The ICON - Issue 9 by Rocco Forte Hotels

STORIES FROM THE BALMORAL, EDINBURGH’S ICONIC HOTEL Spring/Summer 2022 - Issue No.9

A WARM WELCOME FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER - CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS - IN CONVERSATION WITH: CAMERON EWEN - THE SEASON OF ROYAL JUBILATION - SPOTLIGHT ON: THE BALMORAL’S ART COLLECTION FATHER’S DAY GIFT EXPERIENCES - #BALMORALMOMENTS

Spring/Summer - Issue No. 9

A warm welcome from our General Manager

Edinburgh welcomes the Summer months with open arms, as the city comes alive with a calendar of events for everyone, locals and tourists alike. The Balmoral is excited to introduce it’s Season of Royal Jubilation, highlighting all things royal in celebration of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, marking the glamorous and spirited life of Her Majesty on her 70th year of service. In this issue our concierge team has pulled together their top seasonal recommendations of things to do in the city; we raise a dram in SCOTCH as our Whisky Ambassador Cameron tells us whats in store for SCOTCH this Summer, we celebrate the Season of Royal Jubilation and May Mathews, Specialist at Bonhams, explores our wonderful art collection on display within the hotel. Join us over the coming months for some unforgettable experiences. I wish you a wonderful Summer ahead.

Richard Cooke, General Manager

CONTRIBUTORS

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Richard Cooke

Cameron Ewen

May Mathews

General Manager

Whisky Ambasador of SCOTCH

Specialist at Bonhams

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CONTENTS

IN CONVERSATION WITH CAMERON EWEN, WHISKY

AMBASSADOR

SPOTLIGHT ON:

AT SCOTCH

THE BALMORAL’S ART COLLECTION

6 CONCIERGE

Cameron chats us through whats next for

27 #BALMORALMOMENTS

SCOTCH this Summer. May Mathews, Specialist at Bonhams

RECOMMENDS

stopped by to take a look at The Balmoral’s impressive collection.

Recommendations from our concierge on the best places to

discover in Edinburgh in the coming months.

FATHER’S DAY GIFT EXPERIENCE 17 THE SEASON OF ROYAL

A range of gifts perfect for Fathers Day this year. @thebalmoral

JUBILATION Join us in celebrating the season with some royal experiences to mark the Queens 70th year of service.

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CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS Spring/Summer - Issue No. 9

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THE ART OF WALLPAPER MORRIS & CO. Dovecot Studios Now to 11th June Explore the legacy of William Morris in over 130 original wallpapers from the Morris & Co. archives. William Morris (1834-1896) was a poet, craftsman, fervent socialist, and one of the world’s most successful pattern designers. This exhibition focuses on his legacy and includes framed original samples, as well as interior layouts. The exhibition will place the visitor into the 19th and 20th-century interiors these wallpapers were made for. It is the first time many of these historic samples have been exhibited in the UK. www.dovecotstudios.com

VAN GOGH ALIVE

Festival Square Now to 17th July Prepare to transcend time and space as you accompany Van Gogh on a journey through the Netherlands, Arles, Saint Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise, where he created many of his timeless masterpieces. Set to an evocative classical score, a thrilling display of over 3,000 inspirational images transforms every surface that surrounds you in what has been described as an “unforgettable multisensory experience”. www.vangoghaliveuk.com/edinburgh

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CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS

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SUNSHINE ON LEITH King’s Theatre 7th June to 18th June 2022 With a soundtrack from world-renowned Leithers, The Proclaimers, Sunshine on Leith is both a funny and moving story about Davy and Ally, two soldiers from Edinburgh returning to their hometown after serving in war-torn countries, who are questioning what ‘home’ really means. This is a fresh new production of an audience favourite which is sure to delight yet again. Featuring hits like I’m On My Way, Letter from America, I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) and of course the title song Sunshine on Leith. www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/sunshine-on-leith

DISNEY’S THE LION KING 8 - The Icon - The Balmoral

Edinburgh Playhouse 2nd June to 2nd July Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney’s multi award-winning musical is a unique theatrical experience that you will remember forever. At its heart is the powerful story of Simba and his epic adventure to his destined role as King of the Pridelands. www.playhousetheatre.com

CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS

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CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS

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LIVE MUSIC FROM EDINBURGH CASTLE 8th to 16th July 2022

