Aroha Jakicevich recently undertook a journey with her father Jak through the distilleries of Scotland, pausing for an investiture steeped in tradition.
Embarking on a pilgrimage to Scotland, the birthplace of whisky, holds a profound allure for any enthusiast. Raised on tales narrated by my father of distant distilleries and the mystical Scottish Highlands, the idea of tracing those stories back to their origins was an alluring prospect.
Our adventure began on a crisp Edinburgh day, as autumn whispered through the cobblestone city streets and gothic spires. In just a few days, we would find ourselves within the walls of Blair Athol Castle in Pitlochry, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This was the moment that brought us across the world, my father Jak having been invited to become a Keeper of the Quaich. Bestowed upon those who have devoted their lives to championing Scottish whisky, the honour was a testament to his dedication and passion.
The Keepers of the Quaich is an exclusive and international society that recognises those who have shown outstanding commitment to the Scotch whisky industry. Membership is extended by invitation only, following a stringent vetting process conducted by a select committee. The committee diligently reviews each nominee's contributions to the world of Scotch whisky, ensuring that only those who have truly championed and influenced the industry are inducted.
The society boasts members from diverse backgrounds – master distillers, whisky experts, writers, enthusiasts, with each having left a lasting mark on the whisky world. To stand among them is to be counted in a lineage of guardians of Scotch whisky's heritage and future. There, in the grandeur of Blair Castle, my father was inducted as a Keeper of the Quaich.
With the formalities behind us, we hit the road, weaving through the countryside and navigating narrow, single-track gravel lanes. Flanked by oak trees, winding roads opened up to bright blue skies and rolling hills of golden barley. In 25 days, we explored 30 stunning distilleries, each visit debunking myths and reshaping our understanding of whisky making. Now that we’re home, it’s time to sit down at Dida’s with a dram or two and share a few tales.
Here’s a thought: come on into Dida’s on Jervois Road and try some of our whiskies; it is, after all where Jak, Keeper of the Quaich, likes to hang out. Slàinte! (Aroha Jakicevich)
Didas Wine Lounge, 60 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 2813, www.didaswinelounge.co.nz
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Published: March 2024