The quaich is an iconic Scottish item steeped in tradition, representative of a shared experience in uniting clans, which demonstrates trust and a sense of belonging. Discover more about the heritage of the Scottish quaich and why sipping a dram from this special cup is part of many celebrations in Scotland today.

What is a Quaich

A quaich (pronounced kway-ch) is a shallow two handled ‘loving cup’ which comes from the Gaelic word ‘cuach’ meaning ‘shallow cup’. However, it is more than a two handled cup, the quaich is a symbol for Scottish hospitality and people coming together. It has evolved from an everyday drinking vessel into the ‘cup of friendship’ and today is featured in many celebratory events in Scotland such as a wedding or a Burns Supper, where companions would each sip a dram of whisky from the vessel to commemorate the occasion.

Given the quaich's symbolic meaning and more expensive construction it has become more of a prized, ceremonial item. A few examples of this are that, traditionally, anglers toss a dram of whisky into the river from the quaich to celebrate the new salmon season, and in the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, each medal winner was given a wooden quaich as a gift.

 

Heritage and Wedding Tradition

It is uncertain when quaichs were initially used but can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Initially, it is believed scallop shells were used given their shallow base, a similar structure to the quiach. However, we know that they were first utilised as drinking cup in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland in the 17th century.

The reason this type of vessel is used is that is must be held by two hands. Alongside the practicality and comfort of the quaich having two handles, this design allows it to be shared and easily passed between one person and another, symbolising trust. Historically, when welcoming a stranger from an opposing clan into your home, they would be offered a drink from the quaich. The host would drink first (to show the liquor was not poisoned) and then pass the vessel over. Two hands holding the quaich meant no hands were holding a weapon. Likewise, centuries ago, marriages would bring two clans together who were potentially rivals and drinking with two hands on the quaich demonstrated trust in the opposing clan and a mark of honour and respect.

Traditionally during a wedding, the bride drinks from the quaich first and then the groom, with the clan leaders each taking a drink afterwards. This tradition is thought to have first taken place in 1589 when King James VI and Princess Anne of Demark were married and is still a part of Scottish weddings today. After the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom each share their first drink (usually a dram of whisky) as a married couple from the quaich. The couple each take a drink and then will usually pass the quaich around to any guests who would like to drink from the cup. Drinking from the same vessel signifies the couple’s intimacy, sealing their bond and the union between two family clans.

Have look at our blog post 15 Scottish Wedding Traditions to Include in your Wedding Day for more Scottish wedding tradition ideas that you can include in your special day.

Construction of the Quaich

Early quiachs were initially constructed from either one piece of wood what was hollowed out using a lathe or made from multiple narrow staves of wood, creating a shape similar in design to a barrel. Sometimes different colours of wood were used and alternated to enhance the appearance of the quaich. The drinking implement could be bound in silver, brass or steel and often fitted with a silver mount. The two handles or ‘lugs’ (the Scottish word for ears) were made from wood or silver. Although, some examples of surviving early quaich designs were made completely from silver and engraved with Gaelic mottos, they were not commonly made from silver until the 19th century when the quaich became a more treasured item.

Only a few of the earlier wooden quiachs remain, but many of the later silver vessels survived, and these being more extravagant in design are highly sought after by collectors. In the present day, they continue to be made in a variety of materials including silver, brass, pewter, copper, and wood and can feature bespoke embellishments in the design such as clan crests or mottos. At Lochcarron of Scotland, we stock 3” quaichs made of polished pewter with decorative handles either in a Celtic knot or thistle design, hand-made in the finest plated pewter.

Celtic Knot Design (left), Thistle Design (right) made from polished pewter.

Whisky | The Traditional Drink for the Quaich

Whisky is Scotland’s beloved national drink and a symbol of Scottish history and heritage. There is a strong connection between a having a dram of whisky and companionship and this is noted by prominent Scottish writers and poets. For example, Burn’s love for whisky is referenced in his 1785 poem ‘Scotch Drink’ which honours the role of whisky in the life of the everyday man and a ‘dram’ is described in the late Iain Bank’s book 'Raw Spirit' as ‘a measure of whisky that is pleasing to both guest and host’, representing the comfort and the bond created by sharing a dram of whisky. Similarly, a dram of whisky is typically drunk from a quaich to bless a marriage. The contents are filled with possibilities through their sweet and bitter taste representing the couple’s journey that is still to come through their shared life together. Whisky is the traditional choice for the quaich, but today any drink can be used.

Burns Check Bowhill 100% Lambswool Scarf

The quaich is rich in tradition and symbolism, and a cherished keepsake that can be handed down through the generations. So why not add some Scottish heritage to the occasion with this beautiful and practical piece that will create special memories with your friends and family for years to come.