Cocktails & Canapes on the Caledonian Canal
End your day with liqueurs served on deck as the stars come out over the canal.
Good living and gracious entertaining are the hallmarks of the social scene aboard barge cruises, and the Scottish Highlander is no exception. While cruising along Scotland’s magnificent Caledonian Canal, I had the pleasure of sampling three handcrafted cocktails from the Scottish Highlander’s curated beverage menu. Hostess Steph, seen here, stepped in as “Barge Bartender” on a late Tuesday afternoon, chatting with guests as she muddled and mixed made-to-order aperitifs.
Meanwhile, Chef Charlotte tantalized our taste buds with the most captivating of canapes, such as the “Tipsy Shrimp” seen below, which were addictive bites of smoked salmon topped off with cayenne-dusted shrimp layered atop toasted bread squares, and finished with cream cheese and chives. Absolutely delicious, and the perfect accompaniment to Steph’s exquisite tipples!
While making our drinks, Steph introduced the boat’s extensive library of whiskeys, explaining that the onboard selection varies with seasonality, availability, and guest’s preferences. The extensive inventory spanned the spirit’s signature flavors; some whiskeys were smokey and peaty, yet others were sweeter and warmer. Braemare had a mellow taste, while Aberlour’s flavor was long lasting with a spicy finish. Laphroig, known for its peat-filtered bouquet, packed an especially marshy wallop, and the Jura Superstition ended on a ladylike note with a gentle aroma.
The cocktail menu for the afternoon featured three beverages as seen here; one a classic Scottish cocktail, another a “mocktail”, and the third option a drink exclusive to the Scottish Highlander! Hostess Steph was kind enough to pass along the recipe for all three drinks as a special gift to Barge Lady guests. These and many more gourmet delights await you on the Scottish Highlander!
The Scotch Royale
- 1.5 oz Scotch
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 dash Angostura Bitters
- Chilled Champagne
The Temperate Strawberry
- 4 parts strawberry puree
- 1 part raspberry coulis
- Splash of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar syrup
- Soda water
- Basil leaves
Blend the first four the ingredients in a blender, top off with soda water to taste, and garnish with basil leaves
The Ginger Highlander
Exclusive to the Scottish Highlander’s beverage program!
- 4 tablespoons Triple Sec
- 4 tablespoons Bacardi Gold
- 8 tablespoons Crabbie’s Ginger Wine
- Fresh lime
- Soda water
Pour the first three ingredients over ice with a squeeze of lime, top off with soda water to taste
