Is this tasting experience suitable for beginners?

Yes, the tour is designed for whisky lovers at all levels, with knowledgeable guides explaining each step clearly.

Are children or under-18s permitted?

No, this experience is strictly for guests aged 18 and over due to alcohol consumption.

Can I purchase the exclusive single cask whisky onsite?

This special single cask expression is only available for tasting during the tour and is not for sale outside the distillery.

Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue and tour route are fully accessible via a lift, accommodating wheelchair users.

How early should I arrive before the experience?

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled start time to allow for check-in.

Can I buy other whiskies after the tour?

Yes, there is an opportunity to sample and purchase additional new-make and aged spirits in the shop after the tour.

Discover Edinburgh’s Modern Whisky Craft: Behind the Cask Tasting Experience

Edinburgh, Scotland's vibrant capital, is rich with history, culture, and a deep-rooted whisky heritage. Step beyond the traditional tourist trails and immerse yourself in the innovative world of whisky with the "Behind the Cask: Whisky Tasting Experience" at Holyrood Distillery, located at 19 St Leonard's Lane. This intimate tasting session offers an exclusive opportunity to explore modern Scotch whisky making through a guided journey that reveals both art and science.

Holyrood Distillery stands out in Edinburgh's whisky scene by combining experimental methods with respect for classic traditions. During this 1.5-hour experience, you'll enjoy small-group, conversational tastings led by a senior guide dedicated to sharing their passion for flavour innovation. The tour begins with a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery’s unique production process, including sampling fresh "new make" spirit that gives firsthand insight into whisky's early stages.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of Holyrood’s creative use of heritage and specialty malts and how experimental yeasts shape their signature flavours. The journey continues into their Cask Room, where the magic of maturation unfolds. Here, whisky transforms over time, and you’ll learn how different barrels influence character and complexity.

The tasting highlights include not just two limited single malt releases but also an exclusive single cask dram, specially disgorged only for Behind the Cask guests. This rare whisky is not available anywhere else, making it a prized experience for enthusiasts seeking something truly unique. Savoury nibbles accompany your tasting, enriching the sensory adventure.

Holyrood Distillery’s approach challenges conventional whisky norms, believing the spirit can be exciting, complex, and delicious at any age. After the formal tasting, guests have the option to sample additional new make and aged spirits in the distillery shop.

Situated in Edinburgh’s historic heart, Holyrood adds a modern chapter to Scotland’s whisky story and is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring welcoming access for all visitors aged 18 and over. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or curious newcomer, the Behind the Cask experience offers a rare chance to engage with whisky craft in a contemporary, vibrant setting right in the city.

For those spending time in Edinburgh, this tasting pairs perfectly with exploring nearby landmarks like Arthur’s Seat and the Royal Mile, combining cultural immersion with extraordinary flavour discoveries.

About Holyrood Distillery

Holyrood Distillery is an independent distillery in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the city's first single malt distillery in over a century. The distillery produces Height of Arrows gin and single malt whiskies, and offers a range of guided tours, tastings and bar experiences tailored to both novices and enthusiasts.

Experiences include guided distillery tours, gin tastings, curated tasting flights, whisky masterclasses and special pairings such as the whisky and chocolate collaboration with The Chocolatarium. Visitors can explore the distillery floor, lab and cask room on tours that explain production methods, maturation and innovative flavour development.

Sample tastings are included with many experiences, and select offerings highlight exclusive or rare expressions, including single cask pours not available elsewhere. The Distillery Bar and cosy Lounge host tasting flights, welcome cocktails and hands-on sensory challenges that introduce botanicals, tasting techniques and cocktail making.

Holyrood also runs community-focused experiences such as EH Evenings offering complimentary guided tours and samples for residents alongside a paid bar. The distillery emphasises education and hospitality, guided by knowledgeable staff who present tasting notes, pairing guidance and the story behind each spirit. Practical details such as group sizes, booking requirements and accessibility are provided directly by the distillery at booking. Built around a clear commitment to craft, Holyrood Distillery blends Edinburgh whisky heritage with contemporary production to deliver memorable, flavour-led visits.

Guests are encouraged to book in advance for experiences, and the distillery offers a year-round range of tasting options—from quick highlights to in-depth masterclasses and private tastings for groups.