Whisky Galore's DramFest 2025

Fri, 28 Feb, 4pm - 2 Mar, 6pm NZDT  ·  Event info
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  1. DramFest Main Event Tickets

    1. DramFest 2025 - Friday Main Event Ticket ticket

      This ticket is for Friday 28th February, DramFest Main Event from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. It includes all your stand samples for the day, access to guest experts and the Spirits Forums, as well as a branded DramFest Glencairn Whisky Glass, lanyard, pen and booklet. *Please note that the Friday event is shorter by 1 hour. This day will have reduced numbers allowing those who struggle with big crowds the opportunity for a bit more space and easier access to stands, drams and experts. It will be the same price as the other days because of this*

      This ticket is for Friday 28th February, DramFest Main Event from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. It includes all your stand samples for the day, access to guest experts and the Spirits Forums, as well as a branded DramFest Glencairn Whisky Glass, lanyard, pen and booklet. *Please note that the Friday event is shorter by 1 hour. This day will have reduced numbers allowing those who struggle with big crowds the opportunity for a bit more space and easier access to stands, drams and experts. It will be the same price as the other days because of this*

      $98.00 + $5.20 fee

    2. DramFest 2025 - Saturday Main Event Ticket ticket

      This ticket is for Saturday 1st March, DramFest Main Event from 1:00pm - 6:00pm. It includes all your stand samples for the day, access to guest experts and the Spirits Forums, as well as a branded DramFest Glencairn Whisky Glass, lanyard, pen and booklet.

      This ticket is for Saturday 1st March, DramFest Main Event from 1:00pm - 6:00pm. It includes all your stand samples for the day, access to guest experts and the Spirits Forums, as well as a branded DramFest Glencairn Whisky Glass, lanyard, pen and booklet.

      $98.00 + $5.20 fee
      Sold out

    3. DramFest 2025 - Sunday Main Event Ticket ticket

      This ticket is for Sunday 2nd March, DramFest Main Event from 1:00pm - 6:00pm. It includes all your stand samples for the day, access to guest experts and the Spirits Forums, as well as a branded DramFest Glencairn Whisky Glass, lanyard, pen and booklet.

      This ticket is for Sunday 2nd March, DramFest Main Event from 1:00pm - 6:00pm. It includes all your stand samples for the day, access to guest experts and the Spirits Forums, as well as a branded DramFest Glencairn Whisky Glass, lanyard, pen and booklet.

      $98.00 + $5.20 fee

  2. The Top Shelf

    1. The Top Shelf (Friday 2.00pm) with Dave Broom & Michael Fraser Milne ticket

      The Top Shelf returns to DramFest for 2025, and this year we are privileged to once again have this special session hosted by our very own Michael Fraser Milne and one of the world's foremost experts and authors on Scotch whisky, Dave Broom. Between them, they have over 40 years of experience in the whisky industry. This is a unique opportunity to be guided through a tasting of some of the rarest bottles of liquid history available in the country, specially selected from the archives of Whisky Galore. A special tasting opportunity that is not to be missed! Friday 2.00pm - 3.30pm Please note: -This tasting will run prior to the official opening of DramFest -It will run for 1.5hrs -It will be held in Dobson Room 1 at the Te Pae Convention Centre -It may feature some similar drams in the line-ups across the 3 days.

      The Top Shelf returns to DramFest for 2025, and this year we are privileged to once again have this special session hosted by our very own Michael Fraser Milne and one of the world's foremost experts and authors on Scotch whisky, Dave Broom. Between them, they have over 40 years of experience in the whisky industry. This is a unique opportunity to be guided through a tasting of some of the rarest bottles of liquid history available in the country, specially selected from the archives of Whisky Galore. A special tasting opportunity that is not to be missed! Friday 2.00pm - 3.30pm Please note: -This tasting will run prior to the official opening of DramFest -It will run for 1.5hrs -It will be held in Dobson Room 1 at the Te Pae Convention Centre -It may feature some similar drams in the line-ups across the 3 days.

      $240.00 + $12.30 fee

    2. The Top Shelf (Saturday 11.00am) with Dave Broom & Michael Fraser Milne ticket

      The Top Shelf returns to DramFest for 2025, and this year we are privileged to once again have this special session hosted by our very own Michael Fraser Milne and one of the world's foremost experts and authors on Scotch whisky, Dave Broom. Between them, they have over 40 years of experience in the whisky industry. This is a unique opportunity to be guided through a tasting of some of the rarest bottles of liquid history available in the country, specially selected from the archives of Whisky Galore. A special tasting opportunity that is not to be missed! Saturday 11am

