The StrongWater Co

Brothers Guy and Mungo Finlayson founded The Strong Water Co in 2014 as an independent wine merchant and spirits retailer, and now run shops on Banchory's High Street and Ballater's Bridge Street. Shelves cover Scotch whisky, fine wines, craft beers, and cigars, chosen for what the brothers describe as character over volume. The Ballater branch houses a dedicated whisky tasting room used for guided sessions, and the business runs subscription clubs including Guy's Wine Club and a Single Cask Whisky Club. Staff give one-to-one advice on gifts and cellar-building for tourists and regulars alike.