Each summer, Edinburgh Castle’s Esplanade is transformed into a unique concert venue. This Summer, an impressive lineup of artists will perform including Deacon Blue, Texas, Elbow and The Script. www.edinburghcastle.scot/whats-on/concerts

EDINBURGH ART FESTIVAL 28th July to 29th August Edinburgh Art Festival is the platform for the visual arts at the heart of Edinburgh’s August festivals, bringing together the capital’s leading galleries, museums, production facilities and artist-run spaces in a city-wide celebration of the very best in visual art. Each year, the festival features leading international and UK artists alongside the best emerging talent, major survey exhibitions of historic figures, and a special programme of newly commissioned artworks that respond to public and historic sites in the city. www.edinburghartfestival.com

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CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS

Spring/Summer - Issue No. 9

SPRING / SUMMER 2022

PLATINUM JUBILEE DISPLAY

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Palace of Holyrood House Opens Sunday 3rd July In celebration of The Queen’s historic Platinum Jubilee, the Palace of Holyroodhouse will host a display looking back at Her Majesty’s previous Jubilees featuring outfits worn by Her Majesty on occasions to celebrate the Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilees. www.rct.uk/collection/themes/exhibitions

EDINBURGH JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL 15th to 24th July For over 43 years the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival has provided a platform to showcase the very best Jazz and Blues artists that the world has to offer. Held over 10 days and with over 170 performances a year EJBF is one of the largest jazz festivals in Europe and creates moving and memorable experiences for the 70,000 people who visit annually. www.edinburghjazzfestival.com

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CONCIERGE RECOMMENDS

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How do you intend to you celebrate the season

What is your favourite thing

of Scotland’s national drink?

about Edinburgh?

What is in store for SCOTCH this summer? We have a huge Summer planned in SCOTCH.

This time of year is always a great time in

Edinburgh is such a magical city. Walking

We will be expanding our whisky offering,

any whisky lover’s calendar, with the Spirit of

through the city centre, you cannot help but

giving our guests the opportunity to taste the

Speyside having occurred at the end of May,

have your breath taken away by the beauty.

most recent and exciting releases from every

whisky is front of our minds for summer after

The mix of tourists we get to the city makes

corner of Scotland, we will be launching a new

a celebration of Scotland’s most famous region.

it a truly special place to live. The city is alive

seasonal cocktail list that focuses on refreshing

with history around every corner, it is so easy

and approachable whisky serves to compliment

Some of Scotland most famous distilleries will

to set off on a walk with no plan and find a

the warmer weather. SCOTCH is also launching

release new and limited editions and I’m looking

new favourite spot for a coffee or something

phase two of The SCOTCH Club; a unique

forward to seeing what fantastic new whiskies

to eat. Edinburgh’s bar and restaurant scene

members club in conjunction with The Macallan

are released.

also punches way above its weight with some

to offer guests a luxurious members keep in our

truly world-class bar operators and chefs

very impressive lobby and as ever, we will be

calling Edinburgh home.

hosting hundreds of guests and welcoming them

What do you enjoy most about working in the industry?

to SCOTCH to enjoy some World class With the Royal Jubilee coming up, can you

The hospitality and whisky industry,

chat us through some of your favourite

particularly in Scotland, are fantastic industries

whiskies that hold a Royal Warrant?

Scottish hospitality. To book a table in SCOTCH please contact scotch@roccofortehotels.com

to work in and I have the privilege of working in both. For me, it is companionship and

Scotch whisky has always been popular with

support. Since moving to Edinburgh seven

Royalty, indeed it was King James IV that

years ago, I have made some life long friends

first enlisted a Friar by the name of John Cor

and I have hospitality to thank for that. With

to distill a primitive form of spirit that would

regards to the occupational side, I enjoy the

eventually become whisky back in 1494. Brands

variety of characters I meet in SCOTCH.

such as Johnnie Walker and Ballantines to malts

We have a fantastically varied clientele, from

such as Royal Brackla and Royal Lochnager

someone trying their first whisky to others who

have been heralded for their quality over the

have tried thousands, we strive to provide a

years. Of these my favourite expression is the

memorable experience for all our guests.

Royal Brackla 18 Year Old a Highland Malt

or call 0131 524 7142

whisky finished in unusual palo cortado sherry casks to give in tangy citrus and waxy honeyed flavours.

