Perthshire's Larder

Perthshire's Larder

Choosing Scottish Tourer and embracing what Scotland has to offer mans you will inevitably delve into the treats that Scotland Produces. Today we have decided to tell you a little more about the small companies that will tantalise those taste buds and leave you desiring more. No matter which route you embark upon with ourselves you will be able to sample many of the local produce we continually bring up in our blogs, website and during the handovers once you’ve booked your holiday.

The fridges within our motorhomes are ideal for you topping up daily as we encourage customers not to overload them. What better excuse than to source fresh, local and extra tasty food and drinks on the go, almost an adult treasure hunt with rewards at every turn. 

• Strawberries simply do not come any better than Scottish. Believe it or not our climate is perfect for growing strawberries. The cooler climate allows the plants and fruit to ripen slowly which brings out the sweetness and the fuller flavour you cannot match anywhere else. One of the most sought after strawberries comes from a local farm which specialises in soft fruit and has done for over 60years. The McIntyre’s have 60 acres just outside Blairgowrie which is season produces strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. Please visit their website for more information and where to purchase their delicious fruit. In the height of summer you will find the strawberries van parked by the Red House Hotel in Coupar Angus. Strawberries potted Archives | James McIntyre and Sons (james-mcintyre.co.uk)

• Heading across to Forfar you will not be disappointed when you find their bridies. The bridie is similar to a pastry however it is made with shortcrust pastry and filled with minced steak, butter and beef suet seasoned with salt and pepper. Prior to being baked the filling is placed on a pastry dough and folded into a semi circle then the edges are crimped. A wee secret tip if the bridie has one hole ion the top it indicates that it is plain however two holes means it contains onions. 
• Crieff has so much to offer for any visitor however you must pop into the strathearn cheese company and sample some of the delights they have on offer.  Strathearn Cheese Co was founded by Drew Watson and Pierre Legar in 2016 and it operates from Cultybraggan near Comrie in Perthshire. For those interested in history this also an old WW11 prisoner of war camp site. Here you will find artisan cheeses made using local milk supplies and local flavours. The cheese itself is a rennet set cheese made with pasteurised cows milk. Each of the cheeses is matured for 4 weeks and then washed in a single malt whiskey brine every second day. It makes for a semi soft cheese and a creamy taste you will want to go back for more. Our favourite having sampled these is the wee Comrie be sure to let us know your favourite on your return. 

• Staying local Wallace 6 Gins is a small family owned business based near Crieff also, the gin being brewed by a man known as Wonka. The name literally says it all, the tastes are unique, exceptional and pure, skip out those additives and delve into a whole different level of gin here. The controlled witch gin is a personal favourite however at Christmas we do also enjoy the limoncello gin liqueur. Be quick with these ones as they are made in very small batches and you don’t want to miss out. Store 1 — Wallace 6 Gin
• If its some sparkle you are after head over to Cairney Jewllery this is a fantastic local small business started by a fantastic young woman Jade Cairney who makes a variety of bespoke items. From earrings, bracelets, rings to necklaces you will be sure to pick up a quality special piece to mark your holiday in Scotland. See Cairney Jewellry on Facebook and Instagram for more information. 
• If tradition is your thing then heading over to Clootie McToot to pick up a homemade dumpling will warm your heart and soul. These may be old fashioned puddings however they have a special Scottish charm. Opened and ran by a lady called Michelle Maddox who originally started her business when her son wanted to do a stall at his school fare. Never did she imagine it would spring a whole new business for her and her family in 2017.

 Perthshire alone has so much to offer in terms of local shopping. Prior to departing with ourselves why not acquaint yourself with some of the companies listed above. In the current climate there is no better feeling supporting a small business and knowing how appreciated your custom is. There are so many local butchers to stock up for you BBQ included within your motorhome you will never be short of meat supplies. These can be found in most villages and are all exceptionally good quality. For more information on routes and motorhomes available to hire in 2021 please visit our website. www.scottishtourer.co.uk  Please keep an eye out for our next blog of seafood and local stops in Scotland around the west coast which is of course our most popular route for customers.