One Tuesday in summer, when the sun was splitting the stones in Glasgow, I boarded a plane to Orkney. The weather in Kirkwall was much more temperate, but what I discovered was a truly fascinating world of food and drink which made her quickly forget about the sun back home.
On this Scran on the Road special, producer Kelly and I spent two days travelling around Orkney, thanks to Orkney Marketing and Orkney.com, where we encountered so many interesting people and places that we couldn't fit it all into one episode.
This is part one, which brings you first, an insight into a modern business with Collin Van Schayk the founder of J Gow Rum, and then a four-generations-old family business when I spoke to Stewart Crichton, MD of Stockans Oatcakes.
Colin is also Chair of Orkney Food and Drink and tells me all about his role and the challenges they need to surmount as an island business and community. He shares his passion for distilling rum and the pirate inspiration that has informed its branding and marketing.
Stewart describes the rich history of Stockan's Oatcakes and how this iconic Scottish triangular oatcake came about. He also suggests ways to serve your oatcakes which may raise an eyebrow or two.
You'll be able to hear part two in the series in the coming weeks which features the one and only Highland Park and a fascinating traditional business, Barony Mill.
We’d love to hear from you about our episodes. Is there someone you’d love to hear us chat to? Let me know.
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If you have an opinion about anything we discuss, get in touch with your comments. Drop us a message on the Scotsman Food and Drink Facebook page, or contact me on Twitter @RosalindErskine or via email using rosalind.erskine@scotsman.com.
Scran is available from all of your favourite podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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