In conversation with

CAMERON EWEN, WHISKY AMBASSADOR AT SCOTCH ...we will be expanding our whisky offering, giving our guests the opportunity to taste the most recent and exciting releases from every corner of Scotland 14 - The Icon - The Balmoral

CELEBRATE SCOTLAND’S NATIONAL DRINK AT SCOTCH Get into the Spirit of whisky at The Balmoral’s SCOTCH bar this summer. With a collection of over 500 single malts, vintages and blends there’s something for everyone from the novice to the connoisseur. Discover a wide selection of new tastings, expertly guided by the bar’s knowledgeable Whisky Ambassadors.

To book a table at SCOTCH please contact scotch@roccofortehotels.com or call 01315247142

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This year marks Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee culminating in a central weekend of celebrations across the UK this summer.

Did you know?

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The Balmoral shares its name with Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s Scottish holiday home. Balmoral means ‘majestic dwelling’ in Gaelic - a name fitting for two incredible feats of architecture.

In celebration of Her Majesty’s historic reign as the first British monarch to celebrate 70 years of service, we take a look at The Balmoral and Edinburgh’s royal connections during her reign.

The Queen Mother was a regular visitor to The Balmoral in the 1960s and 70s, where she liked to dine on plain roast lamb for lunch.

Each year, The Queen spends a week visiting various regions in Scotland, meeting Scots from all walks of life and hosting 8000 people at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in recognition of their good work. Known in Scotland as ‘Royal Week’, and to others as ‘Holyrood Week’, these visits celebrate Scottish culture, achievement and community. 18 - The Icon - The Balmoral

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BarPrince’s

ROYAL EDINBURGH ATTRACTIONS

ROYAL TIPPLE ROYAL YACHT As one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and the home to the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in Britain, our expert mixologists have created the perfect Royal tipple inspired by Ednburgh Castle.

Britannia is the official headquarters of the Association of Royal Yachtsmen. An unforgettable attraction for visitors, as well as a prestigious evening events venue, Britannia is regarded as one of Edinburgh’s ‘must-see’ destinations.

Included in Bar Prince’s ‘A Tour of Edinburgh’ cocktail menu, the ‘Edinburgh Castle’ cocktail includes elderflower gin, violet liquer, lavender infused vodka, rose syrup, lemon juice, white chocolate liquor, orange blossom water and vanilla syrup and is the perfect cocktail to celebrate the season of Royal Jubilation at The Balmoral.

Once home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family for over 40 years, sailing over one million miles around the world. Following The Yacht’s decommissioning in 1997, Britannia is now berthed in Edinburgh, where visitors can follow in the footsteps of Royalty to discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences.

PALACE OF HOLYROOD HOUSE Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Explore the Palace’s close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how today it is used by The Queen when carrying out official engagements in Scotland.

■ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW The Royal Highland Show is a four day event, this year it celebrates it’s 200th anniversary of the first show held in 1822 and is the pinnacle of the agricultural calendar. The Show has a long history and connection with the Royal family with members attending the show at numerous locations around the country.

This year the Show will run from the 23rd to the 26th of June 2022.

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ATTRACTIONS

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I was delighted when the Balmoral asked me to view their wonderful art collection in their exclusive suites. I jumped at the chance to have a sneak peek at what lies behind that beautiful façade. Walking into the lobby, you know that their art-buyer had great taste, as you are met by two fabulous Callum Innes (b.1962) canvases. Rarely do you get to see them on such a large and impressive scale. Opposite the check in desk there are works by more ‘big hitters’ in 20th Century British Art, such as Norman Ackroyd RA (b. 1938) and Patrick Heron CBE (1920 – 1999). So, based on what I had seen in the first minute of walking in, I knew I was in for a treat! The rest of the collection certainly lived up to my expectations. With so many wonderful paintings on view, it was hard to pick a favourite, but I was blown away with the beauty of a still life in the hotel’s Glamis Suite.

Spotlight on: THE BALMORAL’S ART COLLECTION BY MAY MATTHEWS, SCOTTISH PICTURE SPECIALIST AT BONHAMS

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The Glamis Suite is home to a stunning painting by Elizabeth Blackadder (1931 -2021). Blackadder has been a much-loved Scottish artist for over half a century. The first woman to be elected to both the Royal and Royal Scottish academies, she was made a dame in 2003 and appointed Her Majesty’s painter and limner in Scotland in 2001. However, her talents deserve further praise, examination and critical attention. Sadly, it has taken her death last year to bring her art back into the spotlight. In the artist’s own words: “I don’t really talk about my art.” Instead, she has always allowed her practice to speak for itself. This painting is a wonderful example of her understated quality and demonstrates why she should be a household name. Painter and printmaker Blackadder was born in Falkirk. She studied at Edinburgh College of Art under William Gillies, and lectured at the college from 1962 until her retirement in 1986. In 1956 she married fellow artist John Houston. She was well known for her delicate paintings of flowers, cats and still life subjects, however, she also painted landscapes and portrait.

