Colonsay tipple is toast of the Lord of the Isles

Locals and visitors heading for Colonsay got an advanced taste of the island with the local brewery offering on board sampling sessions on CalMac's MV Lord of the Isles.

Colonsay claims to be the smallest island in the world with its own brewery.

Founded in 2007, the Colonsay Brewery produces around 50,000 litres a year in three styles: a lager, an IPA and an 80 shilling. The company employs ten percent island's working population.

The beer is distributed by Forteiths of Oban and Gordon and Macphail, Director, Keith Bonnington said:

"We are making steady inroads into the market and every opportunity to showcase Colonsay Brewery's products like this helps spread the word. Small batch brewed beers are becoming increasing popular, and we believe that Colonsay beers are some of the best on the market.

"The quality of the island water and the sea air help give all three beers a distinctive flavour."

Caledonian MacBrayne's commitment to sourcing and serving Scottish produce was recognised with a nomination at this year's Scottish Food and Drink Awards.

The MV Lord of the Isles is also just one of ten of the company's major vessels to have gained VisitScotland's Taste Our Best accreditation this year, for having more than than 50 per cent locally sourced ingredients in their on board menus.

"We are committed to stocking local produce on our vessels where we can. The areas we serve boast some of the best food and drink in the country and we are delighted to help local businesses showcase their products to help them grow," said Caledonian MacBrayne's Onboard Development Manager, Anne Mitchell.

Colonsay Beers are available to buy at Dobbies Garden Centres and a number of good beer specialists with distribution expected to grow through the rest of this year.

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