The inaugural Braemar Whisky Festival is set to take place later this month, on 25th and 26th October.
Founded by two women – the festival is a collaborative effort of GD Spirits’ co-directors, Julia Hall and Ann Medlock – it has attracted a lineup of whisky legends, both past and present featuring tastings, expert-led discussions, and community-driven events as it sets its sights on becoming a fixture in the whisky calendar.
Highlights include two dinners at the Fife Arms hosted by David C. Stewart MBE and Billy Walker, Master Blender of GlenAllachie with tastings of The Balvenue and GlenAllachie-inspired whisky cocktails, a chance to taste a collection of the most unique expressions to hail from Royal Lochnagar distillery, and Peter Prentice’s Royal Salute tasting event at Braemar Castle.
There is also the whisky hub in St Margarets Hall offering tastings from top brands, live music and Q&A sessions with whisky experts including tastings of Bacardi’s core range of Aberfeldy, Craigellachie, Glen Deveron, Aultmore, and Dewar’s, the most awarded blended Scotch whisky in history. Visitors can also sample whiskies from Fettercairn and independent bottler, The Strong Water Co.
For the adventurous, the festival is even offering a trek through the hills above Braemar, led by whisky expert Alan Winchester, to discover the hidden, illicit whisky stills of the past.
Co-founder of of GD Spirits and the Braemar Whisky Festival, Julia Hall 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.”