Private Whisky Tasting Experiences in Edinburgh
A private Scotch whisky tasting hosted by Neil Forbes, Whisky Expert and former Glenkinchie Distillery guide. At your hotel, a private venue or a location that suits your group in and around Edinburgh.

WHISKY TASTING EDINBURGH
Discover Scotch whisky with Neil Forbes
A private whisky tasting with Neil is a relaxed, personally guided session with a Whisky Expert who has spent years introducing people to Scotland’s national drink.
Neil worked as a guide at Glenkinchie Distillery in East Lothian before founding Saltire Executive Travel. He keeps every session clear, engaging and suited to the people in the room, from complete beginners to guests who already know their Speyside from their Islay.
Each tasting can cover the history of Scotch whisky, Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, how whisky is made, the part played by water, peat, casks and maturation, and how to nose and taste whisky with confidence.
For private groups, corporate events and celebrations
Whisky tastings work well for visitors to Scotland, corporate entertaining, conferences, golf groups, family gatherings, birthdays, anniversaries, small tour groups and private celebrations. Neil can host an intimate session for a couple or arrange a format for more than 100 guests.
Tastings can take place in private homes, hotels subject to the venue’s approval, serviced apartments, private dining rooms and suitable venues across Edinburgh and the surrounding area. Most last around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Whisky tasting or distillery tour?
A private tasting brings Neil to your chosen venue for a guided session. A distillery tour takes your group to visit a working distillery. Many guests choose both.
Explore Saltire’s private Whisky Distillery Tours, or contact us to plan a private whisky tasting.
PLAN YOUR TASTING
Frequently asked questions
Who are the tastings suitable for?
Our private whisky tastings suit visitors to Scotland, corporate entertaining, family gatherings, birthdays, anniversaries, golf groups, small tour groups and anyone who wants to enjoy a Scottish experience in a relaxed setting.
Where can the tasting take place?
We can host tastings in private homes, hotels subject to the venue’s approval, serviced apartments, private dining rooms and other suitable venues throughout Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
Is it suitable for corporate entertaining?
Yes. A private whisky tasting gives you a relaxed way to entertain clients, reward colleagues or add something different to a business event. Neil can arrange the experience around your group.
How many people can take part?
Tastings can be arranged for small private groups or parties of more than 100 guests. Contact us with your requirements and we will recommend the right format.
How long does a tasting last?
Most tastings last around 90 minutes to 2 hours, giving everyone time to sample the whiskies, ask questions and enjoy the experience at an easy pace.
What is included?
Your tasting includes a selected range of Scotch whiskies, tasting glasses and an experienced whisky host. Neil will guide you through the whiskies, Scotland’s regions, distilling traditions and flavour profiles.
Is the tasting suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. No previous whisky knowledge is needed. The tasting suits complete beginners and guests who already enjoy Scotch whisky.
Can the tasting be tailored?
Yes. Neil can tailor the tasting around an introduction to Scotch whisky, a journey through the whisky regions, or a focus on particular distilleries or styles.
How do I book?
Contact us using the enquiry form, email or telephone. Let us know where you are staying, the size of your group and your preferred date, and we will plan the tasting with you.
Why choose Saltire Executive Travel?
Neil Forbes hosts every tasting. He is a Whisky Expert, experienced Scottish tour guide and former Glenkinchie Distillery guide. His sessions combine deep knowledge with warm Scottish hospitality.
BOOK A PRIVATE WHISKY TASTING
Plan a whisky tasting your guests will remember
Tell us your group size, preferred date and where you would like to hold the tasting. Neil will help you arrange a private session that suits the occasion.

