90-Minute Introduction to Whisky in the Old Town of Edinburgh

Discover the secrets of Scotland’s national drink in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. This 90-minute whisky tasting tour offers a captivating introduction to the world of Scotch, led by a knowledgeable local expert. Explore the production methods, flavor profiles, and regional styles of four distinct whiskies, representing the major whisky-producing regions. Explore an atmospheric, newly uncovered underground space as you learn about the rich history and tradition of this iconic spirit. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for the complexities of Scotch whisky, leaving you eager to further explore this fascinating topic.

Key Points

• This 90-minute tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Scotland’s national drink, exploring its history and heritage in a newly uncovered underground space in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

• Participants will have the opportunity to taste four distinct whiskies representing the major whisky-producing regions of Scotland, showcasing the diversity of the national spirit.

• The tour is led by an experienced local guide with extensive knowledge of Scottish whisky and a deep understanding of Edinburgh’s history, providing insightful commentary throughout the experience.

• The intimate, atmospheric setting of the underground space allows participants to fully enjoy the rich tradition and production methods of Scotch whisky.

• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for pregnant travelers, but service animals are allowed, and it is located near public transportation.

Overview of the Tour

This 90-minute whisky introduction tour takes visitors on a journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town, exploring Scotland’s national drink in an unseen part of the city.

Featuring a badge of excellence, the tour offers a rundown of Scotland’s whisky heritage. Participants will venture into a newly uncovered underground space and taste four different whiskies, each representative of the major whisky-producing regions of Scotland.

Led by an experienced local guide, the tour provides an engaging and educational experience for both whisky aficionados and newcomers alike.

With glowing reviews and a maximum group size of 8, this tour offers an intimate and immersive introduction to the world of Scottish whisky.

Exploring the Underground Space

Venturing into the newly uncovered underground space, visitors on the tour get to explore a hidden part of Edinburgh’s Old Town that few get to see.

This 19th-century venue, located deep beneath the city’s streets, offers a unique and atmospheric backdrop for learning about Scotland’s national drink.

Descending into the cavernous space, guests are transported back in time, surrounded by the weathered stone walls and flickering candlelight. The intimate setting creates an engaging and immersive experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the rich history and tradition of Scotch whisky.

From this underground vantage point, the tour delves into the production methods, flavor profiles, and regional styles that make each dram so distinctive.

Whisky Tasting Regions

On this tour, visitors have the opportunity to taste four distinct whiskies, each representing one of the major whisky-producing regions of Scotland.

From the smoky, peaty whiskies of Islay to the delicate, fruity drams of the Highlands, the tasting showcases the incredible diversity of Scotland’s national spirit.

The Lowland whisky offers a light, grassy flavor, while the Speyside selection is known for its complex, nutty notes.

Each region has its own unique character, reflected in the whiskies sampled. This tasting provides an engaging introduction to the rich tapestry of Scottish whisky, allowing participants to discover their personal preferences and gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved beverage.

Experienced Local Guide

Throughout the 90-minute experience, an experienced local guide leads visitors on a journey through the hidden corners of Edinburgh’s Old Town, sharing their deep knowledge of Scotland’s national drink. The guide’s expertise brings the history and production of whisky to life, offering insider insights that go beyond what can be found in a book. With a passion for their city and its renowned spirit, the guide skillfully navigates the group, ensuring everyone has an engaging and immersive tasting experience.

Guide Qualifications	Experience
Extensive knowledge of Scottish whisky	5+ years guiding tours
In-depth understanding of Edinburgh’s history	Certified Whisky Ambassador
Friendly, enthusiastic demeanor	Completed whisky training courses
Ability to tailor tour to group interests	Connections with local distilleries

Meeting Point and Location

The tour meets at CoDE Pod – THE CoURT, located behind St Giles Cathedral in the corner of Parliament Square in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

This easily accessible meeting spot is just a short walk from the city center.

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by your experienced local guide who’ll lead you on an unforgettable journey underground.

The meeting point features:

• A cozy, intimate setting perfect for the whisky tasting
• Convenient access to public transportation
• Just steps away from iconic Edinburgh landmarks
• A newly uncovered underground space to explore

With the meeting point set, you’ll be ready to dive into the world of Scottish whisky and uncover the secrets of this historic city.

Tour Duration and Availability

This 90-minute whisky tasting tour runs multiple times throughout the day, allowing visitors ample opportunity to discover Edinburgh’s whisky heritage.

Participants can choose from a variety of tour start times to best fit their schedule. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, the tour offers flexible options to suit your needs.

From noon to 8 PM, you can join one of the many whisky tastings held in the newly uncovered underground space beneath the city’s streets.

With knowledgeable local guides leading the way, you’ll get to sample four different drams and explore the rich history of Scotland’s national drink.

It’s an experience not to be missed during your time in Edinburgh.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The 90-minute whisky tasting tour includes four drams of whisky, each representing one of the major whisky production regions of Scotland. Participants will get to sample a variety of whiskies under the guidance of an experienced local guide, who’ll share insights into the history and production of Scotland’s national drink.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

The tour also:

• Allows service animals
• Is located near public transportation
• Has a maximum of 8 travelers
• Takes place in an unseen, newly uncovered underground space in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Additional Considerations

Visitors should keep in mind that this whisky tasting tour isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s not wheelchair accessible, and pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to participate.

Service animals are allowed, so visitors with assistance animals can still enjoy the experience.

The tour takes place in an underground space, so those who are claustrophobic or have difficulty navigating stairs may want to consider a different activity.

On the plus side, the venue is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to get to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Whisky to the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own whisky on the tour. The tour includes tastings of 4 different whiskies from various regions, so bringing your own would interfere with the experience. You’ll get to sample a variety of Scotland’s finest whiskies during the tour.

Will the Tour Guide Teach Me How to Properly Taste Whisky?

The tour guide will teach participants how to properly taste whisky during the experience. They’ll share tips on nosing, sipping, and savoring the different whiskies to fully appreciate their unique flavors and aromas.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate in the Tour?

There’s no minimum age requirement, but you must be 18 or older to taste the whisky samples. The tour’s not suitable for kids – it’s focused on educating adults about Scotland’s national drink through guided tastings and exploration.

Can I Purchase Additional Whiskies During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional whiskies during the tour. The tour provides 4 drams, but if you’d like to sample more, you can buy extra drams at the venue. Just let your guide know if you’d like to purchase more.

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?

Photos and videos are generally allowed during the tour. The tour guide may simply ask participants to be mindful and not disrupt the experience for others. Checking with the guide upon arrival is recommended to confirm the photography policy.

Recap

Enjoy Scotland’s whisky heritage with this 90-minute tasting tour.

Discover the rich flavors and regional styles of four distinct Scotch whiskies in an atmospheric, underground space in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.

Led by a knowledgeable local expert, this comprehensive experience offers an insightful introduction to the production methods and traditions that make Scotch whisky so iconic.