Men in Kilts: A Journey Through Scotland with Sam and Graham

Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham

Watching the first episode of "Men in Kilts," starring Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish from the beloved show "Outlander," I was immediately captivated by the breathtaking landscapes and infectious energy of our two hosts. Scotland's rich history and culture unfold before our eyes as Sam and Graham embark on a journey to discover their heritage and explore the culinary and spirited delights of their homeland.

A Taste of Edinburgh

The ancient land of Scotland is home to many culinary treasures. In the capital city of Edinburgh, we learn that the national dish is haggis, a meat pudding made with sheep's heart, liver, and lungs. But Scotland doesn't stop there; it also boasts Angus beef, heirloom potatoes, salmon, oysters, and langoustine.

The city's fine food scene has earned it four Michelin-starred restaurants, one of which is The Kitchin, owned by chef Tom Kitchin. Here, Sam and Graham indulge in a scallop baked in its shell and a braised lamb shoulder with courgette, dishes that showcase the freshness and quality of Scotland's produce.

Exploring the Kingdom of Fife

Leaving the bustling city behind, the duo ventures to the Kingdom of Fife, a picturesque peninsula home to five charming fishing villages. They arrive at Pitenweem, the most active port and once home to the forgotten Rolling Stones founding member Ian Stewart. Here, 95% of the seafood caught is exported to other countries, showcasing the significance of Scotland's coastal bounty.

Catching Dinner with Captain Kirk

While researching this article, I found that, in true Captain Kirk fashion, the very same Kirk Doig narrowly escaped a shipwreck about a year before the filming of the first episode.

Sam and Graham board The Charisma, captained by Kirk Doig, to catch shellfish for their dinner. Back on shore, the pair joins Scottish celebrity chef Tony Singh, who helps them cook up their catch. They create a mouthwatering feast of grilled langoustine topped with seaweed butter and a spicy lobster dish, leaving the hosts speechless with excitement.

The National Drink: Whisky

Whisky is the heart and soul of Scotland, with over a hundred operating distilleries contributing to the UK economy's fourth-largest export. The duo heads to Islay , a small island on the west coast, to explore the Laphroaig Distillery and learn about the intricate process of creating their signature smoky whiskies.

Digging for Peat

At the heart of Islay's whiskies lies the peat, a decomposed vegetation that has been used as fuel for generations. Sam and Graham get their hands dirty, digging for peat in a bog with John Campbell, the distillery manager. The peat, which looks like nothing more than mud, is a crucial element in whisky production, imparting its distinct flavor to the beloved spirit.

Biking and Tasting

To fully appreciate Islay's beauty, Sam and Graham opt for a scenic bike ride to the distillery. Once there, they immerse themselves in the whisky-making process, rolling in the barley drying rooms and tasting the grains at various stages. The experience leaves a lasting impression, making it impossible for them to enjoy a Laphroaig whisky without reminiscing about their adventure.

Discover Scotland Through Men in Kilts

The first episode of "Men in Kilts" offers viewers a delightful and engaging journey through Scotland's enchanting landscapes, culinary treasures, and spirited history. Sam and Graham's genuine passion and enthusiasm for their homeland are infectious, inviting viewers to dream of their adventures in Scotland. Whether you're a whisky aficionado, a food lover, or simply an admirer of breathtaking landscapes, "Men in Kilts" is a must-watch show that will leave you yearning to explore the wonders of Scotland.