As we hear and heed warnings about high pressure over Greenland and cold Arctic air tumbling towards our island, it’s clear seasonal change is afoot.

Officially, the season really should begin on the 21st of December with the winter solstice and the shortest day of the year. But, our Irish and Swedish friends will tell us that November 1st was the day that matters, farmers far and wide would point to Martinmas on the 11th as the marker, and meteorologists will insist that December is the date for your diary.

Here in Harris it’s probably a more phenological and gut feeling thing, as we witness nature’s fading, bemoan the local ferry delays, and realise that the dark nights are well and truly here. So, we’re declaring it now. Light the fires, get the drams in, and let winter begin!

Wherever you are in the world reading this, we wish you a fine season ahead and invite you to read on to discover ways to keep your hearts warm and island spirits high as it all unfolds…

Have a great weekend from all of us here in Harris!

Le gach deagh dhùrachd,

Mike Donald, Chief Storyteller

Our historic single malt whisky takes its name from the Scottish Gaelic word for a native of Harris. Like many words in our language, it can sometime be a little tricky to trip off the tongue. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to pronounce our whisky’s name, let our islanders help you out with a wee film we made. Once you’ve got the hang of it, try it out with friends, family, bartenders, and in your favourite spirits stores this winter…just say The Hearach!

WATCH THE FILM ON VIMEO

When the weather outside is frightful, there are few things more appealing than the prospect of a fireside dram, particularly if you’ve just escaped inclement island weather. The Hearach single malt was made for drinking, and the elegant, complex flavours captured in every glass promise a perfect pour at this time of year.

Gentle aromas of peat smoke give way to notes of toasted malt in your glass as flavours of apple, wildflowers, spice, clotted cream and candied sweets unwind. It’s a true Outer Hebridean whisky and full of local character. Simply order your bottle online or from your nearest stockist, and open to discover more…

DISCOVER THE HEARACH SINGLE MALT

The second expression of our whisky-making brings plenty of warmth to the proceedings this season, thanks to its connections to southern Spain. The Oloroso First Fill Cask Matured single malt draws wonderfully rich, bold, and aromatic flavours from sherry butts sourced from this special region of Andalusia.

The results bring a fine array of winter spices and woodsmoke to the dram, alongside festive notes like cloves, dried oranges and white chocolate. If you’re looking for something which captures a sense of an island Christmas, the one’s for you and yours…

It’s a delicious dram designed to be enjoyed with friends and family so order yours and open to discover more…

DISCOVER THE HEARACH OLOROSO CASK