'Whisky Bars of Edinburgh' Join Together

Press release issued 1st December 2008

Ten leading 'Whisky Bars of Edinburgh' have joined together in a new initiative to attract visitors to the capital and promote their high quality whisky experience to tourists. The scheme - created under the auspices of ScotlandWhisky, Scotland's national Whisky tourism initiative - is launched today. 

Chris Conway, of ScotlandWhisky, said

"Pubs and bars are an important part of many visitors' experience of Scotland, as is the wish to try Scotch Whisky in its home country. 'Whisky Bars of Edinburgh' is a new collaboration to ensure that visitors know where they can be ensured a great bar and whisky experience.

"Edinburgh is rightly famous for its bars and 'Whisky Bars of Edinburgh' brings together ten fantastic examples of where visitors can enjoy a dram in a traditional setting.  Each bar has a great reputation for its Scotch Whisky range and staff that have passed the Scotch Whisky training school."

Gary Still from 'Whiski Bar' on the Royal Mile , a member of the 'Whisky Bars of Edinburgh' group said:

"With bars feeling the effects of the 'credit crunch', this collaboration reflects the determination of the bars, and their partners in the Scotch Whisky industry, not to standstill during this difficult period.  Working with other bars in the group to attract locals and tourists alike, we want to show the best of Scottish hospitality and may be teach customers a little bit about our national drink along the way."

The scheme is being supported by a free 'Whisky Bars of Edinburgh' map and a more in-depth website (www.whiskybarsofedinburgh.com).  Similar schemes in Glasgow and other parts of Scotland are being developed.