SCOTLAND’S reputation for excellence in the food and drink sector has been bolstered by the announcement of a collaboration between a traditional smokehouse and a renowned distillery.

Glenglassaugh distillery has partnered with Sutherlands of Portsoy to create a luxury smoked salmon infused with Glenglassaugh Peated Torfa single malt whisky.

The product will be made in the traditional Sutherlands of Portsoy method, which has been passed down through the generations of the family-owned firm for more than 100 years. Smoked in a kilnhouse over whisky barrel shavings, before being infused with the single malt, the salmon will be free of artificial chemicals and preservatives.

Standing on the Moray Firth coast, Glenglassaugh’s Peated Torfa was chosen to pair with the the smoked salmon because of its combination of distinct coastal peat and striking spiced fruit flavours.

The Glenglassaugh-infused Sutherlands of Portsoy smoked salmon will be available to purchase from independent retailers and distributed to restaurants and hotels across the UK.

Glenglassaugh distillery, originally founded in 1875, has produced an award-winning range of boutique whiskies since its reopening in 2008.

Master blender Rachel Barrie said: “Glenglassaugh Torfa’s unique smoky flavour is developed using traditional whisky making methods including ingredients of richly peated malted barley dried in the traditional way, over peat infused kilns.

“Infusing the salmon with Glenglassaugh richly peated Torfa balances perfectly with the hand-crafted traditional smoked salmon, both enhanced by the Moray Coast sea air, natural waters and traditional ingredients.”

Sutherlands of Portsoy have also been commended at industry awards for their smoked salmon.

Managing director Elaine Sutherland added: “We are delighted to be partnering up with Glenglassaugh to produce smoked salmon flavoured with Torfa.

“Through five generations, the Sutherland family have been smoking the finest salmon using traditional methods for over 110 years. The rich peated flavour of the Torfa compliments the unique flavour of our smoked salmon and we believe it will become a great addition to our range and a product enjoyed by discerning customers everywhere.”