A little bit of Caribbean sunshine arrived in Fairlie thanks to Mudhook Whisky Club who want to 'lift the spirits' of keen connoisseurs.

Club member Tam Smith, who works in the Caribbean and spends most of the year in the region, returned to the Village Inn in Fairlie to share his personal experience of the link between Scotch whisky and Caribbean Rum.

He explained how rum was made in the region, highlighting the similarities in the distillation process - and most importantly, how rum producers in the Caribbean are using Scotch whisky barrels from different distilleries over here to give the rum a distinctive flavour.

On the night, members were able to taste Scotch whisky from different distilleries who are using rum casks from different Caribbean Rum distilleries to finish their whisky to give it a unique taste. The evening demonstrated the impact that finishing casks can have on different Scotch whiskies.

To round off the night in a special way and to show the impact Scotch whisky barrels have on rum, Tam provided a sample of a premium 13-year-old Venezuelan Run finished in Speyside casks.

Only available in the region, brought by Tam especially for the night, it was a tremendous pleasure to sample this delightful drink.

The club’s next event will be “Farewell to 2024” which will be held on December 6 when a selection of very fine drams and some nibbles will be delivered around a quiz night with a difference – definitely one not to be missed.

As always, spaces are limited and demand is high so call/text Dave Bonn soon on 07811 200720 to book your space.