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Discover the world’s number one Scotch whisky in Edinburgh

Since its opening in September 2021, Johnnie Walker Princes Street has become a must-visit in Edinburgh . The immersive eight-floor experience in the heart of the capital invites visitors to explore more than 200 years of the brand's history, from the eponymous John Walker founding his own grocery shop in Kilmarnock to the spirit being sold in more than 180 countries and named as the world's number one Scotch whisky. But the experience isn't just about the past. Available exclusively at the rooftop Explorers’ Bothy Bar, STIR is a forward-thinking dining concept that'll draw in both visitors to the city and locals eager to sample its exciting menu.

To stand out in Edinburgh, a dining experience has to offer something special, and STIR does exactly that. It was designed in collaboration with chef James Close and his wife and head of pastry Maria Close, who – as owners of Darlington's two-Michelin starred Raby Hunt – are no strangers to fine dining. STIR is a game-changer, eschewing the typical wine pairings in favour of a selection of whisky cocktails curated by Johnnie Walker Princes Street's head bartender Miran Chauhan. From the Hedgerow Aquavit, made from foraged berries near the Glenkinchie distillery to the Cliff Edge Vermouth, which uses botanicals from Johnnie Walker's Four Corners of Scotland distilleries, each tells a story through flavour. The eclectic concoctions accompany innovative small plates devised by James and Maria. Starting with a baseline Four Corners Pairing of four cocktails and corresponding dishes, including beef tartare, aguachile oyster and quail caesar, guests can then extend their dining experience with either the Johnnie Walker Seasonal Pairing (which has an additional cocktail and dish spotlighting seasonal Scottish ingredients) or the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Pairing (which includes a cocktail, a small plate and a sampling of the luxurious Rare Blue Label blend).

There's plenty more to explore at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, too. Book onto the Journey of Flavour, a whisky tour for the 21st century. This immersive theatre experience brings to life the story of the founder and his family, showcasing how the brand's creativity and pioneering spirit have redefined the industry in an extravaganza of sensory moments and interactions.

No tour would be complete without sampling the product and visitors here will have the opportunity to try the world's best-selling Scotch whisky as it's never been seen (or tasted) before. A set of dispensation systems, so state-of-the-art they look like something out of a science-fiction movie, conjure up innovative cocktails specifically tailored to guests' individual flavour preferences and palates. With more than 800 possible flavour combinations, even the most knowledgeable whisky connoisseurs can try something fresh, while newcomers to the spirit are sure to find a blend that will make whisky their go-to tipple. There are even non-alcoholic options to make sure that no one misses out. Afterwards, settle into the chic vibes of the Explorers' Bothy Bar to sip on the world's most sought-after spirits – the menu features a staggering 150 whiskies – beneath the contemporary Scottish artworks.

Meanwhile in the 1820 Rooftop Bar a dizzyingly inventive cocktail menu is chock-full of unique seasonal ingredients; think pairings as eclectic as sea buckthorn and sage, carrot and lemongrass and even banana and pesto. It's also the ideal spot to take in the views of Edinburgh's imposing skyline.

Plus, visitors can stop off at the gift shop to pick up a rare blend, personalise a bottle with snazzy custom engravings and even bottle their own special-edition spirit exclusively available at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. The centre also holds the Green Tourism Gold Award – the highest sustainability accolade a visitor attraction can achieve.

Princes Street isn't the only destination that should be on the radar for whisky fans. Over the past few years, the brand has invested £185 million into lovingly restoring its four distilleries across the length and breadth of Scotland. Named by Johnnie Walker as the Four Corners, these distilleries – Glenkinchie in the Lowlands, Cardhu in Speyside, Clynelish in the Highlands and Caol Ila on the Scottish island of Islay – create a compass that guides the way to exceptional whisky. Each destination brings its own distinctive character to the table (or to the bar counter), showcasing the country's vibrant landscapes and flavours in a completely unique way. Embark on a grand tour of them all to really sample the full Johnnie Walker experience and leave with a new understanding of not only Scotch whisky, but Scotland itself.

To book your experience, visit johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com

Please drink responsibly. drinkaware.co.uk for the facts

Inside the Johnnie Walker Experience, Edinburgh’s own ‘whisky Disneyland’

Words by Becky Paskin

When John Walker established a humble grocer’s shop in 1820s’ Kilmarnock, he couldn’t ever have imagined his legacy would be an eight-storey, multisensory whisky Disneyland.

