Discover Scotch whisky
The Scotch Whisky Experience, is the home of Scotch whisky in Edinburgh. A five star attraction at the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, we've been inspiring visitors to Edinburgh about the joys of Scotch whisky for over 35 years.
Learn How to Compare Whisky with Expert Guidance
With a range of tours available, our expert staff will help you choose your perfect whisky. Compare regional whiskies on our Gold Tour where you will enjoy an introductory tasting tray of 4 contrasting single malts.
Explore Different Whisky Flavours
There are two kinds of Scotch whisky – malt whisky and grain whisky. The malt whiskies are divided into five groups according to the geographical location of the distilleries in which they are made: Lowland malt whiskies, Highland malt whiskies, Speyside malt whiskies, Islay malt whiskies and Campbeltown malt whiskies.
Each group has its own clearly defined characteristics, ranging from the lighter Lowland malt whiskies to those distilled on Islay which are generally regarded as the heaviest malt whiskies. Malt whiskies, which differ considerably in flavour according to the distillery from which they come, have a more pronounced bouquet and flavour than the grain whiskies.
The production of grain whisky is not so influenced by geographical factors and it may be distilled anywhere in Scotland.
The Gold Tour
The Silver Tour
A Taste of Scotland Tour
Whisky and Food Pairings
If you are looking for a whisky and food experience, then our Taste of Scotland Tour is for you! Enjoy a Gold whisky tour, which includes an introductory tasting tray of 4 contrasting regional single malts, followed by our renowned Taste of Scotland three-course tasting menu comprising seven dishes in our Amber restaurant, with dessert matched with a dram.
Or visit our Whisky Bar, where you can choose from a selection of over 600 Scotch whiskies and order our Scottish Tapas, or sharing platters to accompany your whisky.
Why Discover Scotch Whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience?
With whisky tours, tastings, Amber restaurant and bar, as well as a whisky and gift shop stocking over 600+ Scotch whiskies, in the heart of Edinburgh, we are the perfect place to learn about Scotch whisky. Located, right next to Edinburgh Castle, before or after your tour, you can explore the Castle, and other nearby attractions such as Camera Obscura World of Illusions all in one day.
FAQs
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What is the difference between blended and single malt whisky?
A blend will consist of anything from 15 to 50 different single whiskies, combined in the proportions of a formula that is the secret of the blending company concerned.
Whiskies from different distilleries have a character of their own and, just as people of different temperaments are often incompatible, so some whiskies will not blend happily with certain others. The Malts and Grains in a blend must therefore, be chosen to complement and enhance their respective flavours. Blending is in no sense a dilution. The blender’s task is to combine different single whiskies, to produce a blend which brings out the best qualities of each of its constituent parts.
Find out more using the link.
A single malt whisky is a product of one particular distillery. Malt whiskies are divided into five groups according to the geographical location of the distilleries in which they are made: Lowland malt whiskies, Highland malt whiskies, Speyside malt whiskies, Islay malt whiskies and Campbeltown malt whiskies.
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How do I compare different whiskies?
On our whisky tours, we will show you the 5 steps to appreciating Scotch whisky, from the colour, body, nose, palate and finish. You will learn about the different types of Scotch whiskies and be able to sample a dram.
More information on what gives Scotch whisky its distinctive flavour and bouquet can be found below.
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What flavours can I expect from Scotch whisky?
This is one of the mysteries of the industry and a secret which many imitators of Scotch whisky have tried in vain to discover. Many theories and explanations have been put forward, but there is no universally accepted solution.
Find out more on the link below. You may also be interested in reading our Whisky is…Flavour with Lenka Whyles, head to our blog!
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How should I taste Scotch whisky?
How ever you like! Neat, as a cocktail, with a mixer, with or without ice! You choose!
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Can I learn about whisky through a guided tasting?
Absolutely! Whether you are a “whisky curious” notice or already a whisky fan, you will find the ideal tour or tasting experience. All of our tours include a tasting within one of the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky where our tour guide will go through the 5 steps to nosing and tasting a whisky.
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What food pairs well with Scotch whisky?
Visit our Amber restaurant and bar, and our staff can recommend the perfect whisky to accompany your food, whether its a full meal, Scottish tapas, or platter, or simply to pair with dark chocolate or cheese.
| The Gold Tour | The Silver Tour | A Taste of Scotland Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|
| After the whisky tour, you'll enjoy an introductory tasting tray of 4 contrasting regional single malts. | A guided tour plus a nosing and tasting of a single malt or blended Scotch whisky in one of the world's largest collections of Scotch whisky. | Enjoy a Platinum whisky tour, followed by our renowned Taste of Scotland three-course tasting menu in our Amber Restaurant. | |
| Cost | £39.75 | £25 | £95 |
| Duration | 75 minutes | 50 minutes | 3 hours |
| Frequency | All day, every day | All day, every day | 4x / day |
| Number of whiskies | 5x | 1x | 6x |
| Food option | - | - | 3-course meal |
| Language |
21 Languages
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21 Languages
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21 Languages
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| Family friendly | - | - | |
| 18+ only (ID required) | - | ||
| Reschedule (up to 48hrs before) | |||
| Find out more | Find out more | Find out more |
