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The Herald Scotland
44 minutes ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
New £25m landmark whisky distillery fills first casks
Ardgowan Distillery in Inverkip is to formally opened today by Kate Forbes, Scotland's Deputy First Minister, as its first casks are filled since building concluded earlier this month. Founded in 2017, the firm is led by Roland Grain, whisky entrepreneur, and Laura Davies, distillery manager, who together spearhead an expert team with a combined experience spanning over seven decades in the whisky industry. Kate Forbes said it was a 'significant moment'. (Image: Getty Images) Featuring a sweeping Scandinavian longhouse design and 97 per cent recycled aluminium roof, the distillery has its sights set on producing top quality whisky and striving for carbon neutrality. Ms Forbes said: 'This is a significant moment for the region's economy, with investment and job opportunities set to boost local communities. 'Scotland's whisky industry is a pivotal contributor to our positive global standing and provides great economic benefit, adding over £7 billion to the UK economy and generating £5.4bn in exports alone. 'I congratulate the team at Ardgowan for the dedication they have shown on this journey and I wish them every success as they enter the next phase of their operations.' Following eight years of development, planning and construction, it is the first new distillery to open in Inverclyde for over a century. The firm said that, until now, the last distillery to operate in the region was destroyed in the Greenock Blitz. The first casks are filled. (Image: Ardgowan Distillery) Mr Grain said: 'After a lengthy build, the team and I are thrilled to now be in full production and filling casks with our own distillate, including private casks for our Clan Ardgowan members. Ardgowan's ultimate goal is to revive the golden age of Scotch whisky with long Sherry cask maturation in European oak. 'Our commitment to quality is demonstrated by investing millions of pounds in our bespoke Infinity Casks years before the distillery was built. Producing whisky is all about time and patience, so, as we fill our first casks and the Deputy First Minister opens the site to the public, we look forward to steadily perfecting our Single Malt in the years to come.' The Ardgowan Distillery's visitor centre is planned to open later this summer 'with various experiences on offer, catering for whisky novices and connoisseurs alike'. 8,000 new jobs to be created Around 8,000 jobs could be created in an Aberdeenshire town over the next decade as £1 billion is set to be invested into energy transition projects.
Scotsman
3 hours ago
- Business
- Scotsman
The first new distillery in Inverclyde in a century opens - take a look inside Ardgowan
Independent Scotch whisky distillery Ardgowan has been formally opened today (20 June) by Scotland's deputy first Minister Kate Forbes, as its first casks are filled since building concluded earlier this month. Founded in 2017, the west coast firm is led by whisky entrepreneur Roland Grain and distillery manager Laura Davies who together spearhead an expert team with a combined experience spanning over seven decades in the whisky industry. Featuring an impressive Scandinavian longhouse design and visually striking 97% recycled aluminium roof, the distillery has its sights set on producing top quality whisky and striving for carbon neutrality. Following eight years of development, planning and construction, it is the first new distillery to open in Inverclyde for over a century. Until now, the last distillery to operate in the region was destroyed in the Greenock Blitz on 7th May 1941. The opening was led by Ms Forbes, with press and industry colleagues attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony and speeches. The site will then open to the public between 3-7pm with live music, local food vendors, a children's activity area, and exclusive whiskies on offer. Commenting on this major landmark, Mr Grain said: "After a lengthy build, the team and I are thrilled to now be in full production and filling casks with our own distillate, including private casks for our Clan Ardgowan members. "Ardgowan's ultimate goal is to revive the golden age of Scotch whisky with long Sherry cask maturation in European oak. Our commitment to quality is demonstrated by investing millions of pounds in our bespoke Infinity Casks years before the distillery was built. "Producing whisky is all about time and patience, so, as we fill our first casks and the Deputy First Minister opens the site to the public, we look forward to steadily perfecting our Single Malt in the years to come.' Scotland's deputy first minister Kate Forbes added: "This is a significant moment for the region's economy, with investment and job opportunities set to boost local communities. 'Scotland's whisky industry is a pivotal contributor to our positive global standing and provides great economic benefit, adding over £7 billion to the UK economy and generating £5.4 billion in exports alone. 'I congratulate the team at Ardgowan for the dedication they have shown on this journey and I wish them every success as they enter the next phase of their operations.' The Ardgowan Distillery's visitor centre is planned to open later this summer with various experiences on offer, catering for whisky novices and connoisseurs alike.
