Single Malt Whisky Tasting Experience 5pm Session

Riverside Kelham is hosting a single malt whisky tasting on Saturday 20 February, with the session starting at 17:00. The whole thing is led by David Wood, an Islay distiller who spent years working at distilleries on the Hebridean island of Islay—specifically Bunnahabhain and Lagavulin—and more recently served as Distillery Manager at Caol Ila. If you're not familiar with the name, Islay is one of the most famous whisky-producing regions in Scotland, known for the smoky, peaty style that puts it on the map.

Over the course of the session, you'll taste six single malt whiskies from across Scotland, so it's not just Islay on the table. While you work your way through the drams, Wood talks through the history of whisky production and its journey from field to table, giving you a bit of the story behind what's in the glass rather than just a list of tasting notes. It's a good way to get your bearings if you've only ever had a couple of whiskies and want to understand what actually makes them different.

Wood describes the experience as one that suits all levels, from seasoned connoisseurs to newcomers, and suggests it could work as a Christmas or Valentine's gift. Since it's on a Saturday afternoon, it's as much about the conversation as the tasting. The session runs from 17:00 at Riverside Kelham, 1 Mowbray Street, Neepsend, S3 8EN, and tickets are £33.22.