Edinburgh’s Johnnie Walker Whisky Explorers Guided Tasting is a remarkable opportunity for whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky through a curated selection of five exceptional drams, each aged for at least 12 years and hailing from renowned regions. With knowledgeable guides, non-alcoholic options, and exclusive discounts, this one-hour session promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you craving to uncover more of Edinburgh’s vibrant whisky culture.
Key Points
- A guided whisky tasting experience in Edinburgh’s Explorers’ Bothy bar, featuring a selection of five whiskies matured for a minimum of 12 years.
- The tasting showcases distinct flavor profiles from iconic whisky regions, including Islay, Highlands, and Speyside.
- Participants receive a 10% discount on products at the Johnnie Walker Princes Street store and an additional 10% discount on drinks at the rooftop bar.
- The activity is suitable for adults aged 18 and above, with valid ID required for alcoholic drink consumption, and non-alcoholic options available.
- Past participants have praised the knowledgeable guides and the varied dram selection, while mentioning strict dress code and limited digital ID acceptance as areas for improvement.
Activity Overview
The guided whisky tasting takes place in Edinburgh’s Explorers’ Bothy bar and lasts for approximately 1 hour.
The guided whisky tasting takes place in Edinburgh’s Explorers’ Bothy bar and lasts for approximately 1 hour.
Priced from $51.89 per person, the experience includes sampling five extraordinary whiskies, each matured for a minimum of 12 years.
A live tour guide provides the tasting in English, and the venue is wheelchair accessible.
Participants can enjoy a full refund if they cancel up to 2 days in advance.
The tasting showcases drams from iconic Scottish regions, including a rare Johnnie Walker Princes Street lowland grain whisky and the renowned Johnnie Walker Black Label.
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Whisky Selection and Experience
Participants can savor a collection of drams from iconic whisky regions during the guided tasting. They’ll sample whiskies from Islay, the Highlands, and Speyside, each matured for a minimum of 12 years. A rare Johnnie Walker Princes Street lowland grain whisky will also be featured, along with the classic Johnnie Walker Black Label, representing Scotland in a single dram.
| Region | Whisky | Maturation |
|——–|——–|————|
| Islay | Peated | 12+ years |
| Highlands | Smooth | 12+ years |
| Speyside | Rich & Fruity | 12+ years |
| Lowlands | Rare Princes Street | 12+ years |
Discounts and Offers
Visitors enjoy a 10% discount on products at the Johnnie Walker Princes Street store, valid on the day of the tour or up to 7 days after.
Plus, they receive a 10% discount on drinks at the rooftop bar, though terms and conditions apply.
These discounts are available on products priced up to £499.99 each, providing an opportunity to take home a special memento from the Johnnie Walker experience.
These offers enhance the overall value of the guided whisky tasting, making it an even more appealing experience for both whisky enthusiasts and those new to the world of Scotch.
Participant Requirements and Restrictions
Suitable for adults 18 years and older, the whisky tasting experience requires a valid ID for alcoholic drink consumption, as digital copies aren’t accepted.
Non-alcoholic options are available for those who prefer. Smart casual attire is expected; no costumes or sportswear are permitted.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 years. Participants must arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour start time.
Table reservations for the rooftop bar are recommended. The experience has received positive feedback, with reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and the varied whisky selection.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Arrival Time
The meeting point for the Edinburgh Whisky Tasting experience is Johnnie Walker Princes Street.
Participants should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. This allows enough time to check-in, find the Explorers’ Bothy bar, and get settled before the tasting begins.
Arrive 15 minutes early to check-in, find the bar, and get settled before the whisky tasting begins.
Arriving on time ensures guests don’t miss any part of the guided experience. Those planning to visit the rooftop bar afterward are advised to make table reservations in advance.
With clear instructions and an easy-to-find meeting location, the tasting experience gets off to a smooth start.
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Rooftop Bar Reservations
Why are table reservations for the rooftop bar recommended?
The rooftop bar at Johnnie Walker Princes Street offers stunning views of Edinburgh, making it a popular spot. With limited seating, reserving a table in advance ensures you’ll have a place to enjoy your drinks after the guided whisky tasting.
The rooftop bar also offers a 10% discount on drinks, providing an opportunity to further enhance your experience.
Whether you want to savor the city skyline or continue exploring the world of Johnnie Walker, a reserved table at the rooftop bar is highly recommended.
Participant Feedback
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 7 reviews, participants generally found the Edinburgh Whisky Tasting experience to be quite positive. Reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides who brought the unique whiskies to life through their engaging presentations. The varied dram selection from iconic Scottish regions was also well-received. Many appreciated the non-alcoholic options and accessibility features. However, a few noted the strict dress code and limited availability of digital ID. The tasting left most visitors with a deeper appreciation for Scotland’s whisky heritage.
| Key Feedback | Positive | Neutral | Negative |
| — | — | — | — |
| Tour Guides | Knowledgeable | – | – |
| Whisky Selection | Varied, Iconic | – | – |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair friendly | Digital ID not accepted | – |
| Dress Code | – | – | Strict, no sportswear |
| Overall Experience | Engaging, Informative | – | Limited availability |
Exploring Edinburgh’s Whisky Culture
Edinburgh’s whisky culture runs deep, a vibrant tapestry that captivates visitors from around the world.
From the iconic Johnnie Walker Princes Street to the cozy Explorers’ Bothy bar, the city celebrates its whisky heritage with guided tastings, distillery tours, and a thriving bar scene.
Locals and travelers alike savor the distinct flavors of Islay, Highlands, and Speyside whiskies, uncovering the nuances that make each region unique.
Edinburgh’s whisky culture shines through the distinct flavors of Islay, Highlands, and Speyside whiskies, each region brimming with unique nuances.
The Johnnie Walker tasting experience offers a chance to explore Scotland’s whisky legacy, blending education and indulgence for an unforgettable exploration of Edinburgh’s spirited culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Additional Whisky Samples During the Tasting?
Yes, you can purchase additional whisky samples during the tasting. The experience includes five drams, but you can choose to sample more at an additional cost during the guided tasting in the Explorers’ Bothy bar.
The tour takes place in a shared setting, the Explorers’ Bothy bar, where a live tour guide leads a guided whisky tasting experience for a group of participants. The bar is wheelchair accessible.
Are Food Options Available During the Whisky Tasting?
The whisky tasting does not include any food options. However, non-alcoholic beverages are available for those who don’t wish to drink. The focus of the experience is on sampling five exceptional whiskies.
What Are the Parking Options Near the Explorers’ Bothy Bar?
There are no dedicated parking options provided for the Explorers’ Bothy bar. However, nearby public parking garages and on-street parking may be available, but visitors should check availability and rates in advance. Public transportation is recommended as the most convenient option.
Can the Tasting Experience Be Arranged for a Private Group?
The guided whisky tasting can be arranged for private groups. Participants can enjoy a personalized experience with a live tour guide and sample a selection of extraordinary whiskies from iconic Scottish regions. Private group bookings are available upon request.
The Sum Up
The Johnnie Walker Whisky Explorers Guided Tasting in Edinburgh’s Explorers’ Bothy bar offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky. With an expertly curated selection of aged whiskies, knowledgeable guides, and additional discounts, this tasting caters to both whisky enthusiasts and newcomers, providing an immersive experience that celebrates the depth and diversity of Scotland’s renowned spirit.
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