TASTE OF ORKNEY
There are many ways to experience Orkney, but few will deny that by taste is one of the best methods of all. Our food and drink sector is renowned across the world for good reason, thanks to an exquisite output, which is coupled with a unique and instantly recognisable brand. The Taste of Orkney label brings together our diverse producers in an unbeatable recipe, which has one key ingredient — authenticity.
In the 31 years since its formation in 1993, Orkney Food and Drink has worked hard to establish the county’s reputation for excellent eating and delicious drinking.
Project manager Edgar Balfour says: “This hasn’t happened by accident, but by carefully planned programmes of events and activities over the decades.
“The very recognisable and premium image projected by the Taste of Orkney stand, which is now regularly seen at shows throughout the UK, is the envy of many other regions in Scotland.
“We can’t sit on our hands though, and the intention of the board is to continue building the brand in the years to come.”
The high standard creates premium products. Though covered in rolling fields, and surrounded by deep waters, Orkney is a rural location where mass production is not possible — nor desirable.
Time, skill and love have gone into each product to assure the best customer experience. This can mean a slightly higher price — but always an end product that Orkney Food and Drink members are collectively proud of.
What Orkney Food and Drink provides is a platform to promote isles producers across the UK. They can be found exhibiting at trade fairs in Glasgow, in Birmingham, and of course at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh, where their stands overflow with the rich variety of Orcadian produce.
The isles have a long history of distilling and brewing, creating the finest whiskies and beers. More recently, gin, wine and rum makers have hit the market.
The nutritious Orcadian grass feeds herds of cattle and flocks of sheep, which in turn make highly sought-after Orkney beef and lamb.
Our milk is also used to create an array of cheeses and ice creams that would conclude any fine meal.
Ovens that bake exceptional loaves and local delicacies, such as bere bannocks or other flat breads, are now joined by sourdough as new companies arise and older ones diversify.
Nestled at the meeting point of the abundant Atlantic Ocean and the brimming North Sea, Orkney’s fish is unsurpassed. We are famed for everything from salmon, lobster and crab, to fresh prawns and scallops, and other catches hauled by local fishing boats and prepared by knowledgeable local chefs.
These foods are also preserved on the islands, packaged and made available, UK wide and internationally.
Orkney Food and Drink places these products at the centre of each of the local festivals, from the Folk Festival in May to the St Magnus Festival in summer, and also the Science Festival in September.
The county’s agricultural shows — held in August and a highlight of the local calendar — are an opportunity to see tables and stalls packed with premium produce from the Taste of Orkney brand.
To recognise your favourite of Orkney’s food and drink producers, make sure to cast your vote in the Taste of Orkney Awards.