      The Top Shelf returns to DramFest for 2025, and this year we are privileged to once again have this special session hosted by our very own Michael Fraser Milne and one of the world's foremost experts and authors on Scotch whisky, Dave Broom. Between them, they have over 40 years of experience in the whisky industry. This is a unique opportunity to be guided through a tasting of some of the rarest bottles of liquid history available in the country, specially selected from the archives of Whisky Galore. A special tasting opportunity that is not to be missed! Saturday 11am

      $240.00 + $12.30 fee

    3. The Top Shelf (Sunday 11.00am) with Dave Broom & Michael Fraser Milne ticket

      The Top Shelf returns to DramFest for 2025, and this year we are privileged to once again have this special session hosted by our very own Michael Fraser Milne and one of the world's foremost experts and authors on Scotch whisky, Dave Broom. Between them, they have over 40 years of experience in the whisky industry. This is a unique opportunity to be guided through a tasting of some of the rarest bottles of liquid history available in the country, specially selected from the archives of Whisky Galore. A special tasting opportunity that is not to be missed! Sunday 11am

      The Top Shelf returns to DramFest for 2025, and this year we are privileged to once again have this special session hosted by our very own Michael Fraser Milne and one of the world's foremost experts and authors on Scotch whisky, Dave Broom. Between them, they have over 40 years of experience in the whisky industry. This is a unique opportunity to be guided through a tasting of some of the rarest bottles of liquid history available in the country, specially selected from the archives of Whisky Galore. A special tasting opportunity that is not to be missed! Sunday 11am

      $240.00 + $12.30 fee

  3. Friday Tasting Sessions

    1. Tasting Session #1 - J&A Mitchell Ltd (Friday 5.00pm) ticket

      Our Campbeltown Trio Tasting are kicking off our first day at DramFest with a selection from the Springbank and Glengyle distilleries, alongside Scotland’s oldest independent bottlers, Wm. Cadenhead. This unique tasting will boast some very special drams that the team have stowed in their baggage all the way from the wee ‘toon’ itself. Friday 5.00pm

      Our Campbeltown Trio Tasting are kicking off our first day at DramFest with a selection from the Springbank and Glengyle distilleries, alongside Scotland’s oldest independent bottlers, Wm. Cadenhead. This unique tasting will boast some very special drams that the team have stowed in their baggage all the way from the wee ‘toon’ itself. Friday 5.00pm

      $80.00 + $4.30 fee
      Sold out

    2. Tasting Session #2 - Lochlea Distillery (Friday 5.00pm) ticket

      We are delighted to welcome David from the Lochlea Distillery in Ayrshire. The distillery boasts a barley to bottle approach to whisky making, with their own home-grown barley, long fermentation times and a meticulous attention to the cut of their spirit - this is not your average Lowland dram! David will be highlighting the signature style of the distillery via some special samples brought over from the distillery especially for DramFest - the perfect tasting to kick off day 1. Friday 5.00pm

      We are delighted to welcome David from the Lochlea Distillery in Ayrshire. The distillery boasts a barley to bottle approach to whisky making, with their own home-grown barley, long fermentation times and a meticulous attention to the cut of their spirit - this is not your average Lowland dram! David will be highlighting the signature style of the distillery via some special samples brought over from the distillery especially for DramFest - the perfect tasting to kick off day 1. Friday 5.00pm

      $60.00 + $3.30 fee

    3. Tasting Session #3 - Raasay (Friday 5.00pm) ticket

      Founded in 2017, the Isle of Raasay distillery is the first legal producer of whisky on this remote inner Hebridean island. With a population of just 161 people on this tiny island (62 KM2), the establishment of this distillery created a number of jobs for the local community. William Dobbie, now Managing Director of the distillery, comes to his first DramFest with a selection of very special drams from Scotland to explore the classic West coast style of this up-and-coming distillery. Friday 5.00pm

      Founded in 2017, the Isle of Raasay distillery is the first legal producer of whisky on this remote inner Hebridean island. With a population of just 161 people on this tiny island (62 KM2), the establishment of this distillery created a number of jobs for the local community. William Dobbie, now Managing Director of the distillery, comes to his first DramFest with a selection of very special drams from Scotland to explore the classic West coast style of this up-and-coming distillery. Friday 5.00pm

      $60.00 + $3.30 fee

    4. A wee dram with...Shane Batchler (Friday 5.00pm) ticket

      Shane has over 10 years working in the whisky industry and has been working with Bladnoch for the past 5 years. As Bladnoch is the only distillery in Scottish history to be privately owned by an Australian it felt fitting for him, a passionate Scotch whisky enthusiast, to represent the brand nationwide. He has brought along two very special limited-edition drams for this tasting which showcase the richer, more sherry cask influenced style that Bladnoch has to offer. Friday 5.00pm

