A Championship Triple for ScotlandWhisky's Embassies

Press release issued: 14th July 2008

Whisky and Golf lovers will be able to discuss scorecards over a favourite dram at another high profile addition to the Scotch Whisky Embassy network - the world famous Kingsbarns golf links - the national whisky tourism initiative, ScotlandWhisky, announced today.

Kingbarns, near St Andrews, becomes the third of Scotland's renowned championship golf courses to join the network.    The Westin Turnberry resort, host of the 2009 Open championship, and Gleneagles, venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup, are already members of the exclusive group.

Scotch Whisky Embassies are specially selected and must meet strict quality criteria, including staff trained in Scotch Whisky appreciation.  

Chris Conway from ScotlandWhisky said:

"Golf and Whisky are synonymous with Scotland. Visitors look for and expect to experience the best of both when they holiday here.  With Embassy status having been achieved by all three of these world renowned courses we can be confident that is exactly what visitors will encounter."

Conway went on to say:

"Being able to promote Scotland as both the home of Scotch Whisky and Golf is a tremendous asset to the country.  With both being central 'pillars' to next year's Homecoming it is a great opportunity to encourage more golf clubs to become Whisky Embassies and maximise the benefits that next year will bring." 

Scott Roberts the Clubhouse Manager at Kingsbarns Golf Links, speaking of the course, said:

"I doubt there is anywhere better to relax and savour Scotland's greatest products: Golf and Whisky."

"The Scottish experience needs to extend beyond the course into the clubhouse.  That's where, at Kingsbarns, our trained team can offer a warm and knowledgeable welcome.  They can guide visitors through our wide selection of whiskies and find the Scotch whisky that suits their palate best."

Roberts further explained:

"Kingsbarns Golf Links was created to provide a unique and memorable Scottish golfing experience in this very special corner of the ancient Kingdom of Fife. The challenge of the Links course is complemented by its dramatic coastal setting.

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Notes to Editors

• 73 hotels, golf courses, bars and restaurants are now officially recognised as Scotch Whisky 'Embassies', having met specific quality criteria, including staff trained in Scotch Whisky.   Further information about ScotlandWhisky and its Embassy network is available at www.scotlandwhisky.com. 
• Embassy accredited businesses are specially selected by SCOTLANDWHISKY they have great Whisky bars and staff who have passed a day long course and exam in the sales and appreciation of Whisky.  For more information see http://www.scotlandwhisky.com/trade/873840/
• ScotlandWhisky is supported by The Scotch Whisky Association, The Scotch Whisky Experience, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, VisitScotland and its membership.
• In 2007 over 1.2 million tourists visited a Whisky-themed attraction in Scotland, an increase of 2.6% over the previous three years.  They spent £22.4 million, up 17.8% over the same period. (Data from ScotlandWhisky's survey of June 2008.)
• The Western Turnberry Resort will host the 2009 Open Championship as part of the Homecoming Scotland national campaign.
• Gleneagles Hotel will host the 40th Ryder cup competition in 2014