Edinburgh Whisky Academy

08/09/2026

Every stage of whisky production leaves its fingerprint on the final spirit.

In the final article of our Why Does This Whisky Taste Like That? series, we bring together everything we've explored to show how each production decision contributes to a whisky's unique character.

If you've followed the series, we hope it changes the way you think about the next dram you enjoy.

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xsMT20

04/09/2026

A History of Scotland’s Independent Bottlers 🥃

Ever wondered why independent bottlers matter so much to Scotch whisky? Their story stretches back much further than you might think, from the merchants and grocers of the 19th century to the rise of Signatory Vintage and the huge choice of single-cask and small-batch releases available today.

Whisky author and educator David Stirk explores how independent bottlers helped satisfy a growing appetite for unusual whiskies, greater transparency and bottles from distilleries consumers might otherwise never have tasted.

What exactly is an independent bottler, and why do they matter? Whisky author and educator David Stirk explores the history, evolution and lasting influence of the companies that have expanded the world's appreciation of Scotch whisky. On 23 August, 1988, Andrew Symington registered the Signatory Vi...

03/09/2026

How many whiskies should you serve at a tasting? 2? 4? 8?

We asked some of our teachers and contributing experts and, while their answers weren't identical, they all landed around the same number… even if Gordon went a bit rogue!

Watch to find out why four or five drams might be the perfect tasting line-up. How many whiskies would be in your ideal tasting?

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xhB9j0

02/09/2026

“Sherry wood, whack!” Meanwhile, for Vic, Tamdhu 12 takes him back to being a schoolboy… and sniffing his pencil case 😂

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Clip from the Sensory module of the online Certificate in Scotch Whisky. Join Vic Cameron and Gordon Steele as they guide you through six whiskies from the tasting pack, available in the UK, EU, US and Australia.
https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xht1r0

01/09/2026

The influence of oak on Scotch whisky is undeniable, but maturation doesn't create flavour in isolation.

Our latest Why Does This Whisky Taste Like That? post explores how cask type, oak species and previous fills shape the spirit while building on everything that came before.

With tasty recommendations for Glenmorangie, Tamdhu, Glen Moray and GlenAllachie 🥃

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xsL-60

27/08/2026

What makes a great whisky tasting? We asked five of our teachers and contributing experts, including Dave Broom, Vic Cameron, Gordon Steele, Sandy MacIntyre & Joe Cabassa.

Despite their different backgrounds, every answer pointed towards a similar conclusion: a successful tasting isn't about demonstrating expertise, it's about creating an experience where people feel comfortable exploring whisky for themselves.

It might sound obvious but whether it's encouraging conversation, avoiding "right" and "wrong" tasting notes, or simply being authentic, the best hosts give people confidence rather than instruction.

If you're thinking about hosting your own tasting, or simply want to become a better whisky communicator, these insights are well worth a read.

Read the post: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xhBRN0

26/08/2026

Top tip here from Gordon regarding sherry wood maturation: colour doesn’t come from the in-drink, it comes from maturation.

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Clip from the Sensory module of the online Certificate in Scotch Whisky. Join Vic Cameron and Gordon Steele as they guide you through six whiskies from the tasting pack, available in the UK, EU, US and Australia.
https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xhrPq0

25/08/2026

Distillation is more than concentrating alcohol. Still design, copper contact and spirit cuts all influence the character of the new make spirit and help define a distillery's house style.

Our latest Why Does This Whisky Taste Like That? article explores how the shape of a still can help shape flavour. Tasting recommendations for this one include Glenmorangie, The Macallan & The Dalmore 🥃

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xsLCG0

20/08/2026

What’s your favourite whisky tasting format?

A blind tasting can challenge assumptions. A themed tasting can reveal the impact of production choices. A relaxed gathering can turn a shared dram into a memorable experience.

We asked four of our whisky experts for their favourite tasting formats and advice:

🥃 Joe Cabassa champions blind tasting; removing expectations and allowing people to experience whisky purely on what’s in the glass.

🥃 Sandy MacIntyre reminds us that every tasting should be shaped around the audience and their interests.

🥃 Gordon Steele highlights the importance of purpose: are you tasting to learn, compare, describe, buy, or simply enjoy?

🥃 Dave Broom encourages patience; allowing whisky time to open up and reveal its complexity.

The common thread? Whisky tasting is about curiosity, conversation and discovery.

Remember, you absolutely do not need to be an expert to enjoy whisky. You just need an open mind and a willingness to explore.

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xhC520

19/08/2026

Looking for a sure sign of a complex whisky? The flavour that you get at the beginning is unlikely to be the flavour you get at the end… second sips heartily encouraged. 🥃

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Clip from the Sensory module of the online Certificate in Scotch Whisky. Join Vic Cameron and Gordon Steele as they guide you through six whiskies from the tasting pack, available in the UK, EU, US and Australia.
https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xhrF00