Emirates Woman
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
24 elevated high street suede bags from Dhs299 to shop right now
Quietly luxe and seasonally right, sumptuous suede bags are having a moment on and off the runways. From Bottega's slouchy shoulder styles to Chloé's boho-western revival, Spring/Summer 2025 proved one thing: suede is no longer reserved for your autumn archive. It's tactile, tonal, and surprisingly versatile—especially when softened into softly structured totes, buttery mini bags, and drawstring slings. While designer labels made a strong case for suede's elevated appeal (see Loewe's earthy Puzzle iterations), it's the high street that's translated the look with equal flair and without the four-figure price tag. Massimo Dutti's ruched bag, Zara's sand-toned bucket, and Mango's pared-back crossbody in mocha brown offer that same tactile richness with a minimalist lens. With its plush nap and lived-in feel, suede strikes a balance between Y2k nostalgia and newness, and anchors the quiet luxury aesthetic without the heavy logos. How to wear suede for summer? Offset its texture heaviness with lightweight fabrications – think linen co-ords, crochet dresses, or breezy tunics for the day. Come nighttime, contrast textures: a strappy silk slip or a semi-sheer maxi feels instantly cooler with a buttery suede clutch tucked in the crook of your arm. Colour-wise, lean into summer-friendly tones such as buttermilk, terracotta, clay, or a dusty green. These shades not only wear beautifully under the sun but transition effortlessly into early fall. Whether you're drawn to bohemian touches, clean Scandinavian lines, or a hint of equestrian flair, the high street's suede bag edit delivers. Consider it your soft-power move for the season—and beyond. Scroll through the gallery below for 24 of the best high street suede bags for 2025: – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: @hoskelsa
The National
4 hours ago
- Business
- The National
First new distillery in Inverclyde in more than 100 years opens
Following eight years of development, planning, and construction, Ardgowan Distillery was officially opened in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes on Friday. The distillery was designed with a Scandinavian longhouse aesthetic in mind, and along with it being visually striking, it also champions sustainability with its 97% recycled aluminium roof and composite cladding. The distillery has its sights set on not only producing top-quality whisky but also striving for carbon neutrality simultaneously. READ MORE: Community pub developed from historic school and outdoor centre set to open Forbes congratulated the Ardgowan team during her visit to the distillery as she said they have shown dedication to make the project a reality over the last eight years. She said: 'This is a significant moment for the region's economy, with investment and job opportunities set to boost local communities. 'Scotland's whisky industry is a pivotal contributor to our positive global standing and provides great economic benefit, adding over £7 billion to the UK economy and generating £5.4 billion in exports alone. (Image: Martin McAdam) 'I congratulate the team at Ardgowan for the dedication they have shown on this journey and I wish them every success as they enter the next phase of their operations.' The last distillery to operate in Inverclyde was destroyed in the Greenock Blitz on May 7, 1941. The Ardgowan Distillery's visitor centre is also planned to open later this summer with various experiences on offer. The site will be open to the public between 15:00-19:00 on Friday with live music, local food vendors, a children's activity area, and exclusive whiskies on offer to celebrate the grand opening. Founded in 2017, the west coast firm is led by whisky entrepreneur Roland Grain and distillery manager Laura Davies, who are leading an expert team with a combined experience spanning over seven decades in the whisky industry. (Image: Martin McAdam) Grain said: 'After a lengthy build, the team and I are thrilled to now be in full production and filling casks with our own distillate, including private casks for our Clan Ardgowan members. 'Ardgowan's ultimate goal is to revive the golden age of Scotch whisky with long Sherry cask maturation in European oak. 'Our commitment to quality is demonstrated by investing millions of pounds in our bespoke Infinity Casks years before the distillery was built. 'Producing whisky is all about time and patience, so, as we fill our first casks and the Deputy First Minister opens the site to the public, we look forward to steadily perfecting our Single Malt in the years to come.'
