Edinburgh: The Lost Close Underground Scotch Whiskey Tasting

Exploring Edinburgh’s underground whisky scene: A detailed look at The Lost Close experience

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Scotland’s most famous export—Scotch Whisky—this tour offers a compelling mix of history, flavor, and atmosphere. Starting at the John’s Coffee House & Tavern on the Royal Mile, your journey leads you into The Lost Close, a newly uncovered underground vaults beneath Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. For about 1.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of four iconic whiskies, with options to upgrade to rarer, older, or high-end drams.

What we love about this experience is how it blends local history with a passionate guide and expertly curated tastings. The underground setting adds a dash of mystery and uniqueness that elevates a typical tasting into something memorable. The second standout? The focus on Scottish regional diversity—you’ll sample whiskies from each major production area, gaining a broader understanding of what makes Scotch so varied and complex.

A possible consideration is the limited duration—some might wish for a longer session or a more extensive exploration of whisky types. Also, the activity is aimed at adults over 18, so it’s not suitable for children or non-drinkers.

This tour is best suited for whisky enthusiasts eager to learn, travelers interested in Scottish culture with a taste for storytelling, and anyone looking for a small-group, intimate experience in Edinburgh’s atmospheric underground vaults.

Key Points

• Unique underground setting enhances the whisky tasting experience
• Knowledgeable guides make the history and flavors come alive
• Regional sampling provides insight into the diversity of Scotch whisky
• Upgrade options allow you to taste rarer, older, or high-end whiskies
• Authentic stories and characters make the experience engaging and memorable
• Short but well-curated duration fits easily into a day exploring Edinburgh

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of Edinburgh’s Underground Whisky Tasting

Location and Atmosphere

Right beneath the bustling Royal Mile, the underground vaults of Edinburgh’s Old Town have been essentially hidden for centuries—until recently. The Lost Close, a newly uncovered subterranean space, offers a moody, atmospheric backdrop for whisky tasting. The setting is a highlight, transforming what could be a generic bar experience into an adventure into Edinburgh’s secret past.

Many reviewers have remarked on the atmosphere’s allure, with comments describing it as a “fascinating place” and “a very wise instructor” that added a sense of curiosity and intimacy to the tasting. The atmosphere is quiet, and the dim lighting paired with stone walls makes for a cozy, almost mystical environment—perfect for savoring whisky and stories.

Meeting Point and Tour Structure

The tour begins at John’s Coffee House & Tavern on the Royal Mile, a historic and convenient spot in the heart of Edinburgh. From there, your guide—Nickey or other knowledgeable hosts—leads you just behind the Mercat Cross, into the underground vaults. The initial walk (about 20 minutes) introduces some local history, setting the stage for the tasting.

The main event is a 70-minute session in the vaults, where four whiskies are sampled from each of the major Scottish regions: Highland, Lowland, Speyside, and Islay. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, making for an easy and logical flow.

The Tasting Itself

What makes this experience compelling is the focused, region-by-region approach. Your guide shares stories about the characters and history behind each distillery, weaving in amusing anecdotes and fascinating facts that make the tasting more than just sipping. The whisky selection is thoughtfully curated, offering a balanced introduction to Scotland’s diverse styles.

You can choose from three levels of tasting:

• Standard: Four whiskies, representative of Scotland’s main regions
• Intermediate: Four rarer, older whiskies you might not find in shops
• High-end: Five top-shelf drams, for those wanting a premium experience

Reviews from participants reveal how much they appreciated the depth and variety. One person raved, “the guide was extremely knowledgeable, funny, and kind,” which made for an engaging, personalized experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Value and Cost

The tour’s price includes four whiskies in the base package, with the option to upgrade. Considering the quality of the whiskies—some of which are rare or premium—and the underground setting, many find the experience excellent value. Compared to visiting a distillery or other whisky tours, this offers a more intimate, story-rich experience for a reasonable price.

It’s worth noting that the tour is quite short and sweet—at 1.5 hours, it’s a quick hit of whisky education. For many, this is perfect as a half-day activity with plenty of time left to explore Edinburgh.

Guides and Authenticity

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. One noted, “she knew everything about whisky and told it with a lot of enthusiasm,” while others mentioned guides being “funny, engaging, and very informative.” This genuine passion makes the tour stand out. The guides also tailor the experience, such as offering to customize tastings with the higher-end options.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is suitable for most adults over 18, but not for children, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. The meeting point is easy to find, and since the activity ends where it begins, logistics are straightforward. No transportation is included, so plan accordingly if you’re coming from outside the Old Town.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a whisky novice or aficionado, this tour offers a fantastic introduction or a refined tasting of Scottish spirits. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling, atmospheric locations, and regional diversity. The small-group setting allows for personal interaction and questions, making it ideal for those who want an up-close, authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

This underground whisky tasting in Edinburgh offers more than just a sip—it’s a journey into Scotland’s spirit, complemented by a captivating setting and expert guides. The underground vaults turn a simple tasting into a memorable adventure, and the regional variety helps deepen your appreciation for Scotch whisky’s complexity.

The value for money is solid, especially if you opt for the higher-tier tastings. While some might wish for a longer session or pairing with food, the concise format suits most visitors looking for a fun, educational, and atmospheric experience.

Perfect for history buffs, whisky lovers, or travelers seeking something uniquely Edinburgh, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and a newfound respect for Scotland’s national drink.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for whisky beginners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to introduce whisky from a beginner-friendly perspective, with guides explaining things clearly and engagingly.

What does the tour include?
It includes four whiskies from each of Scotland’s major regions, guided storytelling, and access to an underground vault in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Can I upgrade my tasting?
Yes. You can choose to upgrade to an intermediate or high-end tasting, which offers rarer, older, or more luxurious whiskies.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, with 20 minutes of guided walk and a 70-minute tasting session.

Where do I meet the guide?
At John’s Coffee House & Tavern, behind the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile. The activity ends back at the same location.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You are responsible for reaching the meeting point.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old; the activity isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women.

Can I cancel?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a small, authentic whisky experience in Edinburgh, this underground tour delivers. It combines historic ambiance, regional diversity in tastings, and guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. Whether you’re a dedicated whisky lover or just curious, you’ll walk away with new insights—and perhaps a new appreciation for Scotland’s most famous export.

You can check availability for your dates here: