Raising a glass to the region’s best

Introducing the local legends creating charismatic drinks served at Gleneagles Townhouse.

With a range of stellar suppliers located on our doorstep, our Bar Manager, Stef is spoiled for choice when it comes to creating memorable drinks menus. All good news for those guests settling into The Spence restaurant for dinner or heading to Lamplighters for the evening, with our luxurious list of cocktails and beers swelling with local artisans who create tipples worthy of exploration. 

Among these are Matt Johnson and Patrick Jones, the founders of Leith-based brewery Pilot Beer. After meeting while studying for a brewing and distilling masters at Heriot-Watt university, the pair set about creating beers that offered something that stood out from the crowd when they launched in 2013. Almost a decade on and Pilot Beer now has a cult following for its characterful range of cans that we believe are the perfect choice for drinkers at the Townhouse. As well as the malty Vienna pale ale, look out for Pilot’s specially created Gleneagles Townhouse Lager – a refreshing drop defined by its crisp and fruity character. 

Those exploring the cocktail menu may ask what Escubac might be. The answer stems from another welcome find within Edinburgh’s city limits. Operating from a sleek warehouse space in Bankhead, contemporary distiller Sweetdram is the vision of Andrew MacLeod Smith and Daniel Fisher, who have created a series of contemporary tipples, including amaros, smoked rums and the fragrant botanical spirit Escubac. Inspired by an old Tudor recipe, this elegant elixir sits somewhere between an aquavit, gin and herbal liqueur, melding herbal notes, sweet Scottish honey and lemon to spectacular effect. Another sophisticated accent that pops up on our cocktail menu comes courtesy of Pekoe Tea. This Leith-based loose-leaf specialist trades directly with growers around the world, introducing new blends from China, India, Sri Lanka and Kenya to an Edinburgh audience.

All of which ensures that Stef has plenty of luxurious local ingredients to put to good use. Her cocktail creations – along with a life-affirming list of beers, wines, champagnes and spirits – can be enjoyed in two vibrant settings in the Townhouse. The Spence’s all-day restaurant menu serves up everything from Bloody Mary brunches and à la carte lunches to languid dinners that extend into the night, while our rooftop bar, Lamplighters, is a stunning spot to take in skyline views across the city – the perfect backdrop for unforgettable nights out.