Executed in watercolour, this was Blackadder’s preferred medium, as its delicacy translated well to her chosen subject matter, as well as the sense of calmness. This particular artwork has all the hallmarks of a Blackadder. Her deep respect for Japanese culture is evident in this piece as she places everyday objects against blank planes of space. The flattened perspective is another marker of her sensitivity to the Japanese aesthetic and works towards the abstract nature of the overall piece. Elizabeth Blackadder’s fascination with Japan began when she was a child, when an uncle brought her back souvenirs from a trip there. She loved the minimalist style and the purity of design. As an adult, she herself visited Japan regularly and fell in love with the use of space in art; admiring the process of ‘leaving out’ as well as ‘putting in’. In the 1980s, Blackadder’s work became increasingly inspired by Japan’s art and cultural traditions, which can be seen in this painting, dated 1981. Around this time, she also started to use Japanese paper, to enhance the overall effect. Her studio was full of objects such as fans, kimonos and musical instruments picked up on her travels.

As much a collector as an artist, much of her paintings appear to be inspired and stimulated by a sheer curiosity for the world around her. Therefore, it seems a perfect setting to be in the Glamis Suite at The Balmoral, where equally curious visitors can base themselves when exploring one of the world’s finest cultural capitals. If you want to see more of her work, it can be seen at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, the Tate and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. For more information on Scottish Art, you can contact May at may.matthews@ bonhams.com or pop in to meet her in person at Bonhams salerooms, 22 Queen Street, Edinburgh. To catch a glimpse of Elizabeth Blackadder’s work, contact reservations. balmoral@roccofortehotels.com or call 01315562414 to book a stay in the Glamis Suite

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Father’s Day

CHAMPAGNE AFTERNOON TEA SPA DAY

GIFT EXPERIENCES

Start your day in the comfort of The Balmoral spa and enjoy a relaxing treatment of your choice, lasting up to 60 minutes. In the afternoon, indulge in Champagne Afternoon Tea in the opulent surroundings of Palm Court.

DINNER AT NUMBER ONE

From £170 To purchase a gift voucher please visit: www.balmoral.skchase.com/vouchers

Number One offer’s a fine-dining experience like no other. This Father’s Day treat him to a seven course tasting menu, thoughtfully curated by Chef Mathew Sherry and his team to showcase the very best seasonal produce. Taste a menu of Scottish dishes combining classic flavours with modern flair. To purchase a gift certificate please visit: www.balmoral.skchase.com/vouchers

CELEBRATION EXPERIENCE FOR TWO Celebration Experience gift includes an overnight stay for two in an Executive View Room, with stunning views over Princes Street and a bottle of Champagne for the perfect toast. Complete your Balmoral experience with a full Scottish breakfast at Brasserie Prince or in the comfort of your room. To purchase a gift voucher please visit: www.balmoral.skchase.com/vouchers

SCOTCH CLUB Gift a Scotch Club membership this Father’s Day, in partnership with The Macallan. The perfect membership gift experience to whisky connoisseurs around the world. As one of the world’s leading single malt whiskies, renowned for its outstanding quality and dedication to craftsmanship, The Macallan, together with The Balmoral, have created an elite club offering bottle residence in one of the sought after, personally engraved whisky keeps that don the entrance to SCOTCH, The Balmoral’s world renowned whisky bar. Keeping the Scottish amber nectar under lock and key, The Balmoral’s expert Whisky Ambassadors will offer Scotch Club members a whisky concierge service. Whisky Ambassadors will be on hand to create a cocktail or suggest a perfect serve for your own expression of The Macallan Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky. A range of exclusive benefits mean members can entertain in style with an annual complimentary whisky tasting for two with exclusive use of the elegant surroundings of SCOTCH, graciously hosted by a Whisky Ambassador. Members also receive advance invitations to whisky masterclasses and special rates to turn their visit into a vacation in one of The Balmoral’s finest suites. To gift a membership or for more information, please contact: scotchclub@roccofortehotels.com or call 01315247142

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0131 556 2414 The Balmoral, 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel BalmoralEdinburgh @The_Balmoral @thebalmoral