What a dram fine way to raise a glass to the return of the Open to St Andrews.
There’s no need for a Claret Jug as Lennox Harrower, mine host at the Ceres Inn, has launched his own tribute by commissioning a triumphant trio of whiskies.
The Spirits of St Andrews are a series of three 10-year-old single malt whiskies which celebrate some of golf’s most iconic figures who have tasted victory in the town.
Coming from three of the major distilling areas of Scotland, Islay, Speyside and the Highlands, each whisky enjoys its own distinctive flavour and are named The Original Big Three, Modern Day American Champions and Three Popular Past Champions.
Golf historian and artist David Joy, who is better known as the man who plays Tom Morris, has designed and drawn the sketches of the famous golfers who appear on the labels and cartons.
The Big Three features Tom Morris senior and junior as well as the world’s first golf professional, Allan Robertson.
All three golfing greats are buried in the grounds of St Andrews Cathedral.
Three Popular Champions showcases Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros and Bobby Jones while Recent American Champions features Tony Lema, Jack Nicklaus, John Daly and Tiger Woods.
Mr Harrower, a born and bred St Andrean, has been the proprietor of the Ceres Inn for the past seven years.
Last year he launched a special whisky to celebrate the 700th anniversary of Ceres Highland Games.
Speaking of his new idea, he said: “Combining my love of whisky and golf with the unique story of St Andrews was an obvious progression from last year.
“I’m delighted with the response so far from the trade and hope to see the collection available across Fife and beyond.
“Obviously, it will also have pride of place in the Ceres Inn.”
Fife Tourism Parternship manager Ann Camus congratulated Mr Harrower on the initiative.
“This is the perfect way to celebrate golf in Fife with its many historical connections as well as celebrating Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink.
“We know how important local food and drink is to visitors so I am sure that the Spirits of St Andrews will be a great success as a wonderful collector’s item and also as a fine dram to enjoy,” she said.
See more at www.spiritsofstandrews.co.uk.