Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar
Single Malt Whisky Society
28 Queen Street, Edinburgh
What is it? Access to The Single Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) was previously only for members. The Kaleidoscope takes it in a new direction. First opened in 2004, the beautiful Georgian townhouse has been transformed by Glasgow designers Surface ID. The bar – originally on the first floor – has been moved downstairs. That it’s open to everyone is great news as what they do here is amazing. Boasting more than 200 “rare” single malt whiskies and spirits, beer and wine, and with the selection changing regularly throughout the year, the new bar is more modern than before but still homely and perfect for trying new whiskies.
Interesting fact: The SMWS has a large and loyal following all over the globe with 26,000 members with 19 venues in different countries. Its truly unique offering was brought to life back in the late 1970’s when Phillip "Pip" Hills, the founder, travelled around the Scottish Highlands sampling whisky from distillers straight from the cask. He loved the diversity and character that each single cask gave the whisky. This drove him and some close friends that joined him on his travels to start up the Single Malt Whisky Society, which was established in Edinburgh in 1983. After running the company for several years, “Pip” sold the business to the Glenmorangie whisky company. Most recently it has been in the hands of a group of private investors who saw a real opportunity in the company's innovative approach to whisky.
Verdict: I have always loved what they do here. They focus purely on the flavour of the particular whisky they choose to bottle. People instantly go for brands they recognise where as here you can spend hours talking to the staff about what whisky is perfect for your mood or reading over the tasting descriptions, which are superb, my personal favourites being “makes you strong like lion” and “Sinbad preparing for a journey”. They may be cryptic but once you taste them you’ll get it.
Drink: Of course whisky is the main focus, but there’s also a solid offering of beers wines and spirits. What makes this place unique is that they bottle all of their own whisky from single casks.
Food: I didn’t eat on my visit but I have eaten in The Dining Room restaurant which has moved upstairs. For me its on of the best restaurants in the capital if you are looking for great Scottish produce cooked to perfection.
Prices: Members get a discount but even for a non-member it’s still great quality considering that this is the only place that you will get to try these exquisite whiskies.
Children: I believe it’s only for grown-ups here
Perfect for: Taking friends and family who are interested in learning more about our national spirit and letting the capable staff take them on a voyage of whisky discovery.
Avoid if: You don’t care about what whisky you have as long as its cheap.
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