We swear, it comes round quicker and quicker every year. No, we’re not talking about Christmas – we’re talking about World Whisky Day, the annual celebration that encourages everyone to come together and enjoy a dram (or two) of the so-called ‘water of life’.
What Is World Whisky Day? How It All Got Started
Established back in 2012 by an enterprising Aberdeen University student after own hearts, its origins are fairly simple: founder Blair Bowman simply felt like his favourite tipple deserved its own day, as so many other spirits, wines and beers had at the time. That inaugural event managed to get 30 countries on board, and since that day, it’s just grown and grown, with an astonishing 250,000 apparently getting into the spirit (pun intended) of World Whisky Day every year. Essentially just an excuse to come together and try whisky, it’s intended for both connoisseurs and amateurs around the world to bond over a dram – after all, whisky unites Scotland, Ireland, the USA and Japan, who all produce their own versions of it.
A Brief History of Whisky: From Water of Life to World Favourite
So, a quick history lesson on whisky, before we continue. Originating in the booze-loving 12th century, in Gaelic, it translated as the ‘water of life’, hence why it’s known as that today. Made from fermented grains, different ones are used for different varieties, including barley, corn, rye and wheat. You can get single malt or blended whisky – the former being the purest version, the latter, well, blended.
Whisky vs. Whiskey: What’s the Difference?
Pub quiz fun fact: You may be wondering why sometimes it’s spelt without an ‘e’ and sometimes with an ‘e’. Well, without an ‘e’ is the Scottish version, the Scotch you often hear referred to (one of Bowman’s rather noble aims was to encourage more tourism to Scotland via World Whisky Day). Meanwhile, with an ‘e’ is Irish whiskey, which is – you’ve guessed it – made in Ireland. It largely comes down to a disagreement in the 1800s over how to make it – oh, and the Irish thought that theirs tasted better, hence the different spelling to differentiate it.
Whiskey (with an ‘e’ – thanks to the influence of the Irish) is also one of the key exports of the US, with its bourbon variety being particularly well-known (Hello, Jack Daniels). Made from corn and barrel-aged, it’s associated with a sweeter taste, hence why it’s often paired with cola or other sweeter mixers. Japan, who has made its own whisky since the 1870s, is (as you can guess from the spelling) heavily influenced by the Scottish version, which is smokier and oakier. Canada and England also make their own whiskies, but they’re not as well-known and this isn’t a Wikipedia page.
Discover the Traditional Whisky Selection at Cubitt House
While we might not be a traditional whisky bar, Cubitt House offers a carefully curated selection of whiskies for both aficionados and novices alike, including Single Malt Scotch classics like Lagavulin 16 Year Old, Glen Scotia 15 Year Old and Oban 14 Year Old; Irish standouts like Redbreast 12 Year Old and Limavady; American Bourbons and Ryes like Bulleit Bourbon, Rittenhouse Rye, and Elijah Craig Small Batch, and even a nod to Japanese craftsmanship with Nikka From the Barrel.
Whisky Cocktails at Cubitt House: Sours, Twists and Fresh Takes
What’s more, we’ve also got a few whisky-based cocktails to whet your appetite too. If you’re in the mood for something bright and tropical, try the June Bug. It’s a refreshing mix of Johnnie Walker Black Label, Caribbean Pineapple, Banana de Bresil, Melonade, Coconut Water and Double Dutch Soda Water. More of a sour cocktail person? Then you can’t go wrong with the Rye Sour, combining Rittenhouse Straight Rye, Aperol, Lemon and Aquafaba for a sharp, perfectly balanced serve.
Where to Drink Whisky on World Whisky Day 2025 in London
If you’re looking for the ultimate whisky experience in London this World Whisky Day, The Thomas Cubitt in Belgravia is the place to be. Boasting the most robust whisky selection across all Cubitt House pubs, it’s a haven for aficionados and curious newcomers alike.
And if after the festivities you’re keen to dive deeper into the world of whisky, join us on the 2nd July for Demystifying Whisky, a spirited evening of tasting and feasting hosted at The Thomas Cubitt. With expert Brand Ambassadors guiding you through the flavours, styles and subtleties of different whiskies, it’s the perfect way to raise a glass and learn something new.
Feeling thirsty? Book a table at your favourite Cubitt House pub now for World Whisky Day and drink a dram or two with friends.
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