Lovers of a fine distilled tipple, hear our call: Melbourne Whisky Week 2023 is set to kick off from Friday, August 18 to Sunday, August 27, a ten-day liquor-soaked celebration of the finest drops of whisky and spirits available in Melbourne.
The festival program features whisky tasting flights and pairing sessions, exciting food pop-ups across the city, masterclasses, exquisite dinners, behind-the-scenes distillery tours and plenty more to wet your whistle. From rare drams and cocktails to brand new whisky releases, it’s a must-go for aficionados and the curious alike. Here’s a snapshot of just some of the highlights:
- Sky-high dining destination Eureka 89 is hosting a degustation pairing experience on August 21 with a four-course tasting menu curated by executive chef, Renee Martillano. Experience a fascinating food and whisky matching journey, highlighting whisky’s food-friendly flavour profiles.
- In a rare dual celebration of craftsmanship, Fox’s Classic Car Collection museum invites you to feast your eyes on the elegance of automotive history – and your taste buds on the finest drops of whisky. Held on August 19 in the beloved museum, the event will showcase a hand-picked selection of whiskies from all around the world.
- Meet several accomplished whisky makers at Lygon Street whisky den Fossey’s on August 18 and 19, including Steve Timmis from Fossey’s, Josh Walker and Charlie Johnson from Timboon Distillery, and Leigh Attwood from Backwoods Distilling Co. You’ll get to sample six of their finest whiskies with a selection of delicious tapas.
- If you’d rather pair your whisky with something sugary to satisfy that sweet tooth, the whisky and cake pairing at Beneath Driver Lane on August 19 has your name all over it. Joining forces with dessert mavericks Black Star Pastry, the subterranean bar will shine a light on whisky’s diverse scope for culinary pairings, while also hosting whisky tasting classes and an exclusive Whisky Week flight throughout the program.
There’s also a glamorous 1920s-inspired festival hub at Le Bar Supper Club, a Hampton Street Trail bar hop with tasty local eats included along the journey, exclusive whisky tastings from historic distillery Little Lon, and cheese and cocktail pairings at bar 1806. For more information about the full program, go to the website.