      Shane has over 10 years working in the whisky industry and has been working with Bladnoch for the past 5 years. As Bladnoch is the only distillery in Scottish history to be privately owned by an Australian it felt fitting for him, a passionate Scotch whisky enthusiast, to represent the brand nationwide. He has brought along two very special limited-edition drams for this tasting which showcase the richer, more sherry cask influenced style that Bladnoch has to offer. Friday 5.00pm

      $30.00 + $1.80 fee

    5. A wee dram with...Carlie Dyer (Friday 6.00pm) ticket

      Starward Distillery was founded in 2004, and has since become one of the most acclaimed Australian whisky distilleries, with its modern approach to cask maturation, creative blending and its commitment to sourcing local. As Head Distiller & Head Blender at Starward, Carlie oversees all aspects of liquid production, from distillation to bottling. She will have a couple of cracker distillery bottlings on offer, which we bet you haven’t tried yet! Friday 6.00pm

      Starward Distillery was founded in 2004, and has since become one of the most acclaimed Australian whisky distilleries, with its modern approach to cask maturation, creative blending and its commitment to sourcing local. As Head Distiller & Head Blender at Starward, Carlie oversees all aspects of liquid production, from distillation to bottling. She will have a couple of cracker distillery bottlings on offer, which we bet you haven’t tried yet! Friday 6.00pm

      $30.00 + $1.80 fee

    6. Tasting Session #4 - Adelphi Selection (Friday 6.30pm) ticket

      A familiar face here at DramFest, Connal started his whisky career here in Christchurch with Whisky Galore. A move back to Scotland took him to Fife, and the renowned independent bottler Adelphi, where he is now Sales Director for them and their West Coast Distillery, Ardnamurchan. He has stashed some special bottles in his luggage from Scotland to bring us a sensational line-up of drams from the Adelphi warehouses, including a very special cask sample, an upcoming release and an exceptional bottle from the archives. Friday 6.30pm

      A familiar face here at DramFest, Connal started his whisky career here in Christchurch with Whisky Galore. A move back to Scotland took him to Fife, and the renowned independent bottler Adelphi, where he is now Sales Director for them and their West Coast Distillery, Ardnamurchan. He has stashed some special bottles in his luggage from Scotland to bring us a sensational line-up of drams from the Adelphi warehouses, including a very special cask sample, an upcoming release and an exceptional bottle from the archives. Friday 6.30pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee
      Sold out

    7. Tasting Session #5 - Mitchell's Glengyle (Kilkerran) (Friday 6.30pm) ticket

      Home to the Kilkerran Single Malt, the Glengyle distillery of Campbeltown was re-established in 2004 after its closure in the early 1920’s. Owned by J & A Mitchell of Springbank fame, Glengyle’s production runs for only a limited time each year, keeping this distillery one of Scotland’s best kept secrets. Fiona will be travelling all the way from Campbeltown, showcasing some of the characterful drams made by hand at Glengyle including an exclusive single cask, an infamous ‘cage bottle’ and a future distillery release Friday 6.30pm

      Home to the Kilkerran Single Malt, the Glengyle distillery of Campbeltown was re-established in 2004 after its closure in the early 1920’s. Owned by J & A Mitchell of Springbank fame, Glengyle’s production runs for only a limited time each year, keeping this distillery one of Scotland’s best kept secrets. Fiona will be travelling all the way from Campbeltown, showcasing some of the characterful drams made by hand at Glengyle including an exclusive single cask, an infamous ‘cage bottle’ and a future distillery release Friday 6.30pm

      $80.00 + $4.30 fee

    8. Tasting Session #6 - Kilchoman (Friday 6.30pm) ticket

      The Kilchoman distillery was founded by Anthony and Kathy Wills on the Isle of Islay in 2005. Now, in its 15th year of production, Kilchoman is considered one of the stalwarts of the Scotch whisky industry and their 100% Islay is a reality. A familiar face for many, Anthony has been attending DramFest since its inception in 2007 and we always welcome his huge wealth of knowledge to the festival. He has drawn three cask samples from the warehouses on Islay to share with you for this very special session. Friday 6.30pm

      The Kilchoman distillery was founded by Anthony and Kathy Wills on the Isle of Islay in 2005. Now, in its 15th year of production, Kilchoman is considered one of the stalwarts of the Scotch whisky industry and their 100% Islay is a reality. A familiar face for many, Anthony has been attending DramFest since its inception in 2007 and we always welcome his huge wealth of knowledge to the festival. He has drawn three cask samples from the warehouses on Islay to share with you for this very special session. Friday 6.30pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee
      Sold out

