On this special partner episode of Scran with 'Eat Drink Hebrides' I visited Uist for the first time and had the wonderful opportunity to sample just a little of what this unique island has to offer.
First up I chatted to DJ Cameron from Long Island Retreats. A sixth generation crofter, DJ tells me all about his business and how visitors come from all over to understand their farming methods from field to fork.
DJ explains that despite the challenges of trading on the Western Isles, their high quality product and singular location keeps customers coming back for more.
Next up I met Mihai Huda at Charlie's Bistro in Benbecula. Mihai is a Production Manager at Salar Smokehouse.
He explained how the business came to be and why their product is so sought-after, whilst they tucked into some delicious salmon and scallops.
All that running around Uist is thirsty work y'know - so the next stop was welcome - North Uist Distillery - set up in 2019 by Jonny Ingledew and Kate MacDonald.
It's home to Downpour Gin and in time, some of the first whisky ever to be distilled on the island legally. Whilst there I enjoyed a gin tasting, a tour of the facilities in this historic building and a chat with founder Jonny.
The final stop was at Lochmaddy Bay Prawns located at Clachan Sands where I met Tina Nicholson to hear all about their unique business which was a positive result of the impact of covid-19.
If you are looking for somewhere to get away from it all and enjoy a wonderful welcome and delicious local produce, Uist is for you. You can find out more here: https://www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk/food-and-drink
We’d love to hear from you for the next season’s episodes.
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@jpimedia.co.uk.
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