Scotch: the Golden Dram

Best watched with a glass in hand, this affectionate study of the art of whisky-making centres on the Scottish island of Islay. In particular, director Andrew Peat focuses on Jim McEwan, the one-time apprentice cooper at the Bowmore distillery who spent years promoting Scotch around the world before taking on the challenge of reviving the dwindling fortunes of the Bruichladdich brand in 2000. Colleagues and competitors alike eulogise the genial Ileach, who relates his oft-told anecdotes with the same polish and passion he brings to his duties as a master blender. Following the process from barley field to bottling plant, Peat affords the talking heads far too much screen time when he might have illustrated their points with evocative images from inside the distilleries and the spectacular surrounding scenery. While this documentary isn't especially cinematic, it's still a heartfelt tribute to a meticulous craftsman and the tipple that all agree is the lifeblood of Scotland.