    9. A wee dram with...David Allen (Friday 7.00pm) ticket

      Easily one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries, Springbank is resolutely ‘old-school’ - not just in the style of its whisky, but the very way in which it is made and produced, on the far flung tip of the Kintyre Peninsula on Scotland’s West coast. Returning for his 6th DramFest, David will be showcasing 2 different varieties of the iconic Springbank style, which include limited and upcoming releases that have not yet to hit our shores. After 10 years at the distillery, we are always delighted to have David’s knowledge and experience at the Fest - a tasting not to be missed! Friday 7.00pm

      Easily one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries, Springbank is resolutely ‘old-school’ - not just in the style of its whisky, but the very way in which it is made and produced, on the far flung tip of the Kintyre Peninsula on Scotland’s West coast. Returning for his 6th DramFest, David will be showcasing 2 different varieties of the iconic Springbank style, which include limited and upcoming releases that have not yet to hit our shores. After 10 years at the distillery, we are always delighted to have David’s knowledge and experience at the Fest - a tasting not to be missed! Friday 7.00pm

      $45.00 + $2.56 fee
      Sold out

  4. Saturday Tasting Sessions

    1. Tasting Session #7 - From Definition to Innovation (Saturday 1.45pm) ticket

      ave Broom chats to Glenfiddich Ambassador Ross Blainey about the pivotal role the Glenfiddich distillery has played throughout whisky history and the drams that helped them get there. On offer will be an extremely rare sampling of the 1963 bottle that bolstered the definition of the Scotch whisky category and that initiated the export of single malt to the world. Following that, a sample from a 1980’s bottling, marking Glenfiddich’s growth in the category, before moving on to a modern day look at whisky, with the first ever rum finish whisky from 2001. A fourth dram of Glenfiddich 31 years old wraps up a sensational tasting that we are extremely proud and excited to bring you this DramFest. Saturday 1.45pm

      ave Broom chats to Glenfiddich Ambassador Ross Blainey about the pivotal role the Glenfiddich distillery has played throughout whisky history and the drams that helped them get there. On offer will be an extremely rare sampling of the 1963 bottle that bolstered the definition of the Scotch whisky category and that initiated the export of single malt to the world. Following that, a sample from a 1980’s bottling, marking Glenfiddich’s growth in the category, before moving on to a modern day look at whisky, with the first ever rum finish whisky from 2001. A fourth dram of Glenfiddich 31 years old wraps up a sensational tasting that we are extremely proud and excited to bring you this DramFest. Saturday 1.45pm

      $160.00 + $8.30 fee

    2. Tasting #8 - The Glenturret (Saturday 2.00pm) ticket

      Hailing from the small village of Crieff lies Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery that’s still in operation, with records dating all the way back to 1756. Ian has been involved in all aspects of the Distillery’s production since he began at the The Glenturret nearly 20 years ago. Now in his role as Distillery Director he overseas the creation of New Make Spirit through to warehousing and bottling. He will be bringing along some exclusive cask samples from the distillery to showcase at this tasting - an opportunity to gain some real insight into this iconic Highland Distillery. Saturday 2:00pm

      Hailing from the small village of Crieff lies Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery that’s still in operation, with records dating all the way back to 1756. Ian has been involved in all aspects of the Distillery’s production since he began at the The Glenturret nearly 20 years ago. Now in his role as Distillery Director he overseas the creation of New Make Spirit through to warehousing and bottling. He will be bringing along some exclusive cask samples from the distillery to showcase at this tasting - an opportunity to gain some real insight into this iconic Highland Distillery. Saturday 2:00pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee

    3. Tasting Session #9 - Glenfarclas (Saturday 2.00pm) ticket

      The fiercely independent Grants of Glenfarclas are joining us for DramFest once again, bringing their iconic old sherry cask matured whiskies from the heart of Speyside. The Grants have supported DramFest since its inception in 2007, and we are delighted as ever to see their return. Ian McWilliam, a familiar face for many NZ Glenfarclas fans, brings us some extremely special line-up of Family Cask samples, starting from the 60’s through to the 90’s, to try at this tasting - a spectacular opportunity to sample some liquid history from the heart of Speyside. Saturday 2:00pm

      The fiercely independent Grants of Glenfarclas are joining us for DramFest once again, bringing their iconic old sherry cask matured whiskies from the heart of Speyside. The Grants have supported DramFest since its inception in 2007, and we are delighted as ever to see their return. Ian McWilliam, a familiar face for many NZ Glenfarclas fans, brings us some extremely special line-up of Family Cask samples, starting from the 60’s through to the 90’s, to try at this tasting - a spectacular opportunity to sample some liquid history from the heart of Speyside. Saturday 2:00pm

