The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

What an amazaing treat. One of my oldest and closest friends treated me to a visit to the Scottish Malt Whisky Society's 'Vaults'. The experience was everyting I could have dreamed of.

From the old-club feel of the decor to the raging fires in the wall, from the attentive staff through to the thick and heavy bibles with their amazing descriptions of the whiskies I was in absolute heaven.

Hungry after the walk from Waverley station, we ordered the haggis straight off. Afterall, we were in Scotland, drinking scottish whisky, how could we not order that? It was perfect. A lot of haggis are very heavy on the pepper and spice, to the extent that the palette can be overwhelmed. Not this haggis. It was perfect in every way. There was indeed a hint of pepper and spice as their should be, but there was also a lot of other flavours. The mash was fabulous. I'm a bit of a mash fan, and this was some of the best mash I've ever had the pleasure to masticate.

I'm also a fussy bugger, not liking swede. I was not to be daunted however, and tucked in; finding to my great surprise that swede was the perfect accompiement for haggis and mash. The icing on the cherry was the whisky sauce. All-in-all a perfect start to the visint.

From there we moved onto tasting whiskies. 9 in all chosen from two thick bibles and a slim journal on the table. We took our time as gentlemen should and actually went as far as to make proper notes. Surprisingly my friend - who was not a whisky fan previously - and I both settled on the same whisky as a firm favourite, using that one to then score the others by.

Warmed by the good food and even better whisky, we said a sad farewell. With him being a member however, this is going to be a must-visit venue every time I have the pleasure of returning to Scotland.

If you are even remotely interested in scotch whiskey this place is a must

Posh without being stuffy. My eyes were wide with the array of whisky and the pours were generous. I would love to go back.

Amazing old building with a great atmosphere and superb whiskey, staff very knowledgeable

A joy to behold - the early Georgian dining Room. Well trained staff and great food.

Best place in Edinburgh for a nip, staff are very friendly and knowledgeable about their trade.

Great selection of unique Malt Whisky. Great menu

Quiet, reserved. Incredible array of whiskey with very knowledgeable staff. A great place for a catch-up with discerning friends or more interesting business meetings

Lovely venue, cozy open fire, great whisky and food. Try one of the events for a great deal. I think you must be (or be with) a member for this venue