The report estimates Drambuie has a market value of approximately £100m. Morrison Bowmore makes the liqueur, which is a blend of scotch whisky, herbs, spices and honey.
Best known as a key ingredient in a Rusty Nail cocktail, Drambuie goes back to 1746. The story goes Prince Charles Edward Stuart, better known as “Bonnie Prince Charlie” was on the run, after defeat at the Battle of Culloden had ended his hopes of restoring the Stuarts to the throne of Great Britain.
The prince was pursued by the King’s men across the highlands and islands of western Scotland, helped by highland clans. Among them was Clan MacKinnon whose chief, John MacKinnon, helped the prince escape from the Isle of Skye.
In thanks for his bravery the Prince gave MacKinnon the secret recipe to his personal liqueur. That blend would become Drambuie.