      $90.00 + $4.80 fee
      Sold out

    4. A wee dram with... Lucy Ross-Stewart (Saturday 2.00pm) ticket

      Founded in 2017, the Isle of Raasay distillery is the first legal producer of whisky on this remote inner Hebridean island. It’s style is uniquely West Coast, with a twist - using a combination of casks that include ex-Tuscan Red Wine - a nod to the origins of their Italian stills. Lucy manages the day-to-day communications with the distillery’s international trade customers, and relishes the opportunity to raid the distillery for unique limited editions to showcase Raasay on the world stage. Saturday 2:00pm

      Founded in 2017, the Isle of Raasay distillery is the first legal producer of whisky on this remote inner Hebridean island. It’s style is uniquely West Coast, with a twist - using a combination of casks that include ex-Tuscan Red Wine - a nod to the origins of their Italian stills. Lucy manages the day-to-day communications with the distillery’s international trade customers, and relishes the opportunity to raid the distillery for unique limited editions to showcase Raasay on the world stage. Saturday 2:00pm

      $30.00 + $1.80 fee

    5. A wee dram with...Ethan Chai (Saturday 3.00pm) ticket

      Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Michter's has a rich and long legacy of offering traditional American whiskeys of uncompromising quality and was voted ‘Most Admired Whisky 2024’. With each of its limited production offerings aged to its peak maturity, Michter's highly acclaimed portfolio includes bourbon, rye, and American whiskey. Ethan, their Asia Pacific Sales Director has selected a couple of rather special bottlings for this session, showcasing some of their aged expressions. Saturday 3:00pm

      Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Michter's has a rich and long legacy of offering traditional American whiskeys of uncompromising quality and was voted ‘Most Admired Whisky 2024’. With each of its limited production offerings aged to its peak maturity, Michter's highly acclaimed portfolio includes bourbon, rye, and American whiskey. Ethan, their Asia Pacific Sales Director has selected a couple of rather special bottlings for this session, showcasing some of their aged expressions. Saturday 3:00pm

      $45.00 + $2.56 fee
      Sold out

    6. Tasting Session #10: Pōkeno Distillery (Saturday 3.30pm) ticket

      Matt has worked in the Global Whisky Industry for over 25 years, and together with his wife Celine, he founded the Pōkeno Whisky Company in 2017. Dedicated to crafting only the finest single malts out of his local Waikato ingredients, Matt and the team pride themselves in creating innovative and creative whiskies, which are a reflection of the culture and climate of Aotearoa New Zealand. He is bringing down some very special expressions for this tasting, including a world first Totara cask matured whisky, using a cask created from windfall by their own Cooper, Mike Tawse. Saturday 3:30pm

      Matt has worked in the Global Whisky Industry for over 25 years, and together with his wife Celine, he founded the Pōkeno Whisky Company in 2017. Dedicated to crafting only the finest single malts out of his local Waikato ingredients, Matt and the team pride themselves in creating innovative and creative whiskies, which are a reflection of the culture and climate of Aotearoa New Zealand. He is bringing down some very special expressions for this tasting, including a world first Totara cask matured whisky, using a cask created from windfall by their own Cooper, Mike Tawse. Saturday 3:30pm

      $60.00 + $3.30 fee

    7. Tasting Session #11: Wm. Cadenhead Ltd (Saturday 3.30pm) ticket

      Jenna McIntosh comes to us from Scotland’s oldest independent bottler, Wm. Cadenhead Ltd, who were founded over 180 years ago in 1842. With roots going back to the early days of the commercial availability of single malts, Cadenhead have a unique history and a selection of old casks, alongside a newly developed cask finishing program. Jenna is joining us for her second DramFest, and brings with her some very exciting cask samples from the depths of their Campbeltown warehouses. Saturday 3:30pm

      Jenna McIntosh comes to us from Scotland’s oldest independent bottler, Wm. Cadenhead Ltd, who were founded over 180 years ago in 1842. With roots going back to the early days of the commercial availability of single malts, Cadenhead have a unique history and a selection of old casks, alongside a newly developed cask finishing program. Jenna is joining us for her second DramFest, and brings with her some very exciting cask samples from the depths of their Campbeltown warehouses. Saturday 3:30pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee
      Sold out

    8. Tasting Session #12 - Foursquare Rum Distillery (Saturday 3.30pm) ticket

      Not only is Richard a Master Distiller, he is also the fourth-generation member of the Seale family to work in the family rum business, as was key in founding the now widely renowned Foursquare Distillery in Barbados. As one of the most respected distillers of our time, we look forward to welcoming his wealth of experience to the DramFest Sessions. He’s bringing some very special samples from the distillery for this tasting - an opportunity to gain some real insight into one of the world’s leading rum distillery’s. Saturday 3:30pm