Metro
6 hours ago
- Metro
I found the perfect European destination to escape the heatwave
In true British fashion, I'd always turned my nose up at the idea of a holiday that didn't involve heat. The UK summer is unreliable at best, and if it wasn't sun, sea and sangria, I didn't want to know. But now, as we sweat through a potentially dangerous heatwave, I can think of nothing but the 'coolcation' that changed my mind. In April, I visited Bergen, Norway's gateway to the fjords, a colourful city nestled between seven mountains and the dazzling western coastline. This Scandinavian jewel may be small, but it punches above its weight with an abundance of natural beauty, history and a surprisingly eclectic food scene. After spending four days there, I'd recommend Bergen to anyone looking to escape the heat this summer. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Bergen is easily accessible from the UK, with direct 90-minute flights from Manchester and London's Gatwick and Heathrow airports. The city is known as 'the gateway to the fjords' for its location between the two largest fjords in the country — the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord. Norway is renowned for these deep, water-filled valleys, carved by glaciers. The Scandinavian nation has over 1,000 of these scenic bad boys, more than any other country in the world. I travelled to the Sognefjord via the Flåm Railway. Widely regarded as one of Europe's most beautiful train journeys, it passes snow-covered rock faces, cascading waterfalls and tiny mountain farms before winding its way down to the fjord's shore. Before setting off, I checked the forecast only for my heart to sink when I saw highs of 8°C in Flåm, where I would be boarding a boat across two of the Sognefjord's branches. But once on deck, insulated by a turtleneck, a fleece, a sweater and a puffer coat, I soon forgot about the wind biting at my nose and fingers. The electric boat slid silently through the narrow passages, flanked by towering cliffs and lush green forest. I craned my neck to marvel at the unspoiled landscape and, busy taking it all in, I could barely feel the cold. Western Norway is having its moment, but international interest brings the challenges of mass tourism. Stein Ove Rolland, CEO of Fjord Norway, tells me that tours to this part of the world have become more popular in recent years, as experienced travellers seek something different to Europe's better-known destinations. Experts believe the rise is linked to the growing number of travellers looking to explore colder climates. Known as coolcations, Google searches for 'cooler holidays' soared by 300% between 2023 and 2024, and interest shows no sign of waning. Bergen, where temperatures rarely rise above 20°C even at the height of summer, definitely qualifies for this category. Most tourists arrive between June and August, but there were already plenty of visitors during my trip in April. The train journey was comfortably busy, but the boat was nearly full, and the local bus at the other end of the fjord struggled to accommodate the influx of passengers. Norway is nervous about welcoming more visitors. A tourism campaign was shelved last year over fears of the environmental impact, while local authorities could soon be allowed to charge tourist tax. In Bergen, the daily number of cruise ship passengers has been capped at 8,000. Stein tells me that while tourism has long been an integral part of the area, balancing the needs of guests and locals can be difficult. He says the region is doing everything it can to protect the natural environment. One way they are doing this, he says, is encouraging tourists to visit in the colder months. 'We no longer market the summer season specifically, but highlight how unique it is to experience Bergen and the surrounding areas in spring, autumn, and winter,' he explains. 'In these seasons, there is more space, the nature is just as spectacular, and the food reflects the different times of year.' Bergen is officially Europe's rainiest city, averaging more than 200 rainy days per year, thanks to the surrounding mountains, which trap moisture coming in from the North Sea. But, thanks to the climate, it's perfect for nature lovers. Ulriken, the tallest of Bergen's mountains at 643 metres, can be hiked in one to two hours. A cable car offers a stunning view of the windblown ridges and inhospitable North Sea that surround the city. Mount Fløyen, meanwhile, boasts dense forest and winding trails within minutes of the city centre, with a funicular that goes right to the summit. I was lucky with the weather, as locals often reminded me; it stayed dry for two of the three days I spent in Bergen. When the rain finally came, on my last day in the city, it poured. But despite my aversion to damp climes, I found Bergen striking in the deluge. The city's vibrant colours — rust-red roofs and emerald forest — held their own amid the silvery sheen of rain, and the downpour created a hushed atmosphere that was strangely comforting. As a fair-weather traveller, I'm not used to packing for cold climates. Bergen in spring can experience everything from chilly temperatures to mild, pleasant days with rain and sunshine. The essential clothing items I recommend packing for a tripare: A fleece or wool sweater A windproof and waterproof jacket A hat and gloves Comfortable, waterproof shoes Short and long-sleeved t-shirts for layering As the rain moved in, I explored the narrow streets of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the centre of Bergen, dating back to the 12th-century. The area was once central to the German Hanseatic League's trading empire because of stockfish, Norway's traditional (and highly divisive) dried cod. Today, Bryggen's medieval legacy is preserved by the characteristic wooden buildings, restored with traditional methods, their colourful facades housing artisan shops, restaurants, and artist studios. The district is home to the oldest restaurant in Bergen, Bryggen Tracteusted. The building has served many purposes, including as a courthouse and a school, since the 1700s. Now, it serves local dishes including fish soup with delicate dumplings, juicy beetroot tartare and, of course, stockfish with seasonal trimmings. Sloping heavily towards the harbour because of its age, Bryggen Tracteusted exudes old-world charm. Wood panelled walls, stone floors, candlelit rooms and fur throws draped on the back of chairs create a cosy retreat from the rain-slicked streets. The four-course tasting menu, priced at 825 NKO (roughly £60), is as generous as it is delicious. The manager joked that the building tilts not from age, but so guests can roll home full and happy. More Trending Back in my hotel room, warmed and full from creamy artichoke soup, white wine steamed cabbage and nutty rye bread, I scrolled through social media posts of a sunshine-filled weekend back home. I didn't feel an ounce of jealousy. Bergen, with its historic charm, natural beauty and cosy atmosphere, had warmed my spirit — even if it hadn't quite done the same for my body. Getting there I flew direct to Bergen with Jet2 from Manchester Airport. Return flights for May 2026 are priced at £131 per person one-way, and the airline also offers direct flights to the city from six other UK airports: Bristol, Edinburgh, London Stansted, Birmingham, Leeds Bradford and Newcastle, alongside three and four-night-long package breaks in the city. Meanwhile, Norwegian offers direct return flights from London Gatwick from £114, via Skyscanner. From Bergen airport, it's a 20-minute drive to the city centre, or take the Bergen Light Rail. The journey takes around 40 minutes and is free with a Bergen Card, which also offers discounts on some museums, attractions and restaurants. Prices start at £30 for a 24-hour pass, and a four-day pass will set you back around £54. Where to stay I stayed at Thon Hotel Orion, a four-star establishment where rooms start from £153 per night. Just a four-minute walk from Bryggen and ten minutes from Bergen's main square, the hotel has a gym, a bar and complimentary breakfast, with rooms ranging from a standard twin to a suite with a living room and kitchenette. Thon Hotel Orion received a 2025 TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice Award, granted to properties ranked within the top 10% on the website. Ellie Hutchings was a guest of Jet2 and Visit Bergen. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: My unexpected love affair with Switzerland's 'most boring' city MORE: Spain's little-known village with 'hanging houses' is a hidden gem overlooked by tourists MORE: 'Charming' city in Spain is a lesser-known gem with £40 flights and 'hardly any tourists'
