The Mash Tun; what a gem

I haven't been to The Grill in Aberdeen, which I'm told is legendary for the 200+ different whiskies it offers, but The Mash Tun must surely rank among whisky aficionados. The Mash Tun may not have 200 whiskies to choose from but it's got some uncommon Speyside malts lining the shelf. We tried Dailuaine and Benrinnes, both of which we liked but have had trouble finding elsewhere. Aside from its malts, The Mash Tun is a also a very charming and cozy place, secreted down a sort of alley off High Street in Aberlour. It's a rounded granite building with cheerful windows that look out onto the River Spey and the rugged hills beyond. Inside is fairly traditional: hardwood flooring & sturdy tables/chair. But there's something elegant and warm about the place too (at least in the evening). I don't know, maybe it was the lighting at the bar! I just know I really liked it there. The feeling one gets when arriving at The Mash Tun for the first time is like finding a tenner in a coat that had been hanging in the closet for the past 6 months.Given that this pub is off the main street, I imagine it's mostly patronized by locals...that's all we met while we were there. And a friendlier lot of folks you won't find anywhere else.Sorry, we didn't eat there, so I can't say anything about their food. But certainly if you like cozy atmosphere, good whisky, friendly service and conversation, and great views all rolled into one, I recommend The Mash Tun!

A User - 11/12/2008 | report this review