FREQUENTLY ASKED Q&A 

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Where do you host the whisky tastings?

 

Anywhere within a 3-4 hour drive of Aberdeen (where I’m based.)  But I am also more than happy to travel further for the right event, client or occasion.

 

How much does it cost?

 

I calculate a fee that is relative to the size of the group, where in Scotland the tasting will be hosted, and the range/style of whiskies you want to try.  Once you have filled in the form, I can give you an approximate quote straight away.

 

How long do the whisky tastings last?

 

The tasting itself will last for an hour on average, but if your guests or clients want to do an extended Q&A afterwards I am more than happy to factor that in.

 

How many people will you host a whisky tasting for?

 

Normally most of the whisky tastings I host are for groups of between five or twenty five, however I have held many tastings for two people and in some cases two hundred!

 

Do you choose the whiskies for the tasting?

 

Yes, once you have given me an idea of the styles of whisky you want to try I will send a selection over based on what is available and confirm with you before ordering.  However, I have held many tastings for clients or brands where they already have the whisky available.

 

Do we need to secure the venue for the tasting?

 

Yes, just tell me where and when you would like to host the tasting and I will arrange everything else.  Most of the venues I do tastings at are either hotels, bars, private houses or estates, rented accommodation (Air BNB), or offices / corporate venues.

 

Do we need an alcohol license for the venue?

 

No, I have a personal alcohol license which allows me to pour and serve whiskies anywhere as long as we have the permission of the venue.

 

How much notice do you need in advance?

 

Two weeks is the best minimum notice, primarily for ordering the whiskies and ordering any extra glassware or equipment if needed.  However, I am also exceptionally flexible and have in some cases done tastings with two days notice.

 

How many whiskies do we get to try?

 

Five is the perfect number of whiskies to sample during a whisky tasting over an hour, but I have hosted some tastings with four or six samples. It is entirely dependant on how much time you have available.

 

Some of our group don’t drink alcohol, can they still be involved in the tasting?

 

Absolutely! The experience is about learning about the culture and history of Scottish whisky, and I always keep it fun, light and entertaining for all involved.  Most of the flavour of whisky resides in the aroma, so anyone not drinking can still enjoy the full experience without tasting anything.

 

Does it matter how much experience we have?

 

Absolutely not, most of the tastings that I host have people encountering whisky for the first time properly.  I love making sure that regardless of your guests or clients prior experience, that they leave with a heightened appreciation and understanding of Scottish whisky.

 

What’s your favourite whisky?

 

An impossible question to answer, and it depends which day of the week it is!  But always I’ll make sure I bring my some of my favourites along for your group to try.

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