Yet the new Johnnie Walker Princes Street attraction in the centre of Edinburgh is just that – a dazzling homage to what has become the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky , its story told through an immersive blend of light, sound, food, drink and artistic performance.

The development has been a long time coming. In 2018, Johnnie Walker owner Diageo unveiled a £185 million investment plan to upgrade the visitor experiences at several of its distilleries. Each would be linked together by a central Edinburgh attraction so grand in scale and ambition that it would form the jewel in the group’s Scotch whisky crown.

Designed by BRC Imagination Arts, the same agency behind the NASA Kennedy Space Centre and Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, the attraction features state-of-the-art facilities led by some of the most talented bartenders, chefs, tour guides, whisky experts and ambassadors.

Some may argue the colourful development flies in the face of Scotch’s traditional armchair and fireside image, but the attraction deftly retains a reverence for the spirit’s luxury heritage while embracing a modern new approach to Scotch enjoyment. While it may not rival the nearby Scotch Whisky Experience (or Disneyland) for rides, there’s plenty of fun and experiential surprises for whisky lovers of all knowledge levels.

For value you can’t beat the immersive Journey of Flavour tour (£25, 90 minutes), the site’s main offering. Here the brand’s story is told through a lively and at times emotional theatrical performance before guests are invited into a modern interpretation of John Walker’s grocer’s shop for the first of three drinks.

It’s DIY highballs all round, each tailored to visitors’ individual flavour preferences (you take a short quiz at the start of the tour to determine yours). Then begins an animated journey into how flavour is created through the whisky production process. Despite being aimed at beginners, the explanation can be a little too detailed and potentially overwhelming, but there is a chance to ask questions of your guide at the end of the tour over a dram. There’s also an opportunity to tag on a coach tour to nearby Glenkinchie distillery (£48, 150 minutes).

Head down into the Whisky Makers’ Cellar (£95, 90 minutes) where select private casks are hidden away to mature for future Princes Street expressions. Here, connoisseurs can taste through four whiskies straight from the cask , as well as an exclusive blend created by one of the brand’s team of master blenders. As the casks and blends evolve over time this is a unique space whisky lovers will want to return to time and again.

Diageo claims a person can return to Princes Street every day for two years and not have the same experience twice. Certainly, guests will never tire of the remarkable unmatched views of the city from the swanky 1820 rooftop bar and terrace. Open for walk-ins for food, drams and cocktails, this is sure to be a popular addition to Edinburgh’s bar scene . There is also a second bar on-site – the Explorers’ Bothy has more than 150 rare whiskies on offer, and serves locally sourced, traditional Scottish food with a modern twist.

Although you won’t find the same romantic charm as at one of Scotland’s historic distilleries , Johnnie Walker Princes Street is indicative of whisky’s future. Disruptive, modern and immersive, it appeals to the next generation of drinkers – a generation seeking new experiences and flavours – drawing them into a world of whisky, perhaps for the first time.

Along with the Scotch Whisky Experience, Holyrood distillery (which is itself going through a transformation) and the under-construction Port of Leith distillery, Johnnie Walker Princes Street has the potential to transform Edinburgh into Scotch whisky’s new tourism capital.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Becky Paskin | Whisky + Drinks (@beckypaskin)

The Johnnie Walker Experience is at 145 Princes Street, Edinburgh and is now open and taking bookings. Visit the website to learn more.

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JOHNNIE WALKER TOUR

Book our Johnnie Walker whisky tour to uncover the secrets behind the world’s most popular whisky

Johnnie Walker Whisky Tour

On your Johnnie Walker tour, you will visit Johnnie Walker’s jewels in the crown of Lowland whisky, The Johnnie Walker Experience in Edinburgh and Glenkinchie Distillery.

Our driver guide will take you on the only tour that takes you to the hidden sources of the world-famous Jonnie Walker whisky. We include a full tour and tasting with the Glenkinchie distillery tour and we also include the Johnnie Walker blending experience tour.

FULL DAY ITINERARY

This is an example itinerary that we use as a guide, but there may be slight adjustments due to availability.

Hotel Pickup & Glenkinchie

Hotel/b&b pickup – 9:00am glenkinchie distillery tour and tasting – 10:00am-12:15pm.

We start off your Johnnie Walker tour, with a visit to Glenkinchie distillery. One of Scotland’s most beautiful distilleries. Here you will find the secrets behind the world’s most popular whisky.

The single malt whisky at Glenkinchie distillery has been included in the famous Johnnie Walker blends over the past 100 years.

A must for all whisky fans to find out about the history, the people and the single malt whisky behind Johnnie Walker.

During the period of partnership between Johnnie Walker and Glenkinchie, Glenkinchie has been selected to provide its excellent spirit for one or more of the following world-famous blends: Johnnie Walker Blue, Green, Black and Red.

Edinburgh – 1:30pm-2:30pm

After we return from the glorious East Lothian countryside, you will have time for lunch at the Malt Whisky Society or another venue nearby. Food not included.

Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Johnnie walker blending experience, edinburgh – 3:00pm-4:30pm.

Just opened last year, the Princess Street Johnnie Walker experience is a fantastic place for all whisky enthusiasts to learn about one of Scotland’s most famous exports. Taste and nose your way through the blending process. Learning about the different components of a whisky blend. Take time to sample the unique single malts and discover Johnnie Walker from it’s beginning to the world-famous drink it is now. Johnnie Walker provide a local whisky guide who talks you through the whole process.

After your Johnnie Walker Tour, you can return to your accommodation or stay at Johnnie Walker for their world exclusive personalised gifts or souvenirs, delicious cocktails and food, all including the best rooftop views of Edinburgh from the rooftop bar.

With all our tours, on our Johnnie Walker Tour, we offer hotel pickup and drop off and due to our extensive network of driver guides, we can be quite flexible on pickup location. Contact for more information.

Full Day Pricing

Our Edinburgh Johnnie Walker tour is available for individuals or groups of up to 16 people.

Hotel pick-up & drop off

Comfortable vehicle with driver

Distillery entry

Whisky tasting & guide

At least 3 whiskies per stop

Bottled water on the tour bus

Choose your tour date:

Fully booked on the day you’re visiting? Or have a larger group? Give us a call or email and we’ll see what we can do! 07588139918 or [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your covid-19 policy.

• Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff.
• Social distancing enforced throughout experience.
• Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas.
• Gear/equipment sanitized between use.
• Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized.
• Guides required to regularly wash hands.
• Regular temperature checks for staff.

When does the whisky tour run?

The tours run 7 days per week, you’ll see a calendar with date options to choose from. If you’re trying to book a tour within 24 hours of the start date, please call or email to check short notice availability.

Do you offer collection/drop-off at hotels?

The cost of the full day Glasgow whisky tour includes collection and drop off at your accommodation (within 10 miles of Edinburgh).

If you are further away from Edinburgh, please email us your accommodation address and we can send a personalised quote from there – [email protected]

What's included in the full day tour cost?

Free pickup and drop off from your accommodation or from a location in Edinburgh (within 10 miles). Two stops for whisky distillery tours and tastings – at least 3 whiskies provided per stop. One stop for a tutored tasting – at least 3 whiskies provided. Driver Guide. Bottled water provided in the tour vehicle. Itinerary booked and planned and communicated by text or email. Lunch table booked.

Excluded: Food, extra whisky

What group size is the whisky tour?

This tour is tailored to your unique circumstances. It’s available as a private 1-2-1 your or any group size up to 16 people.

I have another question

If you have any questions not addressed here, please email us at [email protected] or call us on: 07549839684

Explore Johnnie Walker with WhiskyWheels

Our reviews speak for themselves, our Johnnie Walker whisky tours are fantastic value for money

We provide bespoke whisky tours in Scotland.

07549 839 684 (UK)

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Johnnie Walker Princes Street

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Johnnie Walker Princes Street - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Review: Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Whisky Tour in Edinburgh

As you probably already know (or might assume), whisky is the national drink of Scotland so whether you are exploring the Highlands, Glasgow , or Edinburgh you will have ample opportunities to try some locally distilled whisky and check it off of your UK bucket list !

And yes, for those of you wondering, the spelling of whisky without the e is correct for whisky that is distilled in Ireland, Scotland, and Japan. Only Irish whisky is different in the sense of how the beverage is created because it goes through a triple distilling process before it is aged.

In central Edinburgh, you will find several different whisky tours that you can join but my fiance and I chose to book the Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour so that is what I will be reviewing today! You can expect to find out everything you need to know before booking including the cost, tour duration, tour experience, and what type of person would best enjoy this tour!

Personally for us, this tour was one of our top highlights during our 3 days in Edinburgh ! So let’s get into the review!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Who is Johnnie Walker?

I don’t want to spoil your tour experience so in short, Johnnie Walker came from a humble beginning running a modest grocery store in Edinburgh. It was his curiosity and passion for flavors that eventually led to him creating a whisky so well-loved that it led to it becoming the internationally sold brand that it is today.

Where is the Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour Located?

You can easily find the 8-story Johnnie Walker building at 145 Princes Street in central Edinburgh. This location is one of the busiest areas in all of Edinburgh so you won’t miss finding it even if you tried!

How long does the Journey of Flavour Tour Cost?

This particular tour is a really great price at just 30 GBR per adult! Nowadays, a tour of this quality is hard to find for such a low price. This was definitely one of the biggest selling points for us when were deciding on which whisky tour to go with.

Besides the Journey of Flavor Tour , there are also several other types of whisky tours and tastings offered at Johnnie Walker that range in price from 18 to 95 GBP.

How Long Does the Tour Last For?

From start to finish the tour runs for around 90 minutes. Right as the tour came to an end I felt like the tour had almost gone for longer than 90 minutes (in a good way). I think this is because there was so much information being shared and we were taken to many different rooms that had sensory experiences, visuals, and tastings.

Nothing felt rushed or boring and we were never in one place longer than we needed to be except at the end when we got to relax and sip on our final cocktails. This kept both of us completely immersed in what was happening to where we didn’t even think about how long we had been there. I was enjoying the tour so much that I wanted it to keep going!

Who is the Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour For?

Ideally, this tour is best suited for those who already love Johnnie Walker whisky or want to try it and learn about the history of the brand. It’s also an awesome choice for the person who can’t stand drinking whisky plain (me!). The featured drink on this tour is a Whisky Highball which will be uniquely created for you based on the results of your flavor quiz.

If you are strictly a whisky neat or on the rocks type of person this tour would not be the best choice for you because the featured drink of the tour is a whisky highball cocktail. However, out of the 3 drinks included in the tour, your final two offered at the bar can be straight Johnnie Walker. This is a nice compromise if you happen to be going with someone else who doesn’t enjoy whisky on its own.

What is the Journey of Flavor Experience Like?

Flavor quiz.

Before you arrive in person for the tour your confirmation email will tell you to fill out your flavor profile quiz which will be used during a portion of the tour for your drinks. If you forget to fill this questionnaire out you can also do this in person, just be sure to arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to begin. I ended up getting the result of green which represented fresh flavors.

History of Johnnie Walker

Our tour started off with us meeting our guide and being led to the first room where she told us the story of Johnnie Walker with various costumes. The stage had moving elements and visuals that really enhanced her storytelling and acting (even though she was very enthusiastic!). This lasted around 15 minutes or so but it was packed with so much information that I really felt connected to Johnnie Walker’s life once it finished.

Whisky Exploration + Tastings

The next room is where our group learned about the different whisky styles, flavors, and production processes. The lights and animations were really captivating and well done here! Again, the way the information was presented made it super easy to follow along without getting bored.

From here it was time for our first drink! In the drink creation room, each one of us was instructed to find the matching colored glass to our wristbands from our flavor quiz that we got at the beginning of our tour.

By simply placing my colored glass underneath the cocktail machines it knew how to create the highball flavor that was best suited for me! It was really cool to watch it work.

The table had compartments with lots of different garnishes and there was a card I could look at to grab the garnishes that matched my highball flavor. This was super fun!

The final segment of the information part of the tour landed us in yet another room with amazing multimedia! Here the focus was on how whiskies can take on different flavors depending on the ingredients used, which regions the ingredients are from, and why this matters.

There was a unique sensory element here where were able to smell the different flavor profiles that make up the different Johnnie Walker whiskies.

Final two drinks at the bar

At this point, the informational part of the tour was over and, it was time to enjoy our last two drinks from a skilled bartender who was waiting for us!

We no longer had to follow the drink recommendation that matched our bracelet and could try any of the cocktails from the rest of the menu, request an off-menu whisky-based cocktail, or keep it simple and get a whisky neat or on the rocks. This is when I realized that the inclusions of the tour had exceeded the booking cost.

Before leaving, our group was invited to check out the gift shop where we could shop all of the Johnnie Walker whisky varieties, merchandise, and souvenirs.

My fiance ended up buying the limited edition Fall Harvest blend that could only be purchased in person from the Johnnie Walker store! In doing so he got to sign his name down in the official Johnnie Walker history books!

Is the Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour Worth it?

If you are loyal to Johnnie Walker or are looking for an affordable whisky tour in Edinburgh then yes, the Journey of Flavour Tour is worth booking!

I would also highly recommend this tour for those who are new to whisky because the highball cocktails are a great way to ease your way into whisky!

