Edinburgh: Johnnie Walker Whisky Tour & Custom Cocktails

Summary

Edinburgh whisky tour with cocktails, flavor quiz and guided tasting

You’ll explore Edinburgh’s Johnnie Walker Experience with a local guide, take a flavor quiz, and enjoy three cocktails matched to your taste profile. Hear stories behind each blend, try your hand at Scottish toasts, and soak up the atmosphere in this immersive 90-minute tour. You’ll leave with new flavors on your mind—and maybe even a bit of smoke clinging to your jacket.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about picking the “right” flavor on that Johnnie Walker quiz — what if my palate’s just… boring? But our guide, Jamie, just grinned and said there’s no wrong answer. The place itself is this mix of old Edinburgh stone and these almost futuristic lights pulsing to music (I didn’t expect that). There’s this moment when you first step in and catch a whiff — not just whisky, but something sweet and smoky at the same time. It sticks to your coat for hours after.

Jamie had stories for every corner — like how Johnnie Walker started as a grocer’s kid blending teas before he ever touched whisky. We tried three cocktails tailored to whatever the quiz spat out for us (mine leaned peaty; my friend’s tasted like oranges and honey). I tried saying “slàinte mhath” properly — Jamie laughed, probably because I butchered it. The drinks weren’t rushed; there was time to actually taste everything, ask questions, or just stare at the city through these huge windows while everyone else chatted. The whole thing lasted about 90 minutes but honestly felt both longer and shorter than that.

The tour’s right in central Edinburgh so it’s easy to get to (we walked from Princes Street), and they said it’s wheelchair accessible everywhere. There were families with older kids too — nobody seemed out of place. I still think about that first sip: cold glass, warm burn, something floral underneath the smoke. It wasn’t what I expected at all — in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Johnnie Walker Signature Experience tour

• Enter The Johnnie Walker Experience
• Explore whisky history and craftsmanship
• Taste three customized cocktails

Top questions

How long does the Johnnie Walker Experience tour last?

The guided tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Are children allowed on the Johnnie Walker whisky tour?

Children over eight years old are welcome with a valid ticket; under eights are not permitted due to health & safety reasons.

Is the Johnnie Walker Experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the experience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Johnnie Walker Experience?

Advance booking is recommended as tours may fill up quickly.

Are non-alcoholic options available during the whisky tour?

Yes, non-alcoholic mocktails are available upon request during the experience.

What is included in the Johnnie Walker Signature Experience?

The experience includes a flavor quiz, guided tour entry, and three custom cocktails or mocktails tailored to your taste profile.

Is there a dress code for the Johnnie Walker Experience?

Smart casual attire is required; costumes or sporting attire are not allowed.

Can I bring my service animal on this whisky tour in Edinburgh?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to The Journey of Flavor guided by an expert local host, a personal flavor profile quiz at arrival, three custom-made cocktails or mocktails based on your results (or neat whiskies if you prefer), plus full accessibility throughout—just show up 15 minutes early ready for something unexpected.