      Not only is Richard a Master Distiller, he is also the fourth-generation member of the Seale family to work in the family rum business, as was key in founding the now widely renowned Foursquare Distillery in Barbados. As one of the most respected distillers of our time, we look forward to welcoming his wealth of experience to the DramFest Sessions. He’s bringing some very special samples from the distillery for this tasting - an opportunity to gain some real insight into one of the world’s leading rum distillery’s. Saturday 3:30pm

      $60.00 + $3.30 fee

    9. A wee dram with… Fiona McFadyen (Saturday 4.00pm) ticket

      Home to the Kilkerran Single Malt, the Glengyle distillery of Campbeltown was re-established in 2004 after its closure in the early 1920’s. Owned by J & A Mitchell of Springbank fame, Glengyle’s production runs for only a limited time each year, keeping this distillery one of Scotland’s best kept secrets. Fiona will be travelling all the way from Campbeltown, showcasing some of the characterful drams made by hand at Glengyle including an exclusive single cask, and a future distillery release. Saturday 4.00pm

      Home to the Kilkerran Single Malt, the Glengyle distillery of Campbeltown was re-established in 2004 after its closure in the early 1920’s. Owned by J & A Mitchell of Springbank fame, Glengyle’s production runs for only a limited time each year, keeping this distillery one of Scotland’s best kept secrets. Fiona will be travelling all the way from Campbeltown, showcasing some of the characterful drams made by hand at Glengyle including an exclusive single cask, and a future distillery release. Saturday 4.00pm

      $30.00 + $1.80 fee
      Sold out

    10. A wee dram with… Matthew Barnsley (Saturday 5.00pm) ticket

      ith over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge to DramFest, including a passion for all things rum! His expertise in the industry has led him to explore the intricacies of the rum category extensively - with this, he will be delving in to the Appleton's brand, highlighting what makes Appleton's so unique, whilst introducing an exciting new release from the ‘Hearts range, and the fascinating story behind the recreation of the Wray and Nephew 17-year-old rum. Saturday 5.00pm

      ith over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge to DramFest, including a passion for all things rum! His expertise in the industry has led him to explore the intricacies of the rum category extensively - with this, he will be delving in to the Appleton's brand, highlighting what makes Appleton's so unique, whilst introducing an exciting new release from the ‘Hearts range, and the fascinating story behind the recreation of the Wray and Nephew 17-year-old rum. Saturday 5.00pm

      $35.00 + $2.06 fee

  5. Sunday Tasting Sessions

    1. Tasting Session #13 - Foursquare at the Forefront (Sunday 1.45pm) ticket

      Dave Broom talks to Master Distiller and Owner of Foursquare Distillery, Richard Seale about all things Rum. Foursquare has been iconic in the development of the category, and Richard has gained worldwide acclaim from not just Rum drinkers, but those in the whisky industry who consider him to be one of “the greatest distillers in the world”. They’ll take you through a selection of very special cask samples all the way from Barbados, discussing everything from molasses, stills, blending, casks and the rum industry in the region. This is a very exclusive, not to be missed tasting! Sunday 1.45pm

      Dave Broom talks to Master Distiller and Owner of Foursquare Distillery, Richard Seale about all things Rum. Foursquare has been iconic in the development of the category, and Richard has gained worldwide acclaim from not just Rum drinkers, but those in the whisky industry who consider him to be one of “the greatest distillers in the world”. They’ll take you through a selection of very special cask samples all the way from Barbados, discussing everything from molasses, stills, blending, casks and the rum industry in the region. This is a very exclusive, not to be missed tasting! Sunday 1.45pm

      $80.00 + $4.30 fee

    2. Tasting Session #14 - The GlenAllachie Distillery (Sunday 2.00pm) ticket

      The revival of the GlenAllachie distillery by legendary master blender Billy Walker in 2017 has seen this little-known distillery launched into widespread acclaim and popularity. Since joining The GlenAllachie Distillery in 2019, Ronan has played a pivotal role in the distillery's continued success. As Assistant Blender, under the tutelage of world-renowned Master Blender Billy Walker, he oversees the creation of GlenAllachie's distinctive single malt whiskies while also driving the brand's growth and market presence. We are delighted to have him host a line-up of sensational cask samples all the way from Scotland. Sunday 2.00pm

      The revival of the GlenAllachie distillery by legendary master blender Billy Walker in 2017 has seen this little-known distillery launched into widespread acclaim and popularity. Since joining The GlenAllachie Distillery in 2019, Ronan has played a pivotal role in the distillery's continued success. As Assistant Blender, under the tutelage of world-renowned Master Blender Billy Walker, he oversees the creation of GlenAllachie's distinctive single malt whiskies while also driving the brand's growth and market presence. We are delighted to have him host a line-up of sensational cask samples all the way from Scotland. Sunday 2.00pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee

