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Quaich
In its traditional form a quaich – from
the Gaelic for "cup" – is a small two-handled wooden
vessel for drinking whisky. Highlanders would carry a quaich in
their sporran, taking restorative drams to combat the icy winds
of winter, often dipping oatmeal into it for added sustenance.
During the 18th century many clan chieftains and wealthy landowners
commissioned gold, silver and pewter quaichs, handsomely engraved
with Celtic patterns or with their family crest.
The Keepers of the Quaich is an exclusive society
founded by leading Scottish distillers, dedicated to upholding
the traditions, quality and style of Scotch whisky. "The
Keepers", as they are known, have a specially designed tartan
and their own large silver quaich, brought out on all ceremonial
occasions. New members, who include people in the Scotch whisky
industry the world over, are presented with a smaller version
of the quaich on being made a Keeper.
Quietude
Most malt whisky warehouses – and Aberlour
is no exception – are peaceful places, allowing the slumbering
spirit to age without unnecessary interruption or distraction.
Like Rip Van Winkle, the maturing Aberlour Single Malt lies soundly
sleeping in its shady glen as the long years pass – 10, 15,
20, even 30 – letting time and the Highland air work their
magic.
There was a time, during the 1980s, when the tranquillity
was briefly shattered by the sound of bagpipes. Kenny Fraser,
brewer and later distillery manager at Aberlour, took advantage
of the quiet afternoons to practise his bagpipes in the warehouse.
Some, in particular Kenny, claimed that the sound of the pipes
had a miraculous effect on the whisky. Others are happy that peace
has been restored.
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