Scottish Heather Honey

Description

About Scottish Heather Honey

The bees forage common heather, also known as ling, a native moorland plant that flowers from late July to September. It is a short but important source of nectar, and the Scottish weather and winds across the exposed moorland shape how much each season gives. That short flowering season is what makes every harvest small and seasonal, and gives heather honey its reputation as a special honey.

Left undisturbed, heather honey sets into a jelly-like consistency, and stirring softens it so it spreads more easily. That behaviour is one of the defining features of heather honey.

Quick facts

• Origin: Pentland Hills, West Linton, Scotland.
• Floral source: Common heather, also called ling (Calluna vulgaris).
• Harvest: Late summer. The heather flowers from late July to September.
• Colour: Dark amber.
• Texture: Thick and dense. Sets when still, loosens when stirred.
• Flavour: Rich and aromatic. Flavour family: Rich & Robust, Distinctive.
• : Raw Scottish honey, never heated.
• Sizes: 120g, 400g, 1kg.

Pairings

Warm toast, or sourdough with salted butter. Stirred into black tea. Spooned over natural yoghurt. On a cheese board with mature cheddar or a blue cheese.

Storage

Store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Stirring softens it if it sets. Not suitable for infants under 12 months.

Why you’ll love it

• Stronger than blossom honey. Heather honey is the one to choose for a rich, aromatic flavour from wild Scottish moorland.
• A small seasonal harvest. How much there is each year depends on the weather and the terrain.
• A texture of its own. It sets when still and loosens when stirred.