Pioneering Spirits by David Stirk

This book, written by David Stirk, is a must-read for all whisky fans, particularly those with an interest in independent bottlers.

A new movement gripped the Scotch whisky industry: small to medium-sized distilleries, often independently owned and fiercely singular in their vision and strategy, all striving to make extraordinarily good whisky. But have no fear; this is not a whisky book. There are scant tasting notes and little to no information about the whiskies. Nor does this bok attempt to sway you one way or the other on which whisky to buy. Instead, this is a jolly jaunt, a cheerful trek around all four corners of Scotland.

Having lived in Scotland in Scotland for most of his adult life, industry veteran David Stirk considers much of life in this small coutnry and how the world-conquering drink, known everywhere - except in its home country - as Scotch, slots into the story.