Edinburgh: The Lost Close Underground Scotch Whiskey Tasting

Exploring Edinburgh’s Hidden Whisky Vaults: An Honest Look at The Lost Close Underground Scotch Whisky Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and have a soft spot for whisky, this underground tasting experience might pique your interest. While I haven’t personally been through it, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a memorable evening in a unique setting that appeals to both novices and seasoned whisky lovers.

Two things that stand out about this tour are the exclusive access to The Lost Close’s underground vaults and the variety of whiskies from different Scottish regions you’ll get to sample. Plus, the lively guides really seem to make the experience special, sharing stories and history that enrich each sip.

One potential consideration is the duration—at around 1.5 hours, it’s a relatively short session, which might leave some craving more. Also, it’s not suited for children or those with mobility issues, so it’s best for adults who appreciate a relaxed, informative tasting.

All in all, if you love whisky or enjoy discovering hidden parts of a city, this tour is likely to be a hit. It’s perfect for those new to Scotch or anyone looking for a different way to experience Edinburgh’s historic charm.

Key Points

• Unique underground venue offers an immersive setting for tasting.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience educational and fun.
• You can upgrade to rare or premium whiskies, adding value for connoisseurs.
• The tour covers major Scotch regions, giving a broad overview.
• It’s a short, well-paced experience, roughly 90 minutes.
• Not suitable for children, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This tasting adventure takes place in the atmospheric underground vaults of Edinburgh’s Old Town, specifically within The Lost Close, a newly uncovered historic space. The setting alone makes it stand apart from typical whisky tastings — walking into these ancient vaults feels like stepping into a storybook. The venue’s historical vibe is complemented by the knowledgeable guides who keep the storytelling engaging and informative.

Starting Point: John’s Coffee House & Tavern

The experience kicks off at John’s Coffee House & Tavern, located just behind the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile. The guides meet travelers here, and from the moment you arrive, you’re in a cozy, welcoming environment. It’s a practical starting point—easy to find, with a relaxed atmosphere to meet your host before heading into the underground.

Transition to The Lost Close

Following your guide behind the famous Mercat Cross and past the James Braidwood statue, you’re led into the hidden vaults. This 20-minute walk through Edinburgh’s historic streets helps build anticipation for what’s to come. When you arrive in the vaults, the ambiance is both mysterious and inviting—dimly lit, cool, and full of character.

The Tasting Itself

The core of the experience is the 70-minute whisky tasting in this unique setting. You’ll be sampling four whiskies, each representing one of Scotland’s major whisky regions—Lowland, Highland, Islay, and Speyside. The guide shares stories about the origins of each distillery, the characters behind them, and what makes their whisky unique.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the whiskies. For instance, some guests opt for the intermediate or high-end tasting options, which feature rarer, older, or more luxurious drams. These upgrades seem to be well worth it, especially for those who want to try whiskies they might never find in shops or bars.

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The Guides: Knowledgeable and Entertaining

Guests consistently praise the guides for their expertise and humor. One review mentions how “Nickey was fantastic, answering all questions and sharing her love of whisky.” Others note the guides’ ability to weave Scottish history into the stories, making the tasting both educational and entertaining.

It’s clear that the guides aren’t just there to pour drinks—they enhance the experience with personality and insight, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages questions and discussion.

The Value of Upgrading

The flexibility to upgrade your tasting experience is a highlight. The standard four-drink tasting is informative and enjoyable, but the intermediate or high-end options are particularly popular among whisky lovers. Rarer drams, older whiskies, and top-shelf selections add a layer of exclusivity that many find worthwhile.

Guests who opt for the premium tasting often mention how they appreciated the opportunity to sample whiskies they’d never consider buying for themselves, elevating the experience into a bit of a luxury outing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

There are several factors that set this experience apart, beyond just the whisky itself.

The Setting

The underground vaults are a real highlight. They provide an intimate and atmospheric backdrop that elevates the tasting from ordinary to memorable. The historic nature of the venue is felt throughout, and many reviewers comment on how cool and atmospheric the location is.

The Educational Aspect

For those new to whisky, the guides’ storytelling makes complex tasting notes and regional differences approachable. They explain why each whisky tastes the way it does, tying it into Scottish history, geography, and the characters behind the brands. If you’re curious about the nuances of whisky, this is a solid primer.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

With a 4.7 out of 5 rating from over 300 reviews, this tour is evidently popular. Guests frequently mention the friendliness of the guides, the quality of whiskies, and the fun, relaxed vibe. Many reviewers say it was “one of the best whisky experiences” they’ve had, with some mentioning how much they learned and enjoyed in just over an hour.

Accessibility and Practicality

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it easy to slot into a busy itinerary. The meeting point is simple to find, and the activity is clearly structured, starting with a brief introduction, moving into the vaults, and wrapping up back at the original meeting spot.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience is generally highly praised, some points are worth considering. The duration, at about 90 minutes, might feel a little brisk for those wanting a deeper dive into whisky. If you’re already a whisky expert, you might find the standard tasting somewhat introductory, but the upgrade options can fulfill that craving.

Plus, it’s not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the setting and alcohol consumption. Also, transportation to and from the venue isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re relying on public transit or taxis.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adults who have an interest in whisky—whether you’re a complete beginner or someone with some knowledge looking to taste rarer drams. It suits travelers who appreciate a bit of history and storytelling along with their drinks, and those who want a memorable, atmospheric setting.

It’s also a good choice if you enjoy guided experiences and are comfortable in small groups. The setting is intimate, making it perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers eager to meet like-minded whisky enthusiasts.

Pricing and Value

The base price covers four whiskies, a guided tour, and entry into a historic underground space—quite a lot for the money considering the setting and expertise involved. The upgrade options, which include rarer, older, and top-shelf whiskies, are worth considering if you’re keen to elevate your tasting. Guests who opt for these often note the value in trying whiskies they wouldn’t otherwise experience.

Compared to the cost of visiting distilleries or going on larger tours, this tasting provides a concentrated dose of whisky education and enjoyment in a compact format. The fact that it’s in an exclusive underground vault adds a layer of exclusivity that many find makes it worth the price.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive on time at the meeting point, as the tour starts promptly.
• Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.
• Consider upgrading your tasting if you’re a serious whisky fan or want to try something special.
• If you want to extend your whisky exploration, look into nearby distillery tours or other whisky-related activities in Edinburgh.
• Remember, no food or transportation is included, so plan accordingly if you’re arriving from elsewhere or need to eat before.
• Dress comfortably, and wear shoes suitable for walking into underground spaces—though it’s not particularly strenuous.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. It’s best to plan how you’ll get there, whether walking, public transit, or a taxi.

Can I join this tour if I’m under 18?
No, the legal drinking age in Scotland is 18, and the tour is designed for adults. It’s not suitable for children.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the underground location and possible uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably. The underground vaults are cool, so layering might be a good idea, especially if you tend to feel chilly.

Are there different tasting options?
Yes, you can upgrade to intermediate or high-end tastings, which include rarer, older, or more luxurious whiskies.

Will I learn about Scottish whisky?
Definitely. The guides share stories about the industry’s history, notable characters, and regional differences, making it both fun and educational.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and have a curiosity for whisky, this underground tasting is a captivating way to learn about Scotland’s national drink in an atmospheric setting. While it’s not a lengthy or exhaustive exploration, it offers a well-balanced introduction packed with stories, quality drams, and a taste of Edinburgh’s secret side.

The guides’ expertise and the venue’s uniqueness shine through in reviews, and many guests find it well worth the price. It’s particularly suitable for adult travelers who enjoy storytelling, good drinks, and a bit of history in a cozy, intimate environment.

Whether you’re a whisky newbie or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour makes for a memorable part of your Edinburgh adventure—one you’ll likely remember long after the last dram.

You can check availability for your dates here: