As it looks forward to the trout fishing season commencing, Karma Lake of Menteith – situated right on the shore of the Lake of Menteith in Stirlingshire, in a charming and picturesque area known as “The Trossachs” – is offering guests another very special reason to visit its Scottish haven.

It’s becoming increasingly known for its fantastic curated wine and spirits collection, which includes a newly launched Karma Traveller’s Gin, alongside delicious red wines such as the “Grand Vin de Bordeaux”.

With a velvety taste, the Grand Vin de Bordeaux is notable for its extraordinary artwork on the label, designed by Australian artist, Helen Norton, depicting a creative rendition of the opening scenes of The Tempest, by William Shakespeare.

Other red wines on offer at the Hotel, presided over by experienced General Manager Chris Diplock, together with Head Chef, Joe Peden, include a 2012 Chateau Jean Voisin St. Emillion Grand Cru, a 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc blend produced at a 14 hectare vineyard around the St Emillion chateau, using no pesticides or herbicides.

Hailing from Italy is a 2018 Le Miccine Carduus Toscana IGT. Named after the Latin for Thistle, to reflect the winemaker’s Scottish heritage, this is a delicious Tuscan wine which is both spicy and plumby.

Made with carefully selected, globally sourced ingredients, such as Tuscan junipers, Balinese sage, Indian peppercorn and French orange peel, Karma Group’s new signature “Travellers Gin” has already made its mark since launch, being awarded a silver medal at the Global Spirits Masters 2021 in the premium gin category.

Chris Diplock commented: “Our Karma Group collection of wines and spirits is a unique selling point, which along with our well stocked Whisky Vault containing many rare Malts from all over Scotland, ensures that our guests are never short of a new drink experience when they stay with us. Whether it’s a glass of red with a juicy steak, a G&T as an aperitif, or a peaty or smoky Malt to savour after dinner by the fire, it’s all the perfect complement to our cuisine, lovingly created by Head Chef Joe Peden.”

Having moved from England to the nearby Trossachs village of Brig O’ Turk when he was ten years old, Joe loves the entire area, and, since taking up the Head Chef position, has been busy connecting with the many excellent local suppliers to be found on Karma Lake of Menteith’s doorstep, including the trout fishery.

“Guests can enjoy fresh trout straight out the lake during the season. It really is the very best of Scotland on a plate,” said Chris.

Said Head Chef Joe Peden: “The Grand Vin de Bordeaux is the perfect accompaniment to one of our locally sourced venison dishes which we are offering in The Menteith Restaurant at the moment, with the venison coming from Rednock Estate just along the road.”

“We are extremely lucky to work with such superior produce here.”

Joe finished by saying “If you’re interested in having a special meal, paired with wine, gin or whisky, maybe for a significant birthday or anniversary, just let us know and we’ll endeavour to come up with something amazing for you.”

Karma Group owner and founder, John Spence, is a real wine connoisseur, committed to creating a quality range of wines and spirits to offer his guests.

“Gin is still very much in vogue, a spirit continuing to enjoy a huge resurgence, so John wanted to have his own gin too,” said Chris. “We are really pleased our Travellers Gin has had such an impressive debut, receiving a prestigious award on launch. It keeps selling out here in Scotland but rest assured, we always order more!”

“Expect a warm spicy flavour with a touch of citrus, together with a clean dry finish when you try it.”

For further details on short breaks and dining experiences at Karma Lake of Menteith (some of which may be accompanied by live music performances), please check out the website and social media.

The Scottish Trout Fishing Season traditionally commences on 15TH March.

W: Karma Lake of Menteith

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