Orkney Brewery

The most northerly brewery in Scotland (bar Shetland's Lerwick Brewery), producing traditional Scottish ales from a converted former schoolhouse in Orkney's West Mainland. Dark Island is the flagship — a rich, malty ale with chocolate and blackcurrant notes that's become one of Scotland's most recognisable craft beers outside the central belt. Northern Light (a lighter session ale) and Skull Splitter (a strong ale at 8.5%) round out the core range. The brewery benefits from Orkney's clean water and barley-growing tradition. The visitor centre and tasting bar are worth including in an Orkney trip alongside the distilleries and archaeology.