    3. Tasting Session #15 - Ardnamurchan Distillery (Sunday 2.00pm) ticket

      The Hon. Alex Bruce, Master of the Quaich, is the managing director of Adelphi, one of Scotland's premier independent bottlers, as well as the Ardnamurchan distillery. Alex is one of the world's most respected whisky personalities and long-time supporter and friend of the New Zealand whisky scene. He will be chatting a bit about the exciting work taking place at the Ardnamurchan distillery and showcasing its exceptional award-winning spirit, which whisky writer Dave Broom has described as "a complex whisky that seems to have come from a different time and yet, being completely contemporary". The line-up consists of some exclusive cask samples from the Ardnamurchan warehouses, which are not to be missed! Sunday 2.00pm

      The Hon. Alex Bruce, Master of the Quaich, is the managing director of Adelphi, one of Scotland's premier independent bottlers, as well as the Ardnamurchan distillery. Alex is one of the world's most respected whisky personalities and long-time supporter and friend of the New Zealand whisky scene. He will be chatting a bit about the exciting work taking place at the Ardnamurchan distillery and showcasing its exceptional award-winning spirit, which whisky writer Dave Broom has described as "a complex whisky that seems to have come from a different time and yet, being completely contemporary". The line-up consists of some exclusive cask samples from the Ardnamurchan warehouses, which are not to be missed! Sunday 2.00pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee
      Sold out

    4. A wee dram with…Jenna McIntosh (Sunday 2.00pm) ticket

      Jenna McIntosh comes to us from Scotland’s oldest independent bottler, Wm. Cadenhead Ltd, who were founded over 180 years ago in 1842. With roots going back to the early days of the commercial availability of single malts, Cadenhead have a unique history and a selection of old casks, alongside a newly developed cask finishing program. Jenna is joining us for her second DramFest, and brings with her some very exciting cask samples from the depths of their Campbeltown warehouses. Sunday 2.00pm

      Jenna McIntosh comes to us from Scotland’s oldest independent bottler, Wm. Cadenhead Ltd, who were founded over 180 years ago in 1842. With roots going back to the early days of the commercial availability of single malts, Cadenhead have a unique history and a selection of old casks, alongside a newly developed cask finishing program. Jenna is joining us for her second DramFest, and brings with her some very exciting cask samples from the depths of their Campbeltown warehouses. Sunday 2.00pm

      $35.00 + $2.06 fee
      Sold out

    5. A wee dram with…Patrick Newton (Sunday 3.00pm) ticket

      Transitioning from a 20 year career in winemaking to the art of distillation, Patrick has made all of the award winning whisky as the Head Distiller at Waiheke Whisky. He will present the single cask trophy-winner Waiheke Whisky Bog Monster, a peated whisky distilled in 2015 on the small stills we built ourselves. He will also present the 'next' Bog Monster - a 14-month-old barrel sample, created with help from Master Distiller Alan Winchester, from our new stills made by Speyside Copperworks in Scotland. This is a rare chance to try a new liquid and hear Pat talk about the plans for Waiheke Whisky into the future, and why New Zealand Peat is key to our story and the story for NZ Whisky to take to the world stage. Sunday 3.00pm

      Transitioning from a 20 year career in winemaking to the art of distillation, Patrick has made all of the award winning whisky as the Head Distiller at Waiheke Whisky. He will present the single cask trophy-winner Waiheke Whisky Bog Monster, a peated whisky distilled in 2015 on the small stills we built ourselves. He will also present the 'next' Bog Monster - a 14-month-old barrel sample, created with help from Master Distiller Alan Winchester, from our new stills made by Speyside Copperworks in Scotland. This is a rare chance to try a new liquid and hear Pat talk about the plans for Waiheke Whisky into the future, and why New Zealand Peat is key to our story and the story for NZ Whisky to take to the world stage. Sunday 3.00pm

      $30.00 + $1.80 fee

    6. Tasting Session #16 - The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (Sunday 3.30pm) ticket

      The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is Scotland’s leading members-only whisky club, founded in 1983 in Edinburgh. As an independent bottler, they offer one of the broadest range of distilleries, from the oldest names in Scotch to some of the newest. This tasting see’s a familiar face to Whisky Galore, Alec Hay, who has temporarily returned to the whisky fold to present a stunning line up of drams from the SMWS shelves for DramFest weekend - it includes a very special old peated Highland malt - a tasting not to be missed! Sunday 3.30pm

      The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is Scotland’s leading members-only whisky club, founded in 1983 in Edinburgh. As an independent bottler, they offer one of the broadest range of distilleries, from the oldest names in Scotch to some of the newest. This tasting see’s a familiar face to Whisky Galore, Alec Hay, who has temporarily returned to the whisky fold to present a stunning line up of drams from the SMWS shelves for DramFest weekend - it includes a very special old peated Highland malt - a tasting not to be missed! Sunday 3.30pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee

