses the concept, how he and his team set it up in a short space of time, what produce is available and his top dinner party guests.Next up, Nikki Strorar, farmer and owner of a family-run Ardross farm shop based in Fife, talks about setting up the shop and regenerative farming.Finally Brian O'Shea, founder of The Paisley Drinks Co. chats about the rise of craft soda, childhood nostalgia and supporting local businesses through lockdown.This episode of Scran is brought to you in partnership Scotland food and drink. We are now halfway through Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight, which runs until 20th September. These two weeks see Scotland's food industry celebrate local legends with regional producers showcasing their produce through their social media with the aim of encouraging people to source, buy and eat Scottish food and drink. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of Scran is brought to you in partnership Scotland food and drink and today marks the launch of the Scottish food and drink fortnight from the 5th - 20th September.Scran will take a culinary tour around Scotland, chatting to a range of local legends about their businesses, produce and their community.This week host Rosalind is on a socially distant tour of the north east as she chats to various entrepreneurs in Aberdeenshire about their passion for growing their businesses and why the culinary scene there is booming. Her first guest is owner of House of Botanicals, Adam Elan-Elmegirab who talks about his creative idea that led him to research and recreate the famous Boker’s bitters, which was first created in 1828.Next up Rosalind chats to Skipper of the Budding Rose, Peter Bruce who tells me about his family roots in the fishing industry and the importance of continuing this legacy.Then, Hungry Squirrel Nut butter founder Susan Yule discusses how she developed her business when she was looking for an alternative to peanut butter for herself and her children.Finally, our new friend of the podcast, chef Stevie McLaughlin tells us how to make a restaurant classic - lobster thermidor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week is the second part of our Scran on the road series.On this episode, Rosalind travels from Speyside to the Moray coast to speak to business owners and staff about reopening following lockdown.Firstly, Rosalind chats to owner of Bootlegger's Bothy and the Bothy Bistro, Ruth Scott and head chef Andy Fyfe about the pop up kitchen overlooking the Moray coast and how the pandemic has made them become more creative.Rosalind then heads to Elgin to speak to brand ambassador for Glen Moray, Iain Allan about their dial a dram service.A bonus from last week's episode, Danny Grant head chef at the Craigellachie talks about why Scotland’s food larder is more than enough to cook up a storm.Finally Charles Gladstone from Glen Dye cabins and cottages talks about the rising popularity of a staycation and why Scotland is a dream destination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we're getting very excited about one of the international cultural events of the year. The Oscars take place this weekend and in an amazing turn of events, two Scottish businesses have reason to celebrate. Fetcha Chocolates and The Gin Bothy will both see their products feature as part of the famous "Everyone Wins" gift bags which the nominees receive. These bags have an approximate value of $125,000 and include such exclusive contents as luxury skincare and a lavish holiday in St Bart's. On this episode of Scran Rosalind speaks to Fiona MacArthur from her business Fetcha Chocolates in Campbelltown about this exciting development, as well as how she's got to where she is today. You'll hear about how she has gone all out to capitalise on this opportunity. Rosalind also speaks to Kim Cameron, owner of The Gin Bothy about the 'pinch me' moment of being asked to contribute one of her gins to the gift bag. She also tells Rosalind the great story of how she went from jam making to gin making and how both businesses are reaping rewards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to our first 'Scran on the Road' episode! This week, host Rosalind Erskine starts her engine and ventures to the Craigellachie Hotel in Speyside to see what the offering is now that doors are open.Kevin Smith, managing director at the hotel, talks about how the hotel has adapted during the lockdown. He also talks about the hotel's refurbishment back in 2014 and how this led to a star-studded relaunch party with guests including Kate Moss and Noel Gallacher.Whilst at the hotel, Rosalind visits the Quiach, the world's leading whisky bar, home to over 500 bottles, and enjoys a whisky tasting with bar manager Angus Bryce-McVay.Continuing the whisky trail, Rosalind visits the Whisky Shop in Duffton and chats to owner Mike Lord. He discusses how his once intimate Whisky Colours festival has evolved into a hybrid with both in-person tastings and virtual experiences. He also shares what drams he has in his cupboard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eating locally caught seafood isn't something we do enough of in the UK. But with over 100 different species of fish caught in UK waters, why not give it a try?In this episode of Scran, Rosalind discusses a campaign called Sea For Yourself, which is all about encouraging us to cook and eat more fish caught in UK waters.Rosalind is joined by chef and seafish ambassador Rachel Green, and Jim Cowie, owner of the Captain's Galley seafood restaurant in Scrabster.Rachel shares her insights into why, as a nation, we don't eat enough fish. She also provides some great cooking tips and shares some simple yet delicious recipes. Jim talks about the importance of sustainability and why eating seasonally and locally is key.He also talks about the importance of traceability and why the local fishmonger can provide you with all the knowledge you need. Also, find out why Rachel and Rosalind will be visiting Jim in the near future.Nick Nairn is back with his tip on how to cook fresh mussels, whilst in Rosalind's kitchen she serves up some hand-dived scallops delivered by the Ethical Shellfish Company and a Bloody Mary.As Jim puts it: "There's a fish for every dish and a dish for every season." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From unheard outtakes to adventures across Scotland, on this bonus episode of Scran, Rosalind Erskine takes you through some of her favourite moments of series one and two.Expect awkward breathing, laughter and weird and wonderful food favourites. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It has been a long four months of lockdown, but finally indoor hospitality can reopen in Scotland. On this episode Rosalind chats to Stevie McLaughlin, head chef of Scotland's only two Michelin star restaurant - Restaurant Andrew Fairlie - about lockdown, how the staff and restaurant have been prepared for opening and what diners can expect.Rosalind also heads out to a newly opened beer garden in Glasgow, Cranside Kitchen, to discuss the reopening restaurant scene in the city with Glasgowist editor Paul Trainer.From beer garden to inside the bar, Rosalind speaks to publican Michael Woods, who owns The Amsterdam, Saint Lukes and the Winged Ox. Michael speaks about takeaway pints, reopening to customers both inside and out and how things will be very different from before.Nick Nairn is back in the kitchen giving his cooking tips. This time it's how to bake a loaf of bread - for those who didn't manage to master it during lockdown.Finally Rosalind shares her lockdown food and drink that you can enjoy at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Scran, Rosalind finds out more about the growing trend for distilling Scottish rum.Often cited as the next big thing following on from Scottish gin, the production of rum has been steadily growing in Scotland over the last two to three years.Rosalind is joined by Jacine Rutasikwa, co-founder of Matugga Distillers in Livingston, and Kit Carruthers of Ninefold Distillery in Dumfries.Kit and Jacine discuss why they decided to start making rum and how a rum can be Scottish, as well as giving advice for those looking to get into the industry. Jacine and Kit also chat about their favourite rum drinks and the upcoming virtual Scottish rum festival.Nick Nairn is also back with his cooking tip and Rosalind discusses her lockdown food and drink of choice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Scran, recorded ahead of Father's Day, Rosalind chats to Billy and Alistair Walker about how whisky has shaped their careers.Nick Nairn also joins Rosalind on a call to discuss his career highlights - from being the youngest Scottish chef to receive a Michelin star to cooking for the Queen. Nick also shares his cooking tip for this episode: how to make perfect pasta.Finally Rosalind talks about what she's been eating and drinking at home over the last two weeks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Scran, Rosalind chats to celebrity chef Nick Nairn about the current crisis and its effects on the hospitality industry - and how restaurants are adapting.Nick also talks about what he's been enjoying cooking at home in lockdown and shares his tips on how to make a whisky sauce.Continuing the whisky chat is Simon Aron from Cask Trade. Simon gives his advice on investing in whisky casks and why this is a much more interactive and romantic prospect than conventional investments.Finally, Rosalind discusses her lockdown food and drink of choice - including a family favourite, delivery options and a newly released gin fizz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, Rosalind chats to two pioneers of the beer industry who are offering healthier alternatives to classic pints.Jason Clarke, creative Director of Genius Brewing, discusses their craft light lager and their mission to provide quality craft beer at a fraction of the alcohol and calories. Jason also talks about how the rise in healthy living has affected the beer market and how America is leading the way.Rosalind also speaks to Sonja Mitchell, founder of Jump Ship Brewing, about her alcohol-free beer, which launched last year. Sonja discusses why she moved from marketing into brewing and her reasons behind launching an alcohol-free beer - Yardarm lager.Acclaimed chef Nick Nairn also joins Rosalind on a call to give some cooking tips - this week he reveals how to cook a perfect steak.Finally Rosalind gives her ideas on food and drink to enjoy at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Rosalind chats to a range of whisky experts in the lead up to World Whisky Day on 16 May.Blair Bowman, author, whisky consultant and founder of World Whisky Day, talks about why and how he founded the day, his journey into whisky and how you can train your nose to pick up on the subtleties of a dram.John McCheyne, Master Brand Ambassador for the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, chats about his whisky memories, what members can expect from the society, how to host a tasting at home and his favourite drams.Finally, founder of the Edinburgh Whisky Academy Kirsty McKerrow discusses her career in whisky, what courses are available at the academy and how people can take part online from home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to season two of Scran - the podcast that's passionate about food and drink.We are now airing fortnightly and this week we delve into the coronavirus crisis and lockdown - and how the food and drink industry is coping.Rosalind is joined by James Withers, CEO of Scotland Food and Drink, award-winning chef Mark Greenaway and Petra Wetzel, owner of WEST Brewery.James chats about Scotland Food and Drink, how the organisation is helping members and how the industry can navigate this current crisis together and come out the other side.Mark shares his tip on cooking at home and discusses what he thinks the future holds for restaurants after coronavirus.Petra talks about the impact of the lockdown on her businesses, beer delivery and why WEST will no longer be supplying Wetherspoons pubs.Rosalind also talks about her lockdown cuisine - a sardine bolognese, and favourite G&T, made with Edinburgh Gin's Seaside Gin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rosalind's guests on this Bonus episode of Scran are Martin Compston and Phil MacHugh, stars of Martin Compston's Norwegian Fling which has recently started on BBC Scotland and BBC Two. You may be familiar with Martin Compston from his acting roles in hit TV series' such as Line of Duty and The Rig and Phil MacHugh is a TV personality and owner of Skapa PR which is based in Edinburgh. A couple of years back, Martin and good friend Phil set out to film a Scottish travelogue adventure and its success has seen this second series commissioned.  Rosalind chats to Martin and Phil about their time in Norway, the interesting, even challenging food and drink they encountered, Martin's plans to produce a beer and how what they encountered compares to their travels in Scotland. Both Martin and Phil share their tips for eating and drinking in Scotland and Rosalind takes the opportunity to ask about their desert island drams! Martin Compston's Norwegian Fling is available on BBC iPlayer now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to series two of Scran - the podcast that's passionate about food and drink.We are now airing fortnightly and this week, listeners are invited to take a stroll in some ancient woodlands in Perthshire as host Rosalind Erskine chats to founders of Birken Tree, Rob and Gabrielle, about how and why they harvest Birch water and the health benefits provided by it.Rosalind also chats to restaurant critic for the Scotland on Sunday newspaper, Cat Thomson, about foraging finds, menus and what she's cooking now we are all at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you know how to pair wine and food? Does glass shape really affect wine taste? This week Scran answers all these questions and more as Rosalind chats to founder of Wine Events Scotland Diana Thomson.Diana hosted Edinburgh's first Fizz Feast festival last year and is set to launch Edinburgh Uncorked this year, along with the second instalment of Fizz Feast.Diana chats about how wine price doesn't necessarily affect taste, how to choose a good wine and how to taste it. Plus which glass is best - as shape really does matter.Caitlyn Dewar from the Edinburgh Evening News is in the studio talking about her favourite wines and the rise of the wine bar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Rosalind goes behind the scenes at one of Scotland's most famous hotels - Gleneagles - to chat to executive chef Simon Attridge.Simon chats about Scotland's larder and its influence on the menus at Gleneagles, what it was like to gain a Michelin star at 25 and working with Heston Blumenthal.Rosalind is also joined in the studio by Gaby Soutar, The Scotsman's restaurant critic, to discuss the evolution of fine dining, her thoughts on the Gleneagles breakfast and dinner as an experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you're a woman who loves beer then Beers Without Beards - a group for women who like beer and would like to get together to enjoy it in good company - is worth checking out.To celebrate International Women's Day we sit down and talk craft beer with the group's founder, Amélie Tassin.Amélie discusses how and why she set up Beers Without Beards, what new members can expect from meet ups, craft beer collaborations and their plans for International Women's Day.Scotsman Food and Drink editor Sean Murphy is also in the studio to chat about brewing and his desert island drinks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whisky is one of Scotland's major exports as well as a huge tourism driver. But did you know that some whisky history also includes illicit distilling, pirates and vagabonds? This week we delve into just that with the Glengoyne story, as told by their whisky experiential ambassador, Gordon Dallas.Rosalind finds out how Glengoyne was inextricably linked to the rapid rise of Glasgow as an industrial powerhouse, through violent vagabonds and Victorian entrepreneurs to modern day pirates.Rosalind also chats to Sean Murphy, editor of Scotsman Food and Drink, about distilling's murky past in Scotland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With International Women's Day just around the corner, this week Scran is celebrating women in the hospitality industry with a live recording from a special fundraising dinner at Eusebi's in Glasgow.Rosalind chats to owner Giovanna Eusebi about her restaurant and family influences, as well as her motivation behind hosting the women in hospitality dinner.Kate Fairlie discusses how she's keeping her husband Andrew Fairlie's legacy alive and chief executive of HIT Scotland David Cochrane talks about how this charity is helping to support those getting into the industry, including fundraising efforts such as climbing Kilimanjaro and eating the 'world's highest' Burns supper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Unless you've been living under a rock, you won't have escaped the seemingly unstoppable rise of Scottish gin.One brand that seems to encapsulate the ethos of championing not just local produce but a sense of community is the Isle of Harris Gin. Produced on the island at the newly opened distillery, the gin is known for its unique flavour - created with the main botanical sugar kelp - and eye-catching blue bottle.This week Rosalind Erskine chats to Harris gin's brand ambassador Iona Cairns about the gin's creation, rise in popularity, what happened when thy ran out of bottles, and why you should visit the distillery if you have a sweet tooth.Gaby Souter, The Scotsman restaurant critic, is also in the studio with her must-visit restaurants of the month (and some to avoid). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Love it or hate it, Valentine's Day is just around the corner and it's one of the most popular nights of the year to dine out.This week, love is in the air as host Rosalind Erskine chats to chef Paul Wedgwood, owner of Royal Mile eatery Wedgwood the Restaurant.As well as giving his tips for cooking a slap-up romantic meal at home, Paul also discusses what diners can expect when eating at his restaurant (spoiler: it won't be as expensive as you might think) and how he sources his ingredients - often by foraging in woodland in and around Edinburgh.Rosalind also speaks to Edinburgh Evening News reporter Caitlyn Dewar about her thoughts on February the 14th, and why a good dinner out is not just for Valentine's day, it's for life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Even if you're not a beer drinker, the name Brewdog won't have escaped your attention in recent years. From humble beginnings in 2007 they've grown to become a global brand with 82 bars around the world.This week Rosalind ventures up to Ellon to visit the home of Brewdog. She chats to co-founder Martin Dickie about his passion for brewing, the logic behind the name and their innovative business model.Rosalind chats to Scotsman Food and Drink editor Sean Murphy about the reasons behind the rise of craft beer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Great chieftain o' the pudding-race!This week we celebrate the culinary traditions of Burns Night, with expert tips on haggis and whisky.Rosalind is joined by Mark Thomson, the brand ambassador for Scotland for Glenfiddich, who recites 'Address to a Haggis' and shares his insight into which whisky should be enjoyed with the traditional dish.Rosalind also welcomes James Macsween, managing director of Macsweens Haggis, and Scott Monroe, Head of East of Scotland region for Marks and Spencers.They talk about working together to create their delicious haggis and how they are catering to a more diverse global market than ever - with the help of 'Scottish Veggie Crumble'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a special partnership episode of Scran with the Scotch Whisky Experience. Nestled on Castle Hill, within a stones throw of Edinburgh Castle, the Scotch Whisky Experience has been welcoming visitors from all over the world since the late 80s - a time when the world of whisky was very, very different to what it is now. Rosalind went along to experience this popular tour and speak to some of the people in the know about how it came about, what it has to offer and how it has played a not insignificant role in nurturing much of the talent found in the whisky industry today. Rosalind chats to Angela Dineen, Operations Director about the history of the experience as well as modern undertakings, including the recent investment of £3.5m into a new tour and how it houses one of the world's largest collections of scotch whisky. She also speaks to Michelle Pizzi, Site Director of The North British Distillery and Alex Thomson, Visitor Attraction Manager at The Glenturret Distillery who share their memories of their time working at the Scotch Whisky Experience and how it helped shape their future careers in the industry. They offer some great insight into working in this thriving industry and how the Scotch Whisky Experience has played its part in their careers. If you're interested in opportunities with them, check out their website where you can find more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we'll get you out of the January blues and into the rhythm of 2020, and we'll talk about Veganuary and Chinese New year all in the same episode.Host Rosalind Erksine chats to Lychee Oriental founder and chef, Jimmy Lee about his Chinese New Year traditions, his childhood exploring the drinks cabinet and his new gluten free menu.Rosalind also chats to Edinburgh Evening News what's on and food reporter Caitlyn Dewar about new foodie finds in the capital and her thoughts on the Veganuary trend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Buffalo mozzarella doesn't sound very Scottish. But one Fife farmer is aiming to change all that.This week Rosalind goes to visit Steven Mitchell on his buffalo farm near Kirkcaldy.He talks about why he chose buffalo, the unique characteristics (and sounds) of the animals, and his ambitions to produce Scotland's first ever buffalo mozzarella. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gin is this week's theme, and more specifically the botanicals that make each one unique.Rosalind is joined in the studio by Hamish Martin, co-founder of the Secret Herb Garden. He talks about growing his business from a derelict plot of land on the outskirts of Edinburgh into a specialist seven-acre herb garden and visitor centre. He also discusses The Old Curiosity Gin, which he launched in 2017.We also get the background to Scotland's gin renaissance from Sean Murphy, Scotsman food and drink editor, and author of the acclaimed 'Gin Galore: A Journey to the Source of Scotland's Gin'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices