Agroecology around Arran - Arable Episode

In this episode, we explore arable farming on Arran, tracing the journey of locally grown grain from field to fork and glass.We begin at Bellevue Farm, where farmer Donald Currie grows malting barley on Arran’s fertile soils. From there, we follow the grain north to Lochranza Distillery, where Brand Ambassador Fred Baumgärtner explains how locally grown barley is transformed into the island’s world-renowned whisky. We finish our journey at Blackwater Bakehouse, where baker George Grassie shares his passion for artisan breadmaking, heritage grains, sustainability, health and nutrient-dense food.The phrase “follow the grain” is often used to describe the process of working with the natural direction of a material, or within the constraints of your environment, rather than forcing a direction that leads to resistance and damage.We learn how this ethos is reflected in the agroecological approach embraced across Arran. From the field to the distillery and bakery, we hear how farmers, bakers and distillers work with the opportunities and constraints of the island’s climate, soils and landscapes, allowing the local environment to shape their practices rather than trying to overcome it.Episode guestsDonald CurrieDonald Currie is an arable and beef farmer who produces barley for malting at Bellevue Farm and other sites around the island.Fred BaumgärtnerFred Baumgärtner is the Brand Home Ambassador for the Isle of Arran Distillers, the company responsible for producing award-winning whisky at both Lagg Distillery and Lochranza Distillery.Born and bred on Arran, Fred now leads whisky tasting tours and experiences at the distillery for hundreds of visitors each year, and travels the world showcasing the island’s products.George GrassieGeorge Grassie is an artisan baker who has been running Blackwater Bakehouse for the past five years. Born and raised on Arran, George spent several years living on the mainland and abroad before returning to the island with his young family. Today, the Bakehouse produces fresh artisan bread using high-quality Scottish-grown organic flour and heritage grains, and has recently expanded into a new site in Brodick. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.