Edinburgh: Scotch Whisky Tasting & 3 Course Dinner

A visit to Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and exceptional whisky experiences. The Edinburgh: Scotch Whisky Tasting & 3 Course Dinner tour combines a guided tasting of 4 regional single malts and a deluxe blend with a delicious Scottish three-course meal at the renowned Amber Restaurant. Priced at $134 per person and lasting 198 minutes, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Scotch whisky, making it ideal for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The experience is hosted by an expert guide who leads a sensory journey across Scotland’s five whisky regions, revealing the secrets behind blending, maturation, and flavor profiles.

One of the tour’s standout features is the private viewing of a famous Scotch whisky collection, considered one of the seven wonders of the Scotch whisky world. Guests also receive a souvenir gift bag containing a Glencairn crystal whisky tasting glass and a distillery map, plus a one-year membership to the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society, with benefits at the award-winning whisky bar and shop. The combination of tasting, storytelling, and fine dining makes this a memorable outing for those eager to deepen their understanding of Scotch whisky in a relaxed yet expertly guided setting.

Key Points

• Guided whisky tasting of 4 regional single malts plus a deluxe blend led by an expert.
• Includes a Scottish chocolate pairing that complements the whisky flavors.
• Private viewing of one of the world’s most famed Scotch whisky collections.
• A three-course Scottish tasting menu paired with whisky at Amber Restaurant.
• Souvenir gift bag featuring a Glencairn crystal glass and a distillery map.
• Membership of the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society for 1 year, with discounts across their bar and shop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at the Top of The Royal Mile in Edinburgh

This tour begins at The Scotch Whisky Experience, located at the top of The Royal Mile, right beside Edinburgh Castle. The convenient location makes it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring the historic Old Town. The closest parking is at the NCP car park on Castle Terrace, offering easy access for those arriving by car. The venue’s modern facilities set the tone for a comfortable and engaging experience.

The tour lasts approximately 198 minutes, with a flexible starting time depending on availability. It is wheelchair accessible and suitable for anyone 18 years or older, with a Challenge 25 policy in place requiring photo ID for those under 25. Guests should plan to arrive on time to enjoy the full itinerary, including the whisky tasting, collection viewing, and dinner.

Inside the Scotch Whisky Experience: Guided Tour and Tasting

The evening kicks off with a guided tour and tutored whisky tasting led by a knowledgeable expert. Visitors learn about the origins of Scotch whisky, the art of blending, and maturation processes as if getting an inside look from inside a cask. The sensory journey covers Scotland’s five whisky regions, each with distinct aromas and flavors.

Guests sample 4 regional single malts and a deluxe blend, discovering how geography influences taste. The guide explains the unique characteristics of each region, helping to identify the different aromas and flavor notes. The tasting is group-based, creating a lively environment, but during dinner, each party is seated separately at their own table for a more intimate experience.

Exploring the Famous Scotch Whisky Collection

A highlight of this tour is the private viewing of one of the most renowned Scotch whisky collections in the world. Recognized as one of the seven wonders of the Scotch whisky world, this collection showcases rare bottles and historic memorabilia. Guests get an exclusive opportunity to see these bottles up close, adding a sense of awe and exclusivity to the experience.

The collection viewing is extended, allowing ample time to appreciate the craftsmanship behind Scotch whisky and learn about its history. Visitors receive a distillery map to help identify the bottles and learn more about their origins, making this a valuable addition for whisky aficionados.

The Whisky and Chocolate Pairing

Complementing the tasting experience is a Scottish chocolate pairing designed to enhance the whisky’s flavors. The pairing is crafted to interact harmoniously with the different profiles of the whiskies sampled. This is an unexpected delight for lovers of both fine spirits and confections, adding a sweet dimension to the tasting.

This pairing is included in the tour, providing a sensory lift that balances the richness and complexity of Scotch whisky. It’s an ideal way to explore how flavors develop and complement each other.

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Dining at Amber Restaurant: A Traditional Scottish Meal

After the tasting and collection exploration, the tour proceeds to the Amber Restaurant for a three-course Scottish tasting menu. Each course is thoughtfully paired with a dram of Scotch whisky, making for a perfectly matched dining experience. The menu features a trio of starters, a trio of mains, and dessert, all representative of Scottish cuisine.

Guests can enjoy dinner in a relaxed setting, with each booking seated separately at their own table during the meal—ideal for intimate conversations or focused whisky enjoyment. The pairing of food and whisky highlights the versatility and depth of Scottish culinary traditions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes the whisky tasting of 4 regional single malts and 1 deluxe blend, along with the Scottish chocolate pairing and the three-course meal at Amber Restaurant. Guests also receive a souvenir gift bag with a Glencairn crystal whisky glass and a distillery map. Plus, the membership of the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society for a full year offers ongoing discounts and benefits.

Note that additional refreshments beyond those listed are not included, so visitors should plan accordingly if they wish to purchase extra drinks or snacks.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

The tour is available for booking with free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, providing flexibility for planning. It is limited to 25 guests, ensuring a comfortable group size without feeling crowded. The experience is offered in English only, and dietary requirements should be communicated 72 hours prior to accommodate special needs.

Arriving early is advisable, especially for those who want to explore the surroundings or take photos of Edinburgh Castle. The meeting point at the Scotch Whisky Experience is easy to locate, and parking is accessible nearby.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is perfect for whisky lovers or curious newcomers who want to learn more in a relaxed environment. The inclusion of a famous collection, guided tasting, and dinner makes it suitable for those interested in Scottish culture and cuisine. The souvenir glass and membership add value for collectors or fans, while the comprehensive tasting offers insight into Scotland’s rich distilling heritage.

Edinburgh: Scotch Whisky Tasting & 3 Course Dinner — Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded and informative exploration of Scotch whisky, combining expert-led tasting, rare collection viewing, and delicious Scottish cuisine. The inclusive package, with a souvenir glass and membership, adds a touch of exclusivity and keeps the experience memorable long after the visit ends.

While the group tasting can be lively, the dinner provides a quieter, more intimate setting to savor the flavors. The location beside Edinburgh Castle adds the perfect historic backdrop. The price of $134 per person reflects the quality and depth of the experience, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a genuine taste of Scotland’s whisky heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour is designed around whisky tasting and is restricted to guests 18 years or older. It does not include non-alcoholic alternatives, so it may not be ideal for non-drinkers.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full tour lasts approximately 198 minutes, giving ample time for tasting, collection viewing, and dinner.

What is included in the souvenir gift bag?
Guests receive a Glencairn crystal whisky tasting glass and a distillery map to take home.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, dietary requirements should be communicated 72 hours prior to the experience for appropriate arrangements.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is the location of the meeting point?
The experience starts at The Scotch Whisky Experience at the top of The Royal Mile, beside Edinburgh Castle.

Are additional drinks included during dinner?
No, additional refreshments outside the included whisky and chocolate pairings are not included.

Is free cancellation available?
Yes, cancellations made up to 3 days in advance will receive a full refund.

How many guests participate in each tour?
The maximum group size is 25 guests, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

What sets this tour apart from other whisky experiences?
The private viewing of a famous whisky collection and the combination of tasting with a Scottish meal provide a uniquely comprehensive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby