Spirits Soar at Heathrow: New Whisky Festival Celebrates Global Flavors from Dundee to Tennessee

Monday, April 15, 2024

Today marks the beginning of Heathrow annual Whisky Festival, a month-long event celebrating whisky at the airport from April 15 to May 14. In partnership with World Duty Free, Heathrow is hosting an array of whisky-focused activities.

Each year, the festival welcomes enthusiasts, collectors, and newcomers to explore the rich universe of whisky. This year promises an even grander showcase with the introduction of exclusive global product launches and interactive in-store experiences highlighting the diversity and adaptability of whisky, including both rare vintage varieties and modern blends.

In 2023, whisky sales made up 70% of all spirit transactions at Heathrow, averaging three bottles per minute. It remains the top choice among spirits for Heathrow travelers, followed by gin and cognac. With over 97 of the world’s top whisky brands, Heathrow boasts one of the most comprehensive selections available in global travel retail and the UK.

This festival features Whisky Ambassadors in every terminal, offering personalized guidance to help travelers select the perfect whisky gift or souvenir. Additionally, Pernod Ricard experts will host complimentary whisky masterclasses in Terminal 5 during April and May, providing expert tips on whisky tasting and serving.

The festival also introduces exclusive new whisky products, including global debuts from FABLE, Wildmoor, Bushmills, and The Dalmore’s Luminary No 2 2024 Edition single malt.

For culinary enthusiasts, this year’s festival includes whisky-infused dishes exclusively available at various Heathrow eateries, such as Big Smoke Taphouse & Kitchen’s pulled pork burger with a Monkey Shoulder glaze, Caviar House & Prunier’s smoked salmon with Woodford Reserve, and The Commission by D&M’s sirloin steak paired with a ginger whisky cocktail.

Additionally, Heathrow Rewards members can win two bottles of featured festival whiskies or a complete set of FABLE whiskies with limited-edition labels. Each FABLE collection features enchanting illustrations that bring to life the Scottish legend, The Ghost of Clanyard Bay.

Fraser Brown, Retail Director at Heathrow, commented: “As the world’s most connected airport, the annual Whisky Festival is an opportunity for us to celebrate the growing number of master-crafted world whiskies, as well as the great British brands creating one of our key exports. Whether picking up a bottle as a gift for a loved one or travel souvenir, Heathrow shoppers choose whisky over any other spirit. We are looking forward to hosting an exciting series of events that will introduce passengers to new ways to serve and enjoy whisky when they reach their destinations.”

Heathrow’s Essential Guide to Choosing the Ideal Whisky Gift:

1. Tailor to Taste Preferences

Is the recipient partial to a specific brand, distillery, or type of whisky? Enthusiasts of classic tastes might lean towards traditional Scotch whisky, while those who favor American whiskey could be delighted by a premium bourbon. For lovers of smoky notes, a peated whisky could be the perfect choice.

2. Consider the Occasion

Select a distinguished whisky for significant events such as milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or other special celebrations. Options like single barrel or limited edition whiskies add an extra touch of exclusivity.

3. Gifting as a Travel Memory

If the whisky is intended as a travel keepsake, opt for exclusive releases from the destination. A bottle only available at Heathrow or a whisky crafted locally can serve as an unforgettable memento.

Heathrow also advises passengers to consume alcohol responsibly during their travels. Beverages bought at World Duty Free should not be opened until after your journey.

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