Burn’s Night at Murray McDavid

Jan 19, 2023 | News

Here at Murray McDavid this month, we have been thinking about ‘Rabbie Burns’ Night – an evening every Scot has marked in their diary.

Celebrated on the 25th of January each year, Burn’s Night is a global celebration of the life and poetry of the famed Scots bard, Robert Burns, as well as all things Scottish.

Robert Burns is often regarded as the national poet of Scotland, with one of his most famous works being the much-loved song ‘Auld Lang Syne’. His poems and lyrics often had themes of love and nature.

‘Address to a Haggis’ is one of Burns most notable poems, expressing his appreciation of the dish. The poem is recited and a toast to the haggis is raised afterward. It is often rumoured that haggis is its own species, a wee beastie that roamed the Scottish Highlands, with the last of the haggis being kept in captivity…

Robert Burns
Dean Jode, Burn’s Night 2015.

Haggis is the national dish of Scotland: a savoury pudding made of sheep’s pluck, onion, oatmeal, suet, and spices. It is a hearty meal that is usually served with neeps and tatties (turnip and mashed potato). A whole section of the supper is dedicated to the ‘great chieftain o’ the pudding race’.

Burn’s Night is a fun-filled evening for all with Scottish food, drink, and entertainment. It is regarded as Scotland’s other national day besides St. Andrew’s Day. Of course, Scotch whisky is an integral part of the evening with Burns being said to be a fan of the spirit. There is a specific order of service to Burn’s Supper which includes several toasts, poetry, and Scottish food – most notably the haggis.

The entertainment at a Burns supper can come in many forms: poetry, a ceilidh, and whisky-tasting sessions. We have hosted a few Murray McDavid Burn’s Nights that have included tasting sessions with Dean Jode, Head of Whisky Creations.

What better drink to pair with haggis, neeps, and tatties than Scotch whisky?

Our Brand Ambassador, Dan, recommends:

Sherry Cask Craft – The classic sherry style of whisky maturation for this dram has crafted a dram full of indulgence and luxury. The Spanish Sherry casks have produced a symphony of luscious and rich fruity flavours with a long finish and mellow sweet spice. The sweet spice of this whisky will work to combat and compliment the full flavour of Scotland’s delicious haggis, neeps, and tatties.

Looking for something a little more out there?

Our 11y/o Glen Garioch finished in Hungarian Tokaji casks will serve as an amplification of the already demonstrated complexities of the traditional Burns day meal. The subtle light-honied malt will help the thick spicy haggis explode with flavour. This coupled with the delicate sweet oak spice finish, the sweet neeps, and the creamy mash will create a very memorable meal. Slainte!