GLOBAL GATHERING
Get ready to gather
September is approaching and that only means one thing at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society – it’s time for our annual Gathering celebrations to get into full swing. Mhairi Mitchell has the lowdown on what to expect this year!
ABOVE: Artist Shona Hardie (centre) with guests at the Society’s Gathering event at The Vaults in September last year
As the anticipation builds for the most exciting time of the year at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, we’re thrilled to present a sneak peek into the upcoming UK Gathering events in September.
Each of our Members’ Rooms has curated a unique experience to celebrate the spirit of the Society, bringing together members, partners and the wider whisky community. Look out for events internationally as well, wherever in the world you’re a member of the SMWS.
THE GLOBAL GATHERING LIVESTREAM
The Global Gathering invites Society members worldwide to join in a shared celebration online. Wherever you are, raise a glass with fellow members and enjoy the camaraderie that defines the Society. This virtual event will feature Gathering stories from around the world, quizzes and music. While we won’t be selling any specific tasting packs, we encourage members to enjoy recently released Gathering bottles, exploring different drams together. Stay tuned for details about when we’ll be meeting up online and we hope to see you on the night.
ABOVE: Members get together in China
ABOVE: Courtyard drams at The Vaults
ABOVE: Ambassador Olaf at The Vaults
ABOVE: Society members in London
ABOVE: Gathering at Greville Street
ABOVE: Simone at Greville Street
THE VAULTS
Thursday, 5 September: Gathering Releases Bottling Tasting
Kick off the Gathering at The Vaults with an exclusive bottling tasting. This evening promises an exceptional opportunity to sample the latest releases, meticulously crafted to highlight the individuality of each cask.
Friday, 6 September: BBQ + Dram / Live Music in the Courtyard
Join us for a delightful evening in the Courtyard featuring a BBQ and a dram (or two). Enjoy live music and, if confirmed, an extra special Black Label or Vaults Collection Masterclass.
Saturday, 7 September: The Vaults Festival
Experience The Vaults transformed into a dynamic festival, creating an engaging atmosphere for both exhibitors and members.
Explore offerings from exhibitors including East Coast Cured Charcuterie, Wasted Degrees Brewery, Alba Cooperage, Campervan and Single Cask Nation.
Also enjoy live music by the Sam Gillespie Trio, a BBQ in the courtyard, and much more.
Don’t miss out!
GREVILLE STREET
Tuesday, 17 September: Gather Round!
Our London Members’ Room celebrates the global community of whisky lovers that is The Scotch Malt Whisky Society with a tasting of four of our special Gathering bottlings.
Wednesday, 25 September: 25th Anniversary Event
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of our Greville Street location with an evening dedicated to the legacy and future of the Society. To mark this occasion, we’ll have a superb tasting of four 25-year-old whiskies, including a whisky bottled especially for the occasion, with our master ambassador John McCheyne sharing stories and events that happened here through the years.
QUEEN STREET
Saturday, 21 September: Cheers to 20 Years – Queen Street Anniversary Bash
Join us at our iconic Queen Street venue to celebrate two decades of the Society. The event will feature cocktail-paired tastings, live music, a pilot brewery, a buffet, and a Twenty-Something Dram and Bottle Lounge. Special tastings in the Pip Hill Room will showcase 20-year-old whiskies, highlighting craftsmanship and the sense of community that are core to our ethos.
BATH STREET
Saturday, 28 September: The Glasgow Gathering 2024
The Glasgow Gathering at the National Piping Centre will be a grand celebration of tradition and craftsmanship. Enjoy a three-course meal paired with five-dram tastings, accompanied by the stirring sounds of a piper. This event will not only highlight our finest whiskies but also the culinary expertise of the National Piping Centre’s catering team, emphasising our shared values and community.
ABOVE: Harking back to a Society garden party event at Queen Street Gardens as part of our Gathering celebrations