This article appears as part of the Food Matters newsletter.


We’ve hit the ground running this year at the Herald Food & Drink. 

From the Hospitality Health series exploring the importance of well-being support in the workplace to handy guides for cheap eats that will suit even the tightest of post-Christmas budgets, no two days in January have been the same. 

But there’s one star-powered tale in particular that’s sent the mind of this humble reporter straight to the world of red carpets and glitzy award ceremonies. 

This week, we shared the news that a small batch Scottish spirit has been selected for the ultimate ‘swag bags’ soon to be distributed to each of the 2024 Oscars nominees.  

It’s an incredible achievement for Angus-based distillers Gin Bothy, whose London Dry Gin crafted with locally sourced pine, heather and honey is set to give Academy Award hopefuls ‘a real taste of Scotland in the bottle’

I’m sure it will, but now can’t help wondering which of the other 60 products or experiences have seen the bag's estimated worth reach an eye-watering $125,000. 

Read more:

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Past big-ticket items racking up costs have included liposuction procedures, four-night stays at 17th-century castles and, controversially, plots of land from the Highlands. 

In this tough economy, I reckon I could help to save them a couple of bucks with some far simpler pleasures. 

Let’s go all out and lean into some Scottish foodie stereotypes while we’re at it, shall we?

Green juices and carb-free diets are out. 

Instead, let’s help the acting world’s elite start the day right by sending over a care package of Stornoway black pudding or Lorne sausage complete with a choice of soft or crispy morning rolls. 

For those who preach the importance of fighting climate change while booking the next trip on their private jet, we’ll chuck in a vegan alternative from Glasgow’s Rose and Grants, a signature creation that rivals its meaty counterpart without any worries about the farming industry’s carbon footprint.  

Irn-Bru is an obvious choice, so to keep things interesting how about a trio of the newly launched Iron Brew sour beers from the talented folks at Vault City Brewing. 

Perfect for raising an orange-hued toast to the night’s winners. 

The Herald:

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And finally, a portion of the limited-edition chocolate Haggis released this month by butcher Simon Howie is sure to leave recipients more confused than ever as to exactly what our beloved national dish is made of. 

We’ll perhaps draw the line at any deep-fried Mars bars, as I’m not convinced the Blue Lagoons’ finest would be improved by a journey across the Atlantic. 

The Herald:
For now, you can find more information on the Gin Bothy and their journey to Oscars glory by visiting their website here

But if the LA-based company behind these luxury goodie bags is looking for some help in curating next year's selections, they know where to find me.