This autumn lovers of game are in for the ultimate gastro treat at the Royal Deeside Larder Venison Festival. This new six-day celebration of venison takes place from 26th to 31st October 2010 across Royal Deeside including Balmoral Estate, Banchory, Ballater and Aboyne. A Venison Pie complete with antlers in the style of a Desperate Dan ‘cow pie’ was created for the launch.
Local producers, hotels, restaurants and country estates in Royal Deeside & The Cairngorms have created a mouth-watering programme of venison themed activities. A feast of venison inspired menus will be offered - from smoked venison sandwiches, sausages, broths and burgers to venison haggis and even venison vindaloo!
Amateur cooks will pick up some top tips on how to cook venison to perfection at a series of cookery demonstrations followed by lunch or dinner.
But the Venison Festival isn’t just about eating – there are a number of wildlife safaris being organised by the Glen Tanar, Finzean and Balmoral estates which promise visitors insight into land management. These wildlife safaris in 4 x 4s include ranger talks and trips onto the estates with hearty breakfasts and lunches to keep visitors going while on the move.
Garry Marsden, Chairman of the Royal Deeside & the Cairngorms DMO says, “We know that visitors to Royal Deeside & the Cairngorms enjoy authentic, local food when they holiday – and there can be no finer example of this than the game that roams our estates. This event offers first-timers and venison connoisseurs alike the opportunity to taste the very finest Scottish venison in some unusual settings. They’ll also get a fascinating insight into the important role that venison plays in Royal Deeside’s Larder.
“Previously, venison has been seen as a meat only for the elite, but we want to show that it can be enjoyed by everyone.”
Events include:
- Venison Cookery demonstrations and lunches at Banchory Lodge Hotel; TMilton Restaurant; Glenkindie Arms; Loch Kinord Hotel
- Wildlife Safaris at Balmoral, Glen Tanat and Finzean Estates
- Family Ceilidh and BBQ with spit roast at Woodend Barn, Banchory
The Venison Festival is supported by the Scottish Government and the European Community Rural Aberdeenshire LEADER programme (2007-2013) with Aberdeenshire Council and Scottish Enterprise.