Rosslyn Chapel has launched a new Scottish rum celebrating its centuries-old links with the Orkney islands.<\/p>\n
Rosabelle is a three-year-aged rum crafted by J Gow Rum on the uninhabited island of Lamb Holm in Orkney.<\/p>\n
The launch marks a connection between Rosslyn Chapel and the islands stretching back nearly 600 years.<\/p>\n
The trust's shop already stocks gin from Orkney Distilling, distilled in Kirkwall, as well as savoury biscuits from Argo's Bakery and jewellery by Sheila Fleet inspired by the chapel.<\/p>\n
The connection between Rosslyn Chapel and Orkney dates back to Sir William St Clair, the chapel's founder, who held the title of the third and last St Clair Prince of Orkney.<\/p>\n
The title originated through the marriage of his great-grandfather, William St Clair, to Isabella, daughter and heir of Malise V of Strathearn, who was also Earl of Orkney and Caithness.<\/p>\n
Sir William was formally recognised as Prince of Orkney in August 1434.<\/p>\n
He held the title until February 1472, when Orkney was annexed to the Scottish Crown by King James III.<\/p>\n
The new rum takes its name from Rosabelle, the ill-fated heroine of Sir Walter Scott's The Lay of the Last Minstrel.<\/p>\n
According to legend, Rosabelle was a St Clair noblewoman who drowned in the Firth of Forth while travelling to a ball at Rosslyn Castle.<\/p>\n
Legend says a mysterious crimson glow appeared over Rosslyn Chapel and Castle when Rosabelle was lost at sea.<\/p>\n
Rosslyn Chapel was founded by Sir William St Clair in 1446 and is renowned for its intricate medieval stonework.<\/p>\n
The chapel also featured prominently in Dan Brown's novel The Da Vinci Code and its film adaptation.<\/p>\n
Rosslyn Chapel remains open to visitors throughout the year.<\/p>\n
Glasgow whisky fans invited to compete for Europe's best whisky taster title<\/p>\n