The value of money on this tour is hard to beat at just 30 GBP for a 90-minute complete sensory experience! Plus, getting to the Johnnie Walker building is super easy no matter where you are staying in Edinburgh.

If you are ready to book your tour experience you can easily do so online in advance here !

Other Whisky Tours in Edinburgh to Consider

Is the Journey of Flavour Tour not the one for you? Check out these other popular Edinburgh whisky tours instead!

Intro to Whisky in Old Town Edinburgh – From the heart of Edinburgh, this 90-minute tour will teach you all about the history of whisky in Scotland and you’ll have the option to book based on how familiar you are with whisky! The intro to whisky costs just 35 GBP but you can also upgrade to the intermediate whisky tour (4 drams of rarer, older, and more unusual whiskies) which costs 49 GBP, or the high-end whisky tour (5 drams of top-shelf whisky) which costs 79 GBP.

Ultimate Whisky Experience from Edinburgh – If you want to get out of the city and sip whisky in the countryside this tour is the option for you! This tour heads 2-hours north to Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery in the highlands where you will spend 2-hours touring the entire facility and sampling a 12-year-old single malt whisky. Then finish the day off with lunch in the village of Aberfeldy and a 1-hour distillery tour and tasting at Glenturret Distillery. This experience costs 47 GBP and lasts 10 hours so while it is a long day it comes highly recommended.

Small Group Edinburgh Whisky Tour and Tasting – For just 38 GBP this tour will take you to all of the best places to drink whisky in the city while learning about the regions they come from! One of the highlights of this tour is a candlelight tasting at Megget’s Cellar. There is also a little bit of sightseeing that is done in between destinations!

3-Day Speyside Whisky Tour – Departing from Edinburgh, this tour is the ULTIMATE whisky tour for whisky connoisseurs! You will explore Speyside which is one of Scotland’s main whisky-producing regions! For just 546 GBP per person, you get admission to 5 distilleries, 2 nights stay in private facilities that include breakfast, and round-trip transportation from Edinburgh. On the way back to Edinburgh there is a stop at Cairngorms National Park to enjoy the beautiful nature. This tour is limited to 16 people so it will not be overwhelming.

Final Word on the Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Whisky Tour

Thanks for reading my review of the Journey of Flavour Tour. It was such an informative and fun experience and I hope you have just as enjoyable of a time as we did if you decide to do it!

If you’re traveling around Scotland or the rest of the UK I have listed other related guides for you down below!

Staying at a Scottish Castle Hotel: The Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club

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Comments (3)

Edinburgh Itinerary – How to spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Edinburgh

July 23, 2023 at 7:05 pm

[…] personally checked out the newer Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour on Princes Street which we both loved! It teaches you about the life of Johnnie Walker and how his […]

The Falcon Painswick: A Romantic Stay in the Cotswolds

September 4, 2023 at 3:00 am

[…] Johnnie Walker Whisky Tour Review […]

35+ Unique UK Bucket List Destinations to Add to Your List

September 10, 2023 at 8:53 pm

[…] profiles, and of course to sample various whiskies. While we were in Edinburgh we chose to do the Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour and we learned so much and had the best time tasting whisky from all of the different regions in […]

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Johnnie Walker’s New 48-Year-Old Scotch Comes With an NFT (Of Course) and an Even Better VIP Distillery Visit

The whole thing will set you back $35,000., rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

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• Share This Article

It wouldn’t be a 2022 whisky release without another limited-edition NFT .

Johnnie Walker has joined forces with BlockBar to serve up its latest aged expression alongside a digital artwork and an exclusive VIP visit to the distillery. This marks the first time the famed whisky purveyor has forayed into the non-fungible realm.

But it all starts with the Scotch , of course. The third and final release in Johnnie Walker’s Masters series, Masters of Flavour, is a blend of rare whiskies aged for at least 48 years that were sourced from the four “ghost” distilleries of Port Dundas, Brora, Glen Albyn and Glenury Royal. Housed in a hand-blown Baccarat crystal decanter, the tipple promises a rich and smoky nose that leads to a palate of fruit, gentle spice and sweet butterscotch, according to the distiller.

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The 48-year-old Scotch comes in a green Baccarat crystal decanter. 

Upon purchasing the bottle, collectors will receive a unique graphic design penned by artist Kode Abdo, a.k.a. BossLogic, as a non-fungible token (NFT). The NFT will be safely stored on the blockchain and cannot be duplicated or erased—one reason why many wine and spirits brands are now pairing new releases with NFTs.

