Rob Allanson : Scotland Magazine

All in the mix

Rob Allanson explains the mysterious art of whisky blending

People say blending a whisky is a little like conducting a symphony orchestra, when it all comes together you can be swept off your feet. The art of the blender has always been a fascinating one, how do you keep some of the world’s most recognisable brands tasting the same time after time? With a b...

Blended Whisky from Issue 35 published on 15/11/2007

The spirit of Scotland

Rob Allanson introduces us to Scotland’s whisky producing regions

Scotch malt whisky is one of the very essences of Scotland; a golden and copper spider’s web that sprawls across the country and weaves its way through history. Whisky can often provide a link back to the motherland as it sums up the country and the people of this great nation. Every sip hails back...

Scotland and whisky from Issue 34 published on 30/08/2007

Two fat ladies

Rob Allanson checks out a Glasgow restaurant renowned for its fish cuisine

One thing Glasgow does best is small, intimate restaurant settings. When you scratch the surface of the city there are a myriad to choose from, offering great food and relaxing surroundings. Two Fat Ladies, named after the bingo call (being at number 88 Dumbarton Road) not the television programme,...

Best of Scotland from Issue 31 published on 16/02/2007

Painting the town red (Vermilion Restaurant)

Rob Allanson dines at Vermilion Restaurant beneath the iconic Scotsman Hotel, Edinburgh

Edinburgh has plenty of tucked away, intimate restaurants for that perfect dinner rendezvous or relaxing lunch. One of the best is to be found hidden away deep in the vaults of the stunning Scotsman Hotel, which maintains a silent vigil over the city’s North Bridge. This red sandstone Edwardian bu...

Best of Scotland from Issue 30 published on 01/12/2006

Wild island paradise

Glengorm Castle is a luxurious retreat on the Isle of Mull. Rob Allanson visited it

There are several elements that go in to making a memorable stay at an island retreat – and Glengorm Castle has them by the sack full. Whether it is the romantic, windswept landscape, the dramatic castle, log fire and comfy leather armchairs or just the owners’ down to earth hospitality – a stay at...

Best of Scotland from Issue 29 published on 25/10/2006

Perthshire perfection

Rob Allanson checks in to East Haugh House in Perthshire

If outdoor Scotland whispers to you as you sit in the office surrounded by concrete and cars, then it is time for a break. For those who dream of stalking a big stag or hooking the fish of a lifetime while cocooned in some of the best scenery that Scotland has to offer, then East Haugh House provid...

Best of Scotland from Issue 28 published on 20/09/2006

Riverside city (Glasgow)

Glasgow has long been a city worth seeing. But now, says Rob Allanson, it’s making use of its past and focusing its appeal on the Clyde

There is no real excuse to go to Scotland, visit Edinburgh and not slip out to the west and visit the jewel of the Clyde. Glasgow, for many, is considered Scotland’s premier city to visit and take a longer holiday than a day trip. Edinburgh has its government, coronets, crowns, castle and grey win...

Regional Focus from Issue 26 published on 21/04/2006