An Evening with Norrel Robertson MW – The Flying Scotsman

From Aberdeen to the vineyards of Spain – join us for a very special evening of Spanish wine, cheese and conversation at The Strong Water Co. - Saturday 21st of November.

We are delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed Scottish winemaker and Master of Wine Norrel Robertson MW, affectionately known as El Escocés Volante – The Flying Scotsman, for two exclusive wine tasting evenings at our Banchory and Ballater shops this November.

Join us for an intimate, personally hosted tasting exploring Norrel's exceptional Spanish wines, accompanied by a delicious collection of nibbles, including a selection of cheeses to enjoy alongside the wines.

Tickets: £50 per person | Limited spaces available

From Aberdeen to the Vineyards of Spain

Norrel's remarkable winemaking journey has a particularly special connection to the North East of Scotland.

Having studied Politics and International Relations at the University of Aberdeen, Norrel went on to build an extraordinary international career in wine, working across some of the world's most celebrated wine-producing regions before making Spain his home.

After becoming a Master of Wine in 2000, one of the wine industry's most prestigious qualifications, Norrel established his own winemaking project, El Escocés Volante, in the rugged hills of Calatayud in Aragón, Spain.

His nickname, meaning "The Flying Scotsman", reflects both his Scottish roots and his international approach to winemaking.

Today, Norrel is particularly celebrated for his work with old-vine Garnacha, producing distinctive wines that showcase the extraordinary character of Spain's historic vineyards.

For us at The Strong Water Co., welcoming a winemaker with such a strong connection to Aberdeen makes these evenings particularly special.

Discover the Wines of El Escocés Volante

We're already proud to stock wines from Norrel's portfolio at The Strong Water Co., including El Puño Blanco, a characterful Spanish white made from Viognier in Calatayud.

Norrel's winemaking philosophy centres around celebrating individual vineyards, native grape varieties and the distinctive landscapes of Spain.

His wines offer an exciting alternative to more familiar Spanish styles, from aromatic, expressive whites to beautifully structured reds showcasing the depth and complexity of old-vine Garnacha.

During the evening, Norrel will personally guide guests through a specially selected collection of his wines, sharing the stories behind each bottle, the vineyards they come from, and the techniques used to create them.

Whether you're already familiar with his wines or discovering them for the first time, this is a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from the winemaker himself.

Wine, Cheese & Good Company

Of course, no great wine tasting would be complete without something delicious to eat!

Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy a collection of nibbles, including a selection of cheeses, served alongside the wines.

Expect a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, fantastic Spanish wines, fascinating stories from Norrel's career and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

These evenings are designed for everyone, whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply enjoy discovering something new.

What Your £50 Ticket Includes

• An exclusive, personally hosted wine tasting with Norrel Robertson, Master of Wine.
• A guided selection of wines from his Spanish winemaking portfolio.
• Fascinating stories about his journey from Aberdeen to Spain.
• Insights into old-vine Garnacha, Spanish vineyards, and winemaking.
• A delicious collection of nibbles, including cheeses to accompany the tasting.
• An intimate and relaxed evening at The Strong Water Co.

When?

Ballater – Saturday 21st November 2026

Time: 7:00pm
Venue: The Strong Water Co., Ballater, 2 Bridge Street
Tickets: £50 per person
Availability: Limited tickets

Book Your Place – Limited Tickets Available

With limited spaces available at both our Banchory and Ballater shops, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

This is a rare opportunity to spend an evening with one of Scotland's most accomplished wine personalities, discovering exceptional Spanish wines with the man who makes them.

Tickets are £50 per person and include the guided wine tasting, cheese and accompanying nibbles.

Secure your place today and join us for an unforgettable evening with The Flying Scotsman at The Strong Water Co.

Guests must be aged 18 or over. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when booking.