“This innovative collaboration with BlockBar puts Johnnie Walker at the cutting edge of what is possible in whisky, providing something truly unique for whisky aficionados and collectors around the world,” Johnnie Walker’s global brand director Julie Bramham said in a statement.

You’ll visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh for exclusive experiences. 

Also tied to each bottle is a one-off trip to Scotland. You’ll visit the glitzy Johnnie Walker visitor center and the iconic Glenkinchie Distillery. You’ll also take a guided tour of the Diageo Archive and enjoy VIP tastings of the rarest drops on offer, before heading to the palatial Gleneagles Townhouse to sleep off that whisky.

The kicker is that only seven NFTs are on offer for connoisseurs. Available May 31 from 10.30 am EST on a first-come, first-served basis, each artwork is priced at $35,000 a pop. You can find out more info here .

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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5 Things You Didn’t Know About Crown Royal Whisky

• by Mark Bostock
• April 21, 2024

Crown Royal is the best-selling Canadian whisky brand in the world. First launched to international markets in the 1960s, the brand’s growing popularity is evidenced by record sales of 7.9 million cases worldwide in 2019. This gained Crown Royal the award of the World Whisky Brand Champion 2020. 

If you’ve ever been curious about the brand famously declared ‘Fit for a King’, we explore Crown Royal’s origins, production, and iconic purple velvet bag. Here are five things you didn’t know about Crown Royal whisky.

1. Crown Royal was created to celebrate the Royal Tour of Canada in 1939 

In 1939, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth made history by becoming the first reigning monarchs to visit Canada for a royal tour, traveling across the country by train. 

In celebration of the royal visit, Samuel Bronfman, a Canadian spirits entrepreneur and president of the Seagram Company Ltd, set out to create a whisky as a gift for the royal couple. Bronfman allegedly experimented with over 600 blends before presenting the first bottle of the future Crown Royal in a cut glass decanter, wrapped in a regal purple velvet bag decorated with gold stitching. 

The whisky Bronfman presented to the King and Queen was an exquisitely smooth blend. The first bottle of Crown Royal was displayed on the royal train as a symbol of the hardworking and genuine nature of the Canadian people.

The royal train transporting the monarchs across Canada was stocked with 10 cases of the whisky for gifts and receptions – quickly provoking rumors of a new unrivaled whisky that was ‘Fit for a King’. 

Until 1964, the brand was only available in Canada before being introduced to international markets including the United States, where the brand quickly became America’s best-selling Canadian whisky.   

2. The spirit is created by blending 50 whiskies 

Crown Royal is a blend of 50 Canadian whiskies, distilled at the Gimli distillery. Located on the shores of Canada’s Lake Winnipeg, in Gimli, Manitoba, the distillery site stretches over 360 acres, with 51 warehouses storing approximately 1.5 million barrels of whisky. 

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The production of Crown Royal uses rye, corn, and barley grains (with approximately 80% sourced from the local Manitoba region), combined with water which is naturally filtered through the limestone beneath Lake Winnipeg.

A combination of five different mash recipes and twelve unique column stills at the Gimli distillery produces the individual whiskies that comprise Crown Royal. Each whisky is aged for a minimum of three years, in either new or re-use charred oak barrels. 

Unlike in the U.S. where bourbon whisky can only be aged in charred new oak barrels, Canadian whisky can be matured using a variety of casks, ranging from virgin oak, charred new oak, or re-used charred oak barrels, to Cognac and Cabernet Sauvignon casks. The casks are blended to create the whisky and are also bottled, in Amherstburg, Ontario.

While the Gimli distillery is home to the brand’s production, whiskies for several Canadian whisky brands, including Canadian 83 and Seagram’s VO Whisky, are distilled at the site.

3. Crown Royal is technically not rye whisky 

Rye is a resilient grain, with the ability to withstand prolonged exposure to low temperatures. As Canada often experiences sub-zero temperatures, it is evident why rye is a staple ingredient in Crown Royal whisky. This does not mean that the whisky can automatically be categorized as rye. 

While American rye whiskey must legally contain 51% rye, Canadian distillers mash grains individually and then combine them as different whiskies. There is no legal rule regarding rye quantities that Canada’s distillers must follow, meaning Canadian blended whisky may contain zero, some, or over 50% rye. As for Crown Royal, the exact percentage of rye in the blend is a mystery.

An exception is the Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye expression which is made with 90% rye, and became the first Canadian whisky to be awarded World Whisky of the Year, in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2016.

4. The brand launched the Purple Bag Project 

From the first bottle presented to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1939, Crown Royal whisky has been packed in purple velvet bags which have become a recognizable symbol of the brand. 

Built on an ethos of generosity, the brand’s Generosity Fund has donated millions of dollars to military personnel, veterans, hospitality workers, and small businesses since 2010. 

In 2018, Crown Royal partnered with ‘Packages From Home’ to launch The Purple Bag Project , using the velvet bags for the meaningful purpose of supporting the troops.

The Purple Bag Project sends care packages containing food, toiletries, and even handwritten notes to military personnel overseas – all packed in the iconic purple velvet bags. By the end of 2020, the project has helped distribute 1 million care packages to active personnel, and those affected by natural disasters. 

Crown Royal is continuing their commitment to support the project, with the goal of packing 2 million bags by 2030. For those interested in donating, more information can be found on the brand’s website.

5. Crown Royal presented a decanter to Queen Elizabeth II 

Crown Royal advertises and sponsors motorsports, including the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series since 2006, and horse racing. 

Between 1995 and 2008, the brand sponsored the Crown Royal American Turf Stakes, a thoroughbred race run at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby day. 

In 2007, the brand honored Queen Elizabeth II’s royal visit to the Kentucky Derby, by presenting the monarch with the Crown Royal XR Extra Rare Heritage Blend. A blend of rare, heritage Canadian whisky, the XR was bottled in a custom-made decanter decorated with gold leaf – although never for sale the bottle was valued at $10,000. 

The Crown Royal XR also celebrated the brand’s heritage and creation of the first Crown Royal blend for Queen Elizabeth II’s parents in 1939.  

BONUS: The Flavored Series

Okay, so you may know this already. But, Crown Royal’s flavored whiskies have done wonders for the flavored whiskey category. 

Called The Flavor Series , of the flavors on offer include peach, apple, vanilla, salted caramel, and the new Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky .

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Mark Littler LTD trading as The Whiskey Wash

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Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience and Distillery Half Day Tour

Johnnie Walker Whisky Private Half Day Tour & Tasting

Your Luxury Private Tour and Shore Excursion to Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery the Lowland home of Johnnie Walker includes Door to Door service from Edinburgh along with an experienced Local Scottish Driver and Luxury vehicle.

• Door to Door Private Tour from any Edinburgh location or Cruise Terminal.
• Learn how Whisky is Made and sample a few Drams.
• The Services and Stories of a Local Scottish Driver.
• Distillery and Johnnie Walker Experiences included in the Tour Cost.

A Local Scottish Driver and Luxury Vehicle will collect your group from any location in Edinburgh, including all Cruise Ship terminals.

You will be driven through Edinburgh to the Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery a 45min drive to the South east of the capital.

The Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker Whisky, Glenkinchie proudly serves as one of the Four Corners of Scotland distilleries of Johnnie Walker.

They distil the Edinburgh Malt that is enjoyed around the world on its own and as a vital component of Johnnie Walker whiskies.

Glenkinchie is the undisputed champion of the light Lowland style.

With its interesting visitor centre and charming setting, this also makes an ideal first distillery visit if you find yourself ready for a break from Auld Reekie.

• Distillery Experience | Glenkinchie Flavour Journey

Journey through Glenkinchie’s rich heritage, filled with passionate people and a quest to capture the essence of East Lothian through our flavourful field-to-glass whisky process.

Your tour culminates in a tutored whisky tasting of 3 drams and a wee cocktail in our Tasting Room, an ending to a wonderful adventure at the Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker.

Located all in one unique building right in the heart of Edinburgh the Johnnie Walker Experience is outstanding and a real must visit for Whisky followers.

Not there only for whisky drinkers, but for those looking to try something new.

Discover five-star tours, immersive tastings and rooftop bars with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and other landmarks of the capital.

The bars also offer expertly crafted cocktails with locally sourced cuisine for those wanting a longer visit.

• Whisky Experience | Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour

Embark on the Johhnie Walker signature tour and join them on an epic journey through live performances, light shows, tastings and more.

On completion of your Johnnie Walker Experience you will be returned safely to your accommodation in Edinburgh or Cruise Ship embarkation location.

Tour Duration: 5 Hours

Tour Cost: £145.00 PP (Based on 6 Passengers)

Tour Notes: Entrance Fees Included

COVID-19 information

This business has confirmed that they have implemented, and will ensure ongoing compliance with, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols. The Safe Travels stamp is based on self-assessment and it is not a certification.

