On September the 2nd, 2023, Newcastle will once again be the venue for its second yearly Independent Whisky Festival.
This event will gather individuals passionate about whisky, including enthusiasts, experts, and newcomers, offering them a day of discovery and companionship.
Organised by Karl Glenn, founder of the North East Whisky Appreciation Society, this event promises to offer an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Whisky aficionados from around the region and beyond are eagerly anticipating this unique opportunity to sample an impressive array of independent whiskies. While traditionally associated with Scotland, Ireland, and America, whisky’s popularity has surged in Newcastle, showcasing the city’s social and friendly character.
Organiser Karl believes that whisky is one of the world’s most social beverages, often serving as a conversation starter and a way to connect with others. He understands the global reach of whisky in fostering instant connections and friendships, highlighting its role as a social glue.
Karl, an avid whisky collector with over 1500 bottles in his personal collection is the driving force behind the festival. He founded the North East Whisky Appreciation Society as a modest Facebook group which rapidly grew to become one of the country’s largest and most active whisky communities, boasting over 3000 members. Through this community, Karl and his team have cultivated a strong whisky culture in the area attracting enthusiasts and experts alike.
The Independent Whisky Festival provides a platform for attendees to explore an extensive selection of whiskies from various independent bottlers, many of which may be otherwise inaccessible. The event will be held in Walkergate at Anarchy Brewery’s taproom, creating an informal and relaxed atmosphere conducive to exploration and discovery. Attendees will receive an exclusive Glencairn glass and a lanyard, making it easier to navigate the fair and engage with fellow whisky enthusiasts.
“The Independent Whisky Festival is a celebration of quality, adventure, and community. We’re thrilled to offer attendees the chance to connect with the creators behind these remarkable whiskies and share in the joy of discovering new flavours. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your whisky journey, this fair is an opportunity to expand your horizons and create lasting memories,”
Karl“The festival is perhaps the world’s largest of its kind focused entirely on independent bottlers. What’s unique is
that Indies are leaders in innovating with spirits and not just whisky, they are passionate about creating amazing flavours, tending to release single cask/or small mall whisky often at cask strength at very reasonable prices compared with most distillery bottlings.”
The festival will feature two sessions, from 12:00 noon to 3:30 PM, and from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM, ensuring ample time for attendees to sample an impressive selection of whiskies including Lady of the Glen, Chapter 7, Artful Dodger, Claxton’s, Cadenhead’s, Single Cask Nation and Cooper’s Choice.
The Festival’s official charity is ‘Men’s Pie Club’ which aims to tackle social isolation and improve mental health, the Festival is raising money for them by way of a special bottle auction and raffle where they’ve already raised over £1000.
Tickets for the Newcastle Independent Whisky Festival can be purchased through www.trybooking.co.uk/BWVW or by searching for “Indie Whisky Love Festival” on Google. For more information and updates, whisky enthusiasts are encouraged to join the North East Whisky Appreciation Society on Facebook. www.facebook.com/groups/NEWAS
