Whisky 101 in Edinburgh: 90-minute Introduction to Taste, History, and Process

Discover the fascinating world of whisky in Edinburgh! Join our 90-minute introduction to taste, history, and the whisky-making process. Explore a unique underground space and sample whiskies from different regions.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • CoDE Pod \’96 THE CoURT - Join us for an evening of whisky and stories in the historic heart of the Old Town of Edinburgh! This is the ideal introduction to the world of whisky - we’ll talk to you about the history of whisky, and tell you how Scottish whisky became the finest in the world.
    Along the way, we’ll sample whiskies from each of the major…
What's Included
  • Experienced Local Guide
  • Alcoholic beverages
Meal Options
  • Whisky - 4 whiskies, one from each of the major whisky production regions of Scotland
Additional Information

Welcome to Whisky 101! This is a beginners guide to the rich backstory, creation technique, and flavors of our country’s signature beverage, whisky, all condensed in an engaging 90-minute session. Our unique location, a recently discovered underground venue in Edinburgh’s Old Town, adds to the experience. Enjoy private access to this historical place,…

Location
CoDE Pod – THE CoURT
Parliament Square
Behind St Giles Cathedral, in the corner of Parliament Square, you'll fin the statue of James Braidwood, and next to that is the Code Pod Hostel, 1A Parliament Square, EH1 1RF where we'll meet you at reception! Your guide will meet you there and then take you down into our location.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(297 Ratings)
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T7342ioamyc
May 28, 2025
Kind helpful Staff! - My parents visited the The Lost Close for a 90-Minute whisky tasting today & they had a brilliant time! It was my dads 50th & he wanted to see the Crossley Engine as he is a massive steam traction engine enthusiast. I emailed the venue to ask if he could see the engine on the tour, the staff couldn't have been more helpful in facilitating this! They both had a great time tasting the whiskies & met some lovely people on the tour :)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Craig_d
May 28, 2025
There are a number of... - There are a number of steps involved, although there might be a lift. Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly and answered questions with clarity. I would recommend this experience.
Review provided by Viator
Alyssa_d
May 27, 2025
Unique, Educational, and Incredibly Enjoyable Whisky Experience - This underground whisky tasting was one of the coolest experiences we had in Scotland. Not only did we get to sample a range of incredible whiskies, but we also learned so much about the history—of both whisky and Scotland itself. The setting added such a special atmosphere, and the small group size made it feel intimate and engaging rather than rushed or touristy. What really stood out was the personal touch from the guide. Based on how we reacted to certain pours, they tailored future selections to match our tastes—which made the experience feel customized and thoughtful. It wasn’t just a tasting; it was a true learning experience and a celebration of Scotland’s culture. Highly recommend this to anyone interested in whisky, history, or just looking for something memorable and off the beaten path in Edinburgh!
Review provided by Viator
Judy_p
May 27, 2025
Whisky, NOT Scotch! 😉 - Very fun tasting experience in an old Scottish Close! The whisky's were delicious and the setting was fantastic!
Review provided by Viator
Kelly_h
May 26, 2025
Informative and fun - Nikky was super informative about the historic building we sat in for our tasting. The whiskey tasting was intimate and offered a great opportunity to learn so much about whiskey making and tasting.
Review provided by Viator
Fernm748
May 23, 2025
Incredible experience, can’t wait to come back! - Dan was so informative about all of the different whisky we tasted, the setting definitely added to the experience as well!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tatumc290
May 5, 2025
Best Whiskey Experience in Edinburgh - Sarah was an incredible guide and my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed learning all about the origins of whiskey in Scotland and tasting them. I am so glad we chose this whiskey experience over others! It is so unique in its location and was a highlight of our trip. Thanks again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nam_h
May 3, 2025
non-drinkers - Had a very nice time. Even though we didn’t drink, the tour was very informative and felt we were part of the group. Would recommend this tour also for non-drinkers. Thank you.
Review provided by Viator
Heather_l
May 1, 2025
Great experience. - Wonderful experience. Mark was super knowledgeable about the Whisky we were tasting. Small intimate space
Review provided by Viator
Todd_z
May 27, 2025
Okay Experience. - This was our first time at a whiskey tasting. The ambience was very cool as the tasting took place in a very cool basement. Our guide, while knowledgeable didn’t seem to connect with the group and it likely didn’t help that a lot of people weren’t whiskey drinkers. It also would have been helpful to have some mixers to add to it, rather than trying to drink it straight which no one seemed to enjoy. The tasting was 60 minutes and not 90.
Review provided by Viator
From $11
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).