From £145 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0333) 3552872
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Key facilities

Tour information.

• Edinburgh Airport
• South Queensferry

½ Day

• Driver guide
• Small Group (1-16)
• Food and drink

Tour prices

From £145 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour gallery

Tour company information

Aura journeys scotland.

Aura Journeys are an established provider of Private Tours and Chauffeur Services along with Airport Transfers in Scotland. Providing high quality old fashioned service levels in Scotland using our Luxury vehicles. Located in Edinburgh, Glasgow & Stirling using Scottish locals as drivers with years of experience our tours visit Lochs & Glens to the Scottish Highlands along with the historic St Andrews and Loch Ness. All Services include full Luxury Door to Door Service, with your own private driver so there is no waiting for others, our aim is to offer a fantastic Scottish experience to all.

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Visit Aura Journeys Scotland

Opening times

Office Opening: 09:00 - 18:00 - Monday to Friday 10:30 - 16:30 - Saturday and Sunday Tours: 06:00 - 00:00 - 7 Days Per Week

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Plan your visit to Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Getting to Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Located in the heart of Edinburgh city centre’s West End, Johnnie Walker Princes Street is a mere 15-minute walk from both Haymarket Station and Edinburgh Waverley Station, or 30-minute tram or airlink bus ride from Edinburgh Airport. We look forward to welcoming you to Johnnie Walker Princes Street soon.

145 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4BL

[email protected] +44 (0)131 376 9494

Opening Hours

Our opening hours vary by department:

1820 bar: February hours: Sun-Wed 11.00am - 10pm (last orders 9.30pm), Thur-Sat 11.00am-midnight (last orders 11.30pm). March hours: 7 days, 10am-midnight (last orders 11.30pm). Book your table online .

STIR at the Explorers' Bothy Bar: Fridays & Saturdays, 6:30pm until late (last sitting at 9.30pm). Book online .

Retail: Mon - Thurs: 11am-8.30pm, Fri: 11am-9pm, Sat: 10am-9pm, Sun: 11am-8pm

Tours: Please note that our tour times vary by experience. To browse times and availability, please check our online booking page .

Edinburgh Travel Tips:

Local buses stop regularly nearby so you can opt for the eco-friendly way to travel and enjoy our tasting experiences. Metered parking within Edinburgh city is subject to availability. Local bus schedule .

Frequently asked questions

Guests are welcome to explore and shop our whisky emporium or visit the 1820 Bar or Explorers’ Bothy without taking a tour. Book a table at the 1820 rooftop bar or Explorer's Bothy whisky bar.

Children over the age of eight are welcome on the Journey of Flavour tour with a valid ticket and must be accompanied by an adult 18 years+ at all times. Please note that children under the age of 8 are not permitted on the Journey of Flavour tour due to health & safety reasons. All other tours and experiences are suitable for 18 years+ only. Children under 18 are welcome in both the 1820 Bar and Blue Label Room when accompanied by an adult until 6pm. We’re pleased to offer non-alcoholic options for children and alcohol-free quenchers. Unfortunately, Children are not permitted in Explorers’ Bothy.

For more information on our facilities, see our accessibility guide .

Well-behaved dogs are welcome in our retail area. Assistance dogs only are welcome in our bars and experience areas.

We do not have any lockers or luggage storage facilities at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. Guests are welcome to bring luggage with them on their tour but we do have limited space, and guests must be responsible for their belongings at all times. We do not advise bringing large pieces of luggage or golf bags, however if you do need a place to store items such as these, there are multiple luggage storage facilities throughout Edinburgh city centre.

Accessibility

Everyone can experience Johnnie Walker Princes Street. For more information on our facilities, see our accessibility guide .

Changing Places

We offer a Changing Places Toilet on our ground floor, the only one of its kind in Edinburgh’s West End.

DESIGNED FOR EVERYONE

Experiences includes lift access, low height tables, and easy access on all experiences.

JOHNNIE WALKER JOURNEY OF FLAVOUR EXPERIENCE

Join us on a journey of flavour.

Dreaming of a new experience? Join us for a full-sensory tour, including three cocktails tailored to your taste preferences, during our Journey of Flavour experience.

Stride into our world

Join our community of whisky explorers and stride into the world of Johnnie Walker Princes Street.

Thank You For Choosing To Make Every Sip a Story.

This is just the first step to a whole new whisky experience. We're glad to have you on board. Keep walking.

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