A HIGHLAND village based in the Cairngorms National Park is set to host its inaugural whisky festival.
The Braemar Whisky Festival, held in the highland village between October 25 to 26, aims to celebrate Scotland’s rich cultural heritage while “focusing” on giving back to the local community.
The weekend-long event in Braemar plans to deliver “exceptional” tastings, expert-led discussions around the national drink, and community-driven events as it hopes to become a fixture in any whisky enthusiast's calendar.
Braemar Whisky Festival is a collaborative effort between GD Spirits' co-directors, Julia Hall and Ann Medlock, and has attracted a lineup of “whisky legends” with master blenders David Stewart and Billy Walker attending.
Braemar’s long-standing cultural heritage made it the “perfect setting” to honour Scotland’s national drink, the event organisers said.
Along with tastings and talks, there is an opportunity to trek the routes of the Highland whisky smugglers and illicit distillers around the hills surrounding Braemar with some horses.
Festival co-founder Hall said the event isn’t all about rare bottles of whisky and famous names but aims to capture the spirit of the industry.
She said: “We want to create something truly unique with the festival, blending the expertise of whisky legends with a welcoming experience for everyone, from seasoned connoisseurs to newcomers.
“Whisky is about bringing people together, and we want the festival to reflect that spirit.
“It’s not just about showcasing rare bottles and revered names – it's about sharing those stories and traditions with a wider audience. Plus, giving back to the Braemar community, was at the heart of what we want to achieve.”
There will also be a whisky hub in St Margarets Hall in the village which will offer tastings from top brands, with live music and Q&A sessions with whisky experts for fans of the beverage to enjoy.
You can find further information here.
