Edinburgh: The Lost Close Underground Scotch Whiskey Tasting

Embarking on a whisky tasting tour in Edinburgh is always a good idea, but experiencing it underground in historic vaults takes the experience to a whole new level. We’ve reviewed this fascinating tour to give you a clear picture of what to expect, the highlights, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What immediately caught our attention are the knowledgeable guides, the unique underground setting, and the opportunity to sample whiskies from different regions of Scotland. Plus, the option to upgrade to rarer, older, or high-end drams makes this tour versatile for all budgets and interests. The only potential hiccup might be the duration—at 1.5 hours, it’s a solid taste of whisky, but those seeking a more in-depth experience might find it a little brief.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a good story, enjoy learning about Scotch whisky, and want a memorable experience in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Whisky enthusiasts and first-timers alike will walk away with new knowledge—and maybe a new favorite dram.

Good To Know

• Unique underground venue in Edinburgh’s Old Town offers an atmospheric setting.
• Expert guides share captivating stories and whisky knowledge.
• Options to upgrade to rarer, older, or high-end whiskies enhance the experience.
• Tasting from four major Scottish regions gives a well-rounded introduction.
• Accessible and flexible with options for different budgets and preferences.
• Full refund available with 24 hours’ notice, offering peace of mind for planning.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Honest Look at the Edinburgh Underground Whisky Experience

The Setting: An Underground Vault With History

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the venue—a newly uncovered underground space known as The Lost Close. As you descend into these vaults, you immediately feel transported to a different era. The dim lighting, stone walls, and historic ambiance create a perfect backdrop for tasting whisky. You’re not just drinking; you’re stepping into a piece of Edinburgh’s hidden past. Several reviews highlight how atmospheric and intriguing the location is, with one guest noting, “Such a cool, unique experience in a fascinating place.”

The Meet and Greet: Starting at John’s Coffee House & Tavern

The tour begins at John’s Coffee House & Tavern, conveniently located behind the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile. Meeting your guide here makes it easy to find, and it’s a cozy spot to get acquainted before heading underground. Guides like Sarah, Eleanor, and Nikki have earned praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentioned, “Sarah made us feel at home and shared great stories, making the experience both informative and fun.” The guides’ enthusiasm and familiarity with Scottish whisky and history set the tone for a memorable evening.

The Guided Tour: A 20-Minute Walk Through History

After gathering at the meeting point, you follow your guide into the newly uncovered underground vaults. The brief tour around The Lost Close is packed with stories about Edinburgh’s past, the history of whisky in Scotland, and some colorful characters who helped shape the industry. Expect a lively narrative that ties the location’s history with whisky’s evolution, making the whole experience more meaningful.

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The Whisky Tasting: A 70-Minute Ceremony

The heart of the tour is the whisky tasting, where you get to sample four whiskies from different Scottish regions. The selection is designed to give an overview of Scotland’s diverse whisky landscape, from peaty Highlanders to smooth Lowland drams. Reviewers rave about the quality and variety, with many appreciating the guides’ ability to explain flavor profiles, characteristics, and what to look for when tasting whisky.

The standard tasting includes four well-chosen drams, each representing a major whisky-producing area. Guests have praised the guide’s storytelling—blending history, funny anecdotes, and expert insights. One reviewer shared, “The guide knew everything about whisky and told it with enthusiasm,” making the tasting both educational and entertaining.

Upgrading the Experience: Rarer, Older, and Premium Whiskies

For those keen to elevate the experience, options are available to upgrade your tasting. The intermediate package offers four drams of rarer, older whiskies that are usually hard to find, providing a glimpse into the world of exclusive, collectible drams. Reviewers mention that this upgrade is especially appealing to whisky fans who want to taste something extraordinary—”things you won’t find anywhere else or older versions of familiar whiskies,” as one guest noted.

The high-end tasting takes it a step further with five top-shelf whiskies—think rare, premium, or limited-edition bottles that whisky connoisseurs dream about. Guests who opt for this upgrade frequently comment on how special and memorable it makes the experience, often describing the whiskies as “luxurious” and “pinnacles of quality.”

The Duration and Flow: Is 1.5 Hours Enough?

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, which many reviews find to be a perfect length—just enough to enjoy a relaxed tasting without feeling rushed. Some seasoned whisky lovers mentioned that the time flew by, thanks to the engaging guide and lively atmosphere. However, if you’re a super-enthusiast wanting a deeper dive, you might wish for a longer session, but for most, this duration offers a satisfying overview.

Practical Details: Accessibility, Cost, and Comfort

The tour is designed for adults over 18 and is not suitable for children, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. The price, which generally includes four whiskies and a guided tour, is often viewed as offering good value—especially if you opt for the upgrade. When compared to the cost of buying similar whiskies in shops, the guided experience provides both education and entertainment at a reasonable price.

Transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point in your own way. The tour ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

The Experiences That Make It Stand Out

Guides like Nikki, Sarah, and Eleanor seem to be the stars of this tour. Guests have consistently praised their knowledge, humor, and ability to tailor the experience. One reviewer said, “Our guide was phenomenal—full of history, great stories, and lots of whiskey.” Their enthusiasm and storytelling skills are crucial in transforming a simple tasting into a memorable event.

The underground venue adds a layer of authenticity and intrigue. Several reviews highlight how atmospheric, with some describing it as a “fascinating place” that transports you back in time. The combination of history and whisky in such a setting creates a sense of occasion many find well worth the price.

The whisky selection is also praised. The four-region approach ensures a well-rounded introduction, and the availability of upgrades is a bonus for those eager to explore rarer bottles. Guests have expressed delight at discovering new flavors and learning how different regions influence whisky profiles.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early at John’s Coffee House & Tavern for a smooth start.
• Remember, you must be over 18 to participate.
• If you’re a whisky fan, consider upgrading to the medium or high-end tasting for a more exclusive experience.
• The tour is in English, so non-English speakers might want to consider language options if available.
• No smoking indoors—so be prepared to step outside if you need a smoke break.
• The activity is not suitable for those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This underground whisky tasting in Edinburgh offers a compelling blend of history, storytelling, and quality whisky. The setting alone makes it a memorable experience, while the knowledgeable guides ensure you leave with more than just a full stomach—genuine insights into Scotland’s national drink. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a seasoned connoisseur, the options to upgrade your dram and explore rarities make this tour flexible and rewarding.

It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a relaxed, educational experience that combines the allure of Edinburgh’s hidden vaults with a tasting of some of the best Scottish whiskies. The generally high reviews speak to consistent quality, friendly guides, and a genuine passion for the craft.

For those seeking an atmospheric introduction to Scotch whisky, this tour hits the mark. And if you’re looking to deepen your appreciation or sample rarer bottles, the upgrades offer excellent value.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, you need to get to the starting point at John’s Coffee House & Tavern by yourself.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is only suitable for those over 18, as it involves alcohol consumption.

What does the tour include?
It includes four whiskies from each of the major Scotch regions, guided storytelling, and access to a historic underground venue.

Can I upgrade my tasting?
Yes, during checkout you can choose to upgrade to a medium or high-end tasting, which features rarer, older, or premium whiskies.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including both the guided tour and the tasting.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to the underground location.

In summary, this underground whisky tasting tour offers a captivating, authentic experience in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Perfect for those eager to learn, taste, and enjoy Scotland’s national drink in a setting that’s as historical as the whisky itself. With friendly guides, a diverse selection of whiskies, and an atmospheric venue, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening in Scotland’s capital.

You can check if your dates are available here: