As the days get shorter and the weather chillier, it's an ideal time to warm up with a dram. Luckily, there's a plethora of whisky events to look forward to.
From a pared back Spirit of Speyside to regional whisky festivals, there's something for all this autumn and winter.
Here we take a look at some of the best events taking place in Scotland.
The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, which is enjoyed by whisky novices, budding master blenders and everyone in between, is back for an in-person Limited Edition event this November
Taking place from 3-8 November, highlights of the programme of events include:
Tickets are on sale now on the Spirit of Speyside website.
The Drinks Social Company has confirmed that the Falkirk Whisky Social will be going ahead in November.
After being postponed last year due to Covid-19, the event will be taking place at Falkirk Town Hall on 6 November, over two sessions - 12pm and 4.30pm.
Those who attend will get the opportunity to sample a wide range of different drams and learn about the unique flavour profiles and distillation methods of each whisky as well as the rich history.
There will also be the chance to purchase and take home a bottle or two of any favourites tried on the night.
Those who purchase VIP tickets will be able to attend the popular masterclasses where experts will host 40 minute in-depth tastings.
Tickets are on sale now from Fusion Tickets.
The family run Mercat Grill in the village of Whitecraig in East Lothian is holding a whisky tasting lunch on Tuesday 19 October with a special guest from Lindores Abbey Distillery in Fife, who recently launched their inaugural whisky.
The lunch will be from 1pm and aims to be a sociable, fun and informative session, which will be enjoyed over a delicious three-course lunch.
Murray Stevenson, the brand ambassador from Lindores Abbey Distillery will talk guests through the intriguing history of Lindores Abbey (located in Lindores, Fife), and its links to whisky making.
The Lindores Abbey whisky has been revived after 523 years and can be sampled at the lunch.
Tickets are £25 and include a three course lunch.
To book a place, simply call 0800 124 4112 or email info@mercatgrill.com
The 2021 Whisky Colours Festival will take place from 8-10 October 2021, in Dufftown, Speyside.
Hosted by The Whisky Shop Dufftown, the festival will celebrate the abundance of whisky in the area and allows festival goers the chance to meet some of the biggest names in the industry.
Due to the ongoing pandemic, there is a reduced programme for this year and no specific distillery trips but there's still a chance to enjoy some drams with other whisky fans, speak people behind the brands and enjoy the autumn colours of Speyside.
Tickets for this year's festival are on sale now, and more information can be found on the Whisky Shop Dufftown's website.
The team behind the Stirling Whisky Festival, which will mark its tenth year in 2021, have announced that it will be going ahead on 30 October over two sessions.
Originally scheduled for May 2021, this popular event hosted by Stirling Spirit Co, has been given a new date following the latest Scottish government guidelines.
Held at the historic Stirling Highland Hotel, whisky lovers will get to sample over 100 malts and the chance to discover the secrets of distillation, maturation, and wood finishing.
A range of Scottish food will be available to enjoy alongside whisky samples.
The first session of the 10th anniversary festival runs from 11:45 – 3.15 with a masterclass from Old Pulteney at 1pm and session two runs between 4 – 7.30pm with a masterclass at 5pm from Balblair.
Ticket prices range from £25 to £45 and are available to buy now.
Stirling Distillery will be running a launch event for the festival on Friday 29 October at 7pm at their new home on Lower Castlehill, hosted by The Scotch Malt Whisky Society.
