The Rosebank whisky experience is bringing 70+ whiskies to Johannesburg

WhiskyBrother & Co. and The Firs in Rosebank are teaming up for an evening of tastings, rare pours and whisky discoveries.

There are two kinds of people who hear that dozens of whiskies are going to be in one place. The first immediately wants to know which bottles are worth trying. The second is probably wondering what they’re supposed to do with a whisky menu that long.

The Whisky Experience at The Firs is taking a more relaxed approach.

WhiskyBrother & Co. and The Firs are teaming up for the event on Friday 18 September, bringing more than 30 whisky brands to Rosebank. Tasting stations will be set up across the venue, with premium and rare expressions alongside bottles from independent producers. 

Here’s what you can expect

You can wander between the tasting stations and decide what catches your tastebuds. If you’re new to whisky, it’s an opportunity to ask questions and try different expressions without ordering a full pour at a bar, secretly hoping you’ve made the right choice.

If you’re already a whisky fan, there’s enough variety to keep things interesting. Stick to your usual or be adventurous and try something new.

Is VIP worth it?

General admission costs R390. VIP tickets cost R1500 and include access to The Atrium next to The Grillhouse, where rare whiskies will be available to taste away from the main event.

For first-timers, the R390 ticket is probably all you need. The VIP option is better suited to whisky connoisseurs wanting to explore the rare bottles.

For those who want to learn more about this spirit, The Glenlivet’s Home of Originality masterclass will take place at Katzy’s. Hosted by prestige brand ambassador Taneale van der Merwe, the session will focus on The Glenlivet’s Speyside single malts. 

The tasting includes the 15, 18 and 21 Year Old expressions, as well as two mystery whiskies. The session will also cover the whisky-making process and how different casks influence flavour.

Why should you go?

I’d say this one is best suited to people who are curious. You don’t have to arrive with a favourite whisky or know the difference between every style. Equally, if you’re already the go-to whisky recommendation person in your friend group, there are enough rare and unusual bottles to give you something to hunt down.

It also sounds like the kind of night that works well with a group. Bring the friend who knows exactly what they’re drinking, the one who orders whisky because they like the glass, and the one who’s never tried it before.

Just don’t look at the 70-plus whiskies and decide you need to get through all of them. The better plan is to choose a few, take your time, and see what you actually enjoy. The point is discovery, not endurance.

Final details:

• When: Friday 18 September, 6pm
• Location: The Firs of Rosebank 
• Cost: R390 general admission, R1500 VIP via WhiskyBrothers & Co 

This article is sponsored by Discovery

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