Edinburgh: Underground Whisky Tasting in Old Town Vaults

Summary

Rare whiskies in edinburgh’s hidden vaults with stories and laughter

You’ll slip underground into Edinburgh’s Old Town vaults for a whisky tasting unlike any bar above. Taste five rare drams from different Scottish regions while your local guide shares stories and laughs. The air is cool, the setting is secretive, and every sip feels special — especially when you realize how few ever get to try these bottles down here.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the whisky — it was that weird, earthy chill as we ducked into the Lost Close under Edinburgh’s Old Town. Our guide, Jamie, flicked on his torch and grinned like he’d just found buried treasure. The walls smelled a bit musty, but not unpleasant — more like old books than anything rotten. Someone behind me whispered, “Is this really where we’re tasting?” and honestly, I wondered too.

Turns out, yes. Jamie started us off with a dram from Islay — peaty enough to feel like you’re licking a fireplace (in a good way). He told us about some wild distillery feud from the 1800s while we sipped. I tried to swirl my glass like I knew what I was doing, but mostly just enjoyed how the whisky warmed my hands down there in the cold. The group was small, maybe eight of us, so it felt more like friends than strangers. One guy tried to pronounce “Auchentoshan” and Jamie nearly snorted his drink.

We worked through five whiskies from all over Scotland — Speyside sweet, Highland punchy, Lowland gentle… each one came with its own story or odd bit of history. I kept catching little details: the echo of our laughter bouncing off stone walls; someone’s perfume mixing with the malt smell; that moment when you realize you’re sitting under centuries of city life just quietly sipping something rare you’d never buy for yourself. It’s hard to explain why that sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whisky tasting in Edinburgh's underground

• Arrive at historic Old Town venue
• Listen to whisky industry stories
• Explore newly uncovered underground area
• Sample 5 drams from different regions
• Enjoy guided whisky tasting experience

Top questions

How long does the Edinburgh underground whisky tasting last?

The experience lasts about 90 minutes in total.

How many whiskies are included in this tasting?

You’ll taste five different drams from various Scottish regions.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants and small children can attend if in a pram or stroller.

Are service animals allowed during the tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this whisky tasting tour.

Is public transportation nearby the starting point?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the venue.

Does this include exclusive access to an underground location?

Yes, you get exclusive access to The Lost Close vaults under Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Are pregnant travelers or those with health issues recommended to join?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your evening includes exclusive entry into Edinburgh’s Lost Close vaults beneath Old Town, five drams of rare and old whiskies from across Scotland’s regions, and stories shared by an experienced local guide throughout your tasting adventure.