A Journey Through Whisky: Kingsbarns and Seaton House In Collaboration

It’s five o’clock somewhere, right? In this case, at the stroke of five, I hurried into Seaton House’s Bow Butts Bar for an evening of special cocktails and canapes. I will admit — I am not one to frequent a drink anywhere my feet don’t stick to the floor — heh, hem… Aikmans — so I was grateful for a more refined change of pace. 

Bow Butts Bar, located on The Scores, hosts a picturesque view over West Sands and is a welcome escape from the blistering wind. The space was tastefully decorated with rich greens and burnt-orange touches, tied together with deep wood and warm, sultry lighting — like a more well-lit gentleman’s club. I felt the welcoming hospitality upon entering, which set the tone for a truly enjoyable evening. 

The event was in collaboration with Kingsbarns Distillery, which is located about a twenty-minute drive outside of St Andrews, and produces some top-notch gin and single-malt whisky. Again, I will admit, I have a very limited palate for whisky; all I know is not to mix it with soda! Thankfully, we were educated about the distillation process. “Single” malt means it originates from a single distillery, and I learned that this is an iconic feature of many Scottish whiskies.  

Kingsbarns and Seaton House put together a drinks menu carefully curated for every taste. I tried a couple of options and am happy to report that they were all beautifully crafted. A favourite — and featured in the photo above — is the Darnley’s Spritz (£15). A twist on a Hugo Spritz, this drink was made with Darnley’s Original Gin and topped with soda water and white wine — perfect for a patio and to sip over some delicious gossip. Although I thought I might miss the elderflower notes of the Hugo, this drink delivered a bright, zippy, and refreshing sip — no sweetness necessary. 

Next up, I tried the Smouldering Shore (£15), which was made with Kingsbarns Coaltown whisky. A sweet twist on an Old Fashioned, this drink features notes of smoke and salted caramel with a herbal aftertaste. I also picked up on strong orange flavours, enhanced by the tasty twist of peel to garnish the drink. This drink was bold — it packed a real punch! Sipping it, I felt like I was about to sign a big business deal or golf a round on the Old Course. 

Finally, I tried the Seaton House Sour (£15), an easier sip than the Smouldering Shore. This twist on a Pisco Sour was bright with a botanical twist and featured Kingsbarns Balcomie whisky. This lighter, fruity whisky had notes of honey and citrus, and combined with the cinnamon, would make for the perfect nightcap. 

An assortment of appetisers floated around as the evening progressed, all complementary. 

My favourite was some delicious fried olives — cheesy, rich, and addictive. Like the elevated older sister of the fried pickle, these briny olives paired well with my zingy Spritz, and I felt oh so refined! 

I snapped some great Instagram photos — I know, self-absorbed — and had a wonderful evening sipping on some phenomenal drinks and munching on some nice bites. If you’re looking for an elegant date spot or a place to impress your parents on a surprise visit to St Andrews, Bow Butts Bar makes for a great pick! Plus, if another collaboration with Kingsbarns happens in the future, I would highly recommend attending.

Photo: Fiona McAllister