The Sustainable Cocktails of Eilean Shona: Episode 3

For the final instalment of our Eilean Shona cocktail series, we begin on the morning of our second day.

Our guests gathered at Otter Bay, wrapped in dry robes and swimsuits, ready to take the plunge (quite literally) into the still, glassy waters surrounding the island. The bay was calm, with only the faintest ripples brushing against the shore. Any early apprehension quickly gave way to laughter as everyone threw themselves into the experience.

Some braved the cold for only a few moments, while the truly fearless stayed in longer, focusing on their breathing and letting their bodies acclimatise to the icy temperatures. You can find more about cold water swimming here!

Afterwards, to warm up, guests were treated to a Regenerative Bloody Mary, spiced with The Pickle House’s signature mix and garnished with a sheet of nori. It was a rich, umami blend of flavours, the perfect distraction from slightly numb fingers and toes. The group gathered in the sauna afterwards, cocktails in hand, chatting and sharing stories as warmth slowly returned to their skin.

Recharged and invigorated, we laced up our hiking boots once more and set out for the next part of the day, tree planting. As many of you know, Sapling’s very first tree-planting party took place right here on Eilean Shona, when the community came together to reforest the island after devastating forest fires. Returning years later to continue that ceremony, planting ten new native trees, was a truly special moment.

To mark the occasion, Tidge had prepared a fig-flavoured Velvet Liqueur, served ice-cold as a well-earned treat after our guests’ efforts.

The trip came to a close on the beach, with the rhythmic sound of waves crashing behind us. Tidge served two final cocktails to accompany a seafood meal prepared by Tim, a Raspberry Cosmopolitan, made with our Raspberry & Hibiscus Vodka, and the Highland Spritz, a final ode to Scotland. The spritz was crafted using a Cranachan soda, a nod to the traditional Scottish dessert of raspberries, oats, and cream.

And just like that, our journey came full circle. Fourteen cocktails in two days, moments of connection, adventure, and celebration woven through every sip.

Now it’s your turn to try them.

Sapling Bloody Mary

40ml Sapling Regenerative Vodka

100ml Tomato Juice

Pinch chilli flakes

10ml Lemon Juice

A couple dash Scottish hot sauce

Pinch Scottish sea salt

Method: Build all ingredients in a highball glass with cubed ice. Taste and season to your preference. Garnish with a small sheet of nori.

Velvet Schnapps

40ml Sapling Vodka

15ml Fig Liqueur