Less than two weeks to go until whisky heaven

A renowned malt festival is promising to bring ‘whisky heaven’ to Edinburgh later this month.

More than 30 producers, makers, and bottlers from across the world, will set up stall for The Whisky Lounge’s Edinburgh Whisky Festival at the Assembly Rooms on Saturday, 16 June, for a one-day event.

Distillers from as far afield as Taiwan, India and Japan will be offering visitors the chance to taste whisky across a range of flavour profiles.

Guests will also have the opportunity to take part in a series of special masterclasses throughout the day.

As part of its mission to entice new fans to the world of malt, this year The Whisky Lounge is inviting novices to take part in a ‘Whisky Baptism’ – a special beginners tasting and festival tour which will lead them to the first ‘Whisky Heaven’.

Upon reaching the pearly gates, guests will be able to meet and take part in exclusive Q&A sessions with ‘gods’ and ‘goddesses’ of the industry, including Scotch expert, Charles Maclean; Distell Master Blender, Kirstie McCallum; and director of prestigious whisky society Keepers of the Quaich, Annabel Meikle.

Matt from The Whisky Lounge sets up for the Edinburgh Whisky Festival

Eddie Ludlow, founder of The Whisky Lounge, said: ‘We are celebrating 10 years of spreading the gospel of whisky and our sixth event in Edinburgh.

‘Our mission is to shake-off any preconceptions people may have about our national drink and present whisky in a fun, laid-back way.

‘This year’s event will be whisky heaven, with hundreds of different malts to try and the opportunity to meet some of the whisky-world’s most renowned experts.’

Taking place at the Assembly Rooms on George Street, Edinburgh, on Saturday 16 June, tickets to the Edinburgh Whisky Festival start at £20. Attendees are invited to join one of two sessions throughout the day, either noon-4pm or 5-9pm.

For more information on the Edinburgh Whisky Festival, and to purchase tickets, visit www.thewhiskylounge.com.