Whisky Birmingham 2014 – the city’s only large-scale whisky festival – returns on March 1st bringing major whisky brands and local collaborations to canal-side venue The Bond in Digbeth.
Some of the biggest names in the whisky industry, including Morrison Bowmore, Gordon & MacPhail, BenRiach and Glendronach are the latest to sign-up for this special one-day celebration of whisky. The Midlands’ nearest distiller, Penderyn, has also confirmed.
Hosted by The Birmingham Whisky Club, Whisky Birmingham will also continue its tradition of collaborating with the cream of the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. Soul Food Project returns with their signature mouth-watering Deep South inspired cuisine, alongside Pop-Up Dosa, who will be serving up authentic Keralan street food. Local whisky bar The Victoria will again be hosting an onsite ‘Afterhours Speakeasy’ at the venue, ending the festival with live music and whisky cocktails.
Masterclasses on offer will see whisky paired with artisan produce including cheese, chocolate and cigars. Birmingham-based cheesemongers Curds & Whey and Kneals Chocolates join the festival line-up for the first time for special whisky-themed tasting sessions, while global cigar importers Hunters & Frankau return for a Cuban cigar and whisky masterclass. Local bloggers Living Room Whisky will be reprising their popular ‘bloggers’ choice’ stand.
Over 250 people attended last year’s festival at unique exhibition space The Bond. Festival-goers in 2014 can expect a much bigger event expert tasting advice from some of the whisky world’s most celebrated distillers, brand owners and bottlers. Retail will be provided by Birmingham’s arm of The Whisky Shop as well as Hard to Find Whisky.
Amy Seton, festival organiser and founder of The Birmingham Whisky Club, commented: “We were truly bowled over by the success of last year’s festival. It’s clear that Birmingham residents know and love their whisky, which is why we are growing the 2014 event to include more exciting and also more unusual brands and distillers.”
She added: ““As always, we welcome anyone at our events who has an interest in whisky – whether you’re an expert or a novice – there will be something for you. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about this historic drink in a fun, informal and sociable environment.”
Tickets for Whisky Birmingham 2014 are on sale now and cost £25 for entry into the main festival room and all whisky. Masterclasses, Speakeasy and food require an additional ticket/cost. For further information and to book, please see Twitter @TheWhiskyMiss or TheBirminghamWhiskyClub.co.uk.
Jeffrey Dale Starr is a whisky enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.
