The Wonderful World of Whisky

Jim McEwan of Bruichladdich Distillery sampling whisky from a 43 year old sherry cask in warehouse #1. The South Okanagan Whiskey Tasting Society was formed in 2002 by a group of like-minded enthusiasts who gathered to share their knowledge and appreciation of a particular class of distilled spirits known around the world as whiskey (also spelled whisky in many countries).

The society is a group of over 130 now, and holds 5 whiskey tasting events (currently via Zoom) each year.

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Jan. 23

3:30 pm

2022 Tasting Event #1

A remote event this year. Plans for a pick-up Scottish meal to be provided by Bogner's. Our tribute to Robert Burns normally including bagpipes, the address "To a Haggis", a traditional Scottish meal with a fine Haggis, and of course an excellent line-up of Scotch. Sells out every year.

Mar. 20

3:30 pm

2022 Tasting Event #2

A remote event this year. Our annual St. Patricks Day dinner and tasting with some very excellent Irish Whiskies. God bless the Irish! Don't miss this one!

Apr. 24

3:30 pm

2022 Tasting BONUS Event #3

This BONUS event is one NOT TO MISS! Our very own tasting master CHAD ANDERSON gets the great pleasure of presenting "Chad's Choice" - his personal favourites from the world of whisky. Expand your mind and your taste buds!

May 29

3:30 pm

2022 Tasting Event #4

The SOWTS Annual General Meeting and tasting event always features a selection of our finest whiskies and usually includes a "big ticket" item or two. Also, remaining heels are given to members by draw. Not to be missed!

Sep. 18

3:30 pm

2022 Tasting Event #5

The September event often introduces some new, fun, tasting formats and unique products. Not to be missed!

Nov. 20

3:30 pm

2022 Tasting Event #6

The November event gives a nod to American whiskies - bourbons, ryes, even some single malts made there. Always an eye-opener!

Members Survey

This was our second members survey, and 80% responded, giving some great insights into how learning more about whiskies has expanded tastes and increased enjoyment of this wonderfully complex spirit. You can download a pdf of the summary by clicking the link below.

Survey Results summary

Survey Results full version

We are FULLY subscribed with a rather long wait list.

You are welcome to add your name to the wait list, but be prepared for a 3 year or longer wait based on current attrition rates. Membership fees for the first year are $60, and to renew each year thereafter is $35.

Click Here to add your name to our Wait List.

You must fully complete the online wait list form. Once each year you will receive an email asking you to confirm that you still want to remain on the wait list. If you don't respond within 30 days, your name will be removed.

Currently all events are remote Zoom meetings, with tasting kits available for pick up. Each tasting event kit costs $25 plus Eventbrite fees for members (tasting and meal), $35 plus fees for guest tasters when available. Guest tasting tickets must be requested by a member and are only available after member ticket sales close. Each Sunday event features 8 whiskies (15 to 20 ml. pours each). Designated drivers for all tasters is required.

The large stills at Laphroaig Distillery on the island of Islay, Scotland Our main purpose is to share our enthusiasm and knowledge for all things Whiskey (Whisky)! At our regular tasting events and special Nosing Classes, we help our members learn to detect the subtle nuances that make each whisky unique, thereby heightening their enjoyment and respect for their favourite drink.

While Scotland is famous for its whiskies, our society also recognizes that there are wonderful things to be discovered from all corners of the world, and we regularly explore other whiskies including Bourbon, Canadian, Malt Whiskies from countries other than Scotland, Irish, Japanese, Australian, Indian and even Chinese!

From time to time, Distilleries and their global distributors will arrange to present their products to us. We're a VERY captive and enthusiastic audience! They recognize that knowledgeable tasters such as us can become great ambassadors for their products to a wider market.

In September of 2016, new Canadian distillery Victoria Caledonian Distillery of Victoria, BC sent their brand ambassador Andrew Walls to present the members with information and spirits from their new facility. Andrew conducted a very informative and entertaining event, complete with stories, legends and a generous supply of whiskies, including a rare sampling of their 100% malted barley new make spirit, which was surprisingly soft and fruity. They also supplied 3 whiskies for the event, 2 of which are their own blended (vatted) malts (Dougals Dram and Among the Heather) from various Scottish Distilleries.

At our November 2013 event, our special guest host was Ruaraidh MacIntyre - a native son of Islay, Scotland - who is the Charton Hobbs brand ambassador in Canada for Glenmorangie and Ardbeg single malt scotches.

We tasted 3 Glenmorangie cask master samples (one of only 6 sets of 3 released in Canada!) being considered for a new product offering. We also sampled 3 other Glenmorangie products, an Ardbeg (Ardbog) and several American Rye and Bourbons in recognition of American Thanksgiving. Ruaraidh was presented with the SOWTS Certificate of Appreciation for his generous support of the Society.

George S. Grant of Glenfarclas Distillery in Scotland conducted an informative and entertaining tasting of an extensive line of their fine single malts at our 2012 Robert Burns (January) event.