Wales is to get its first whisky festival as the “dragon’s dram” continues its renaissance. Some 25 whisky producers from around the world will be gathering in Conwy next year to offer tastings, limited editions and distillery tours.
The first Wales Whisky Fest 2024 will take place on November 1-3, 2024, at the St George’s Hotel in Llandudno, Conwy. The event has partnered with Penderyn Distillery and is sponsored by Aber Falls Distillery, Larkfire Wild Water, Whisgi Wales Podcast, and Daffodil Tours.
It comes as the industry’s domestic revival in Wales gathers pace. When the Welsh Whisky Company – now called Penderyn – sold its first bottle in 2004, it was the first commercially produced in Wales for almost a century. The country now has seven commercial producers and nine distilleries, and collectively they are helping to drive the Welsh food and drink sector.
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Organiser Sean Williams said the festival was more than just a celebration of the industry’s success; it will meet demand from enthusiasts in Wales for the world's best whiskys. “There are no whisky festivals in Wales,” he said. “Instead, many Welsh whisky lovers must travel to England or Scotland for festivals.
“Being from South Wales but now living in North Wales, I wanted to showcase the area with its unique landscape and three whisky distilleries close by. Working with Penderyn and Aber Falls Distilleries made logical sense and, with Llandudno having great road and rail access, it was an ideal home for the festival.”
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A total of 25 brands from more than 10 countries will be exhibiting at the three-day event. These will include “unique” world whisky brands as well as traditional Scotch and Irish Whiskey.
It kicks off with a “launch party” on Friday, November 1. This revolves around a paired four-course evening meal supported by Penderyn. Ticket holders will also have access to free tours and tastings at Penderyn Distillery in Llandudno, and Aber Falls Distillery in Abergwyngregyn.
Saturday sees the main exhibition with tastings, displays, food pairings, displays and special guests. Visitors will be offered a complementary highball cocktail bar sponsored by Scottish distiller Larkfire.
More tastings, masterclasses and events will be held on the Sunday. You can find more details of the event here.
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