Our Òr Quaich: A Celebration of Scottish Tradition
This humble cup has been a symbol of sharing, celebration and friendship in Scotland for centuries, and now, it’s found a new home at Òr in the form of the beautifully crafted Skye Sand Whisky Quaich.
The Quaich is often referred to as the ‘cup of friendship’ or ‘loving cup’ and the name is derived from the Gaelic word ‘cuach’ which means ‘cup’. For those less familiar with Gaelic pronunciation, try saying ‘quake’ with the ‘k’ replaced with the softer ‘ch’ as in ‘Loch’.
The origins of the quaich is steeped in mystery and can be traced back as far as the Druids some 2000 years ago. Often used to welcome guests at Clan gatherings in the west Highlands it has remained a steadfast token of trust and friendship. Originally carved from wood with intricate Celtic knots and clan motifs, the quaich got its moment to shine in the 17th century—quite literally—when it moved to precious metals. With intricate designs winding their way around the handles and inside the cup, transforming it into a work of art in its own right.
Steering away from the mass produced Celtic inspired pieces that dominate the perception of “Scottishness” we have collaborated with Julija Pustovrh, a talented ceramicist based at Abbeymount Studios in Edinburgh, to create our Skye Sand Whisky Quaich. Our beautifully crafted ceramic stoneware Quaich is enriched with sand from the Isle of Skye, making each piece unique and grounded in a sense of place. Handmade in Scotland, we hope it becomes an heirloom piece that’s passed down to family and friends for generations to come.
Like many of Julija’s creations, she manages to honour centuries of tradition while feeling utterly contemporary. Julija breathes life into pieces by using natural textures, and subtle beauty with an earthy elegance that invites you to feel the weight of it in your hands and admire the understated, charmingly imperfect details.
Though our Quaich is rooted in simplicity, the journey to its final design was anything but. After a year of refinement and experimentation, from clays to handles, sketches to samples, our shared vision finally came to life! This Quaich is a true testament to Julija’s patience and dedication—great things really do take time!
If there’s an object made for gifting, it’s this. Traditionally filled with whisky (naturally) and shared between friends to celebrate bonds of loyalty, unity and trust. At weddings, the Quaich really comes into its own as a powerful gesture of union. The bride and groom drink from it, a shared sip to symbolise the coming together of two families, two lives. And in true Òr style, founder Jen and her husband Andy didn’t just observe this tradition – they embraced it fully at their own wedding, sealing their bond with a wee dram or two!
Of course, there’s something undeniably Scottish about all of this. From the name to the quiet ritual of sharing, our Òr Quaich connects us to traditions that have been passed down through generations. And yet, there’s nothing old-fashioned about it. The Skye Sand design is modern and timeless - something that could sit just as happily in a city apartment as it could in a Highland bothy. A little bit of Scotland’s soul, wrapped up in a beautifully made vessel.
And really, isn’t that what part of “Scottishness” is all about? A perfect blend of heritage, craft and beauty—something meant to be shared.
Discover our Skye Sand Whisky Quaich here.
