Highlander Inn, Aberlour

There are not many pubs that stand out in this area and few that warrant going the extra mile to visit but the multi award winning Highlander is certainly one. Whilst it is predominantly a whisky bar (one of the best to be found), it also acts as a rare outlet for a selection of Real Ales. The 2 bars are tucked away downstairs whilst the ground floor houses a reception, lobby and restaurant. The carpeted main lounge bar is neat, tidy and comfortable but quite small with a few recesses and alcoves making it quite intimate. The most noticeable features are the numerous cabinets laden with whisky bottles. Landscape pictures and various Distillery photos adorn the walls. The public bar has its own separate bar backing on to the lounge and contains yet more shelves and cabinets containing whisky bottles as well as dozens of various whisky posters. There is also a basic TV and dart board. The pub offers in the region of 250 different and diverse whiskies sourced not just from the local distilleries but also an extensive selection from worldwide including the largest number of Japanese whiskies outside of Asia. The staff are very enthusiastic and knowledgable on the subject matter and the delightful barmaid during our visit virtually gave us a guided tour around the shelves. The few locals we encountered were also friendly and chaty. On the ale front, there were 3 hand pumps with Cairngorm Trade Winds, Okells Summer Storm and Wadworth St George, all of very good quality if a little pricey at £3.10/£3.20 a pint. The local Real Ale Club meet here once a month but from my experience of travelling in the area, they don’t have a great deal of choice. Outside, a new decked terrace has recently been opened and the 5 en-suite bedrooms looked very good value if you really want to go to town. I only popped in for a quick pint and stayed for 3, sure sign of an accommodating hostelry.

Official site of the Highlander Inn, contains menus and drinks details - www.whiskyinn.com