Beyond the Fringe: Barrel Art and Bottles at Capital Attraction

Press release 4th August 2009

A top Edinburgh attraction is set to receive an influx of whisky enthusiasts this summer, with the launch of a specially extended tour through the World?s Largest Collection of Scotch Whiskies and the addition of a unique barrel art installation. 

Certified as the world's largest by the Guinness book of Records, the record breaking Diageo Claive Vidiz Collection of Scotch Whiskies  was unveiled as part of a £3m new tour at the Scotch Whisky Experience earlier this year.   Becoming a must-see in the city, the new Collection Tour will be dedicated to providing an exclusive glimpse into the life and history of almost 3,500 bottles, amassed over 35 years by the collection?s original owner in Brazil.  Expert guides will recount tales of the most interesting and unusual bottles while visitors savour a specially selected mature dram and enjoy a rare chance to peruse rows and rows of diverse and treasured whiskies at their own pace.

As an added coup the new exhibition and demonstration area, which boasts quirky and unusual bottles from the collection,  is now home to the Glenfiddich barrel art exhibition.  Created by prestigious British Designer Michael Johnson to encapsulate the theme of time the display comprises four distinctive works which will be on semi-permanent display at the attraction.   

The Collection Tour will kick off with the other elements of the standard tour which include a contemporary barrel ride through whisky production and interactive nosing and tasting in new sensory rooms, before the exclusive finale.  After spending time in the collection, which is housed in a specially created glass lined vault, all visitors will receive a commemorative certificate, gift boxed whisky glass and miniature.   

The Scotch Whisky Experience is located at the top of the Royal Mile, a stone?s throw from historic Edinburgh Castle.  In addition to the new tour the attraction is home an extensive gift shop and award-winning restaurant, Amber, serving a sophisticated range of Scottish cuisine.