Remember all the new craft whiskies and spirits we discovered and tasted last year? The brand ambassadors and distillers who poured us tasters of their spirits? While we're still buzzing with the happy memories of last year's Whisky Live, this year's edition is already gearing up to be held at the Capella Singapore on November 28 and 29.
With its programme of master classes, pop-up bars and rare whisky experiences now spread over two days and floors, the 2015 edition of the city's most serious (and seriously fun) learning experience packs even more punch. Tickets for general entry ($79-$134/early bird, $95-$150/regular), VIP ($234/early bird, $250/regular), a special Night Package that includes a hotel stay for two ($990), and the master classes ($35/class) go on sale today on Sistic.
In the meantime, here are four things to look forward to at this year's event:
There will be at least 90 whisky and spirit brands in attendance
This is up from last year's 70 – so, really, strategise. It helps that the event is held over two days, which gives you plenty of time to hit up booths by Glenfiddich, Nikka, GlenDronach, Monkey 47, as well as new entrants like Teeling Whiskey Distillery (Ireland), Paul John single-malts (India) and Vestal vodka (Poland).
Access to the Collector Room is free
Unlike last year's ticket top-up to enter a room full of super rare bottlings, you only need to buy tokens to purchase your dram and enjoy it in a special Collector Room. VIP ticket holders get priority access and two selected Collector Drams to enjoy.
Don't like spirits? Get a cocktail...
Barmen from The Library, Tippling Club, L'Aiglon, Anti:Dote, 28HKS, Sugarhall, The Spiffy Dapper and LongPlay each take a four-hour shift over the dram fest, and shake up cocktails to match the food turned out by the chefs from FOC, Meatsmith, Sorrel, Burnt Ends and El Mero Mero. And, oh, you'll probably get cocktail and snack coupons as part of your ticket price. Sweet?
There'll be ten master classes in session
And you need to book your tickets now – they sell out fast. Whisky brands the likes of Abelour, Kavalan, Balvenie, Nikka and Glenfiddich showcase their best bottlings and bring their big guns in to talk you through their brand. Rum legend Luca Gargano – the owner of one of the most impressive range of vintage and premium rums, and brands like Caroni, Clairin and Diamond – also taking the time to introduce his own Velier rums.
Time Out Singapore is the official media partner for Whisky Live 2015.