Portrait of Robert Burns by Alexander Nasmyth (1787) – Scottish Natinal Portrait Gallery (Image: public domain)
Robert Burns was born on January 25, 1759 and passed way—far too soon—on July 21, 1796. Burns, often referred to as the National Poet of Scotland, was a prolific poet and lyricist who created more than 700 works throughout his life. He is perhaps best-known as the author of “Auld Lang Syne,” “My Luve is like a Red Red Rose,”and “Tam o’ Shanter.”
On the fifth anniversary of his death, a group of Burns’ friends gathered in his childhood home town of Alloway for a memorial supper. It must have been quite a dinner, as a variation of Burns Nicht (Burns Night) has been celebrated every year since. These days, Burns Night is often recognized on January 25—the poet’s birthday.
Burns Night is typically celebrated with an elaborate, ceremonial Burns Supper consisting of bagpipes, blessings, multiple courses of Scottish dishes, the formal presentation of the haggis (the main course), and—of course—recitations and other performances of the famous poets works.
The Burns Monument in his hometown of Alloway, Scotland
Throughout the event, there are multiple toasts and speeches accompanied by Scotland’s famous water of life—Scotch whisky. Choose your favorite: Johnnie Walker, Dewar’s, and Ballantine’s are among the top-selling brands. In my house, we typically reach for Macallen 12 year (his favorite) or Glengoyne 21 year (her top choice).
Or, perhaps you’d prefer to toast with a Bobby Burns Cocktail made with Scotch, red vermouth, and Bénédictine? Don’t forget the lemon peel garnish.
If you’d like to have a Robert Burns celebration of your own, here are a few links to his famous works (via the BBC website). After a few nights of practice, you should be ready for the party—just don’t forget the Scotch whisky.
What will you be serving for Burns Night this year?
References/for more information:
- http://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/robertburns/
- http://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/robertburns/burns_night_running_order.shtml
- https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/burns-night-explained-when-date-traditional-supper-what-to-wear-how-to-celebrate-a8732271.html
Post authored by Jane A. Nickles…your blog administrator: jnickles@societyofwineeducators.org