    7. Tasting Session #17 - Kilchoman Distillery (Sunday 3.30pm) ticket

      The Kilchoman distillery was founded by Anthony and Kathy Wills on the Isle of Islay in 2005. Now, in its 15th year of production, Kilchoman is considered one of the stalwarts of the Scotch whisky industry and their 100% Islay is a reality. A familiar face for many, Anthony has been attending DramFest since its inception in 2007 and we always welcome his huge wealth of knowledge to the festival. He has drawn three cask samples from the warehouses on Islay to share with you for this very special session. Please note: this tasting will feature the same line up of drams as the Kilchoman tasting #6 on Friday. Sunday 3.30pm

      The Kilchoman distillery was founded by Anthony and Kathy Wills on the Isle of Islay in 2005. Now, in its 15th year of production, Kilchoman is considered one of the stalwarts of the Scotch whisky industry and their 100% Islay is a reality. A familiar face for many, Anthony has been attending DramFest since its inception in 2007 and we always welcome his huge wealth of knowledge to the festival. He has drawn three cask samples from the warehouses on Islay to share with you for this very special session. Please note: this tasting will feature the same line up of drams as the Kilchoman tasting #6 on Friday. Sunday 3.30pm

      $75.00 + $4.06 fee

    8. Tasting Session #18 - Springbank Distillery (Sunday 3.30pm) ticket

      Easily one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries, Springbank is resolutely ‘old-school’ - not just in the style of its whisky, but the very way in which it is made and produced, on the far-flung tip of the Kintyre Peninsula on Scotland’s West coast. Returning for his 6th DramFest, David will be showcasing 2 different varieties of the iconic Springbank style, which include upcoming releases that have not yet to hit our shores. After 10 years at the distillery, we are always delighted to have David’s knowledge and experience at the Fest - a tasting not to be missed! Sunday 3.30pm

      Easily one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries, Springbank is resolutely ‘old-school’ - not just in the style of its whisky, but the very way in which it is made and produced, on the far-flung tip of the Kintyre Peninsula on Scotland’s West coast. Returning for his 6th DramFest, David will be showcasing 2 different varieties of the iconic Springbank style, which include upcoming releases that have not yet to hit our shores. After 10 years at the distillery, we are always delighted to have David’s knowledge and experience at the Fest - a tasting not to be missed! Sunday 3.30pm

      $80.00 + $4.30 fee
      Sold out

    9. A wee dram with…Ross Blainey (Sunday 4.00pm) ticket

      Joining us for his 3rd DramFest Ross Blainey, Ambassador for Glenfiddich will be sharing some very special drams from this iconic William Grant & Sons distillery. Ross, originally from Scotland, has pulled out the stops once again for this spectacular mini session, selecting the Glenfiddich 23 years old Grand Cru and Glenfiddich 26 years old Grande Couronne for the line-up - what an absolute treat! Sunday 4.00pm

      Joining us for his 3rd DramFest Ross Blainey, Ambassador for Glenfiddich will be sharing some very special drams from this iconic William Grant & Sons distillery. Ross, originally from Scotland, has pulled out the stops once again for this spectacular mini session, selecting the Glenfiddich 23 years old Grand Cru and Glenfiddich 26 years old Grande Couronne for the line-up - what an absolute treat! Sunday 4.00pm

      $55.00 + $3.06 fee

    10. A wee dram with…Ian Renwick (Sunday 5.00pm) ticket

      Hailing from the small village of Crieff lies Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery that’s still in operation, with records dating all the way back to 1756. Ian has been involved in all aspects of the Distillery’s production since he began at the The Glenturret nearly 20 years ago. Now in his role as Distillery Director he oversees the creation of New Make Spirit through to warehousing and bottling. He will be bringing along some exclusive cask samples from the distillery to showcase at this tasting - an opportunity to gain some real insight into this iconic Highland Distillery. Sunday 5.00pm

      Hailing from the small village of Crieff lies Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery that’s still in operation, with records dating all the way back to 1756. Ian has been involved in all aspects of the Distillery’s production since he began at the The Glenturret nearly 20 years ago. Now in his role as Distillery Director he oversees the creation of New Make Spirit through to warehousing and bottling. He will be bringing along some exclusive cask samples from the distillery to showcase at this tasting - an opportunity to gain some real insight into this iconic Highland Distillery. Sunday 5.00pm

      $35.00 + $2.06 fee

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Whisky Galore's DramFest 2025
Fri, 28 Feb, 4pm - 2 Mar, 6pm NZDT
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