March 27

International Whiskey Day

A food observance on March 27 celebrating whiskey and whisky while honoring the life and work of British whisky writer Michael Jackson on his birthday.

Yearly Date

March 27

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Raise a glass and toast to International Whiskey Day on March 27! This holiday has been around for many years, celebrating the spirit that has been enjoyed and revered since the 15th century. The origins of whiskey have been traced back to Scotland and Ireland, but now it is enjoyed all over the world. With its smooth taste, delightful aroma, and variety of flavors, it's no wonder why whiskey is such an iconic drink. So gather your friends and family together and celebrate International Whiskey Day with some of your favorite tipples!

History of International Whiskey Day

International Whiskey Day honors and celebrates one of the most popular and beloved alcoholic beverages in the world. The origins of this holiday can be traced back to the early 2000s, when a Scottish journalist and whiskey enthusiast named Blair Bowman came up with the idea to create a special day to celebrate the iconic drink. Bowman, who was then a student at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, was studying for his master's degree in journalism and had developed a keen interest in whiskey. As he learned more about the history, production, and culture surrounding the drink, he became increasingly passionate about sharing his knowledge and love of whiskey with others. In 2008, Bowman created International Whiskey Day as a way to celebrate the drink and encourage people around the world to try different types and brands of whiskey. He chose March 27th as the date for the holiday to honor the birthday of one of Scotland's most famous whiskey makers, Alexander Walker, who was born on that day in 1805. Since then, International Whiskey Day has grown in popularity and is celebrated by whiskey enthusiasts and aficionados around the world. People gather at bars, distilleries, and private homes to sample different types of whiskey, learn about the history and production of the drink, and celebrate the unique flavors and aromas that make whiskey such a beloved beverage. Today, International Whiskey Day is recognized as an official holiday in many countries, and whiskey enthusiasts around the world continue to celebrate and enjoy this iconic drink on March 27th every year. Whether you prefer Scotch, Irish, American, or Japanese whiskey, International Whiskey Day is the perfect time to raise a glass and toast to the history and culture of this beloved beverage.

International Whiskey Day Timeline

1494

Early Whiskey Records

The earliest known record of whisky production in Scotland appears in the Exchequer Rolls for 1494.

1608

Old Bushmills Distillery

The Old Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland, one of the oldest whiskey distilleries in the world, is granted its license.

1780

Jameson Irish Whiskey

John Jameson founds the Jameson Distillery Bow St in Dublin, Ireland, beginning production of the world-famous Jameson Irish Whiskey.

1963

Whiskey Renaissance

The whiskey renaissance begins, with the revival of Irish Whiskey and the increasing popularity of whiskey globally, especially in the US.

2009

International Whiskey Day Origin

International Whiskey Day is initiated in honor of British writer Michael Jackson, aiming to celebrate whiskey and to raise funds for Parkinson's disease, from which Jackson suffered.

How to Celebrate International Whiskey Day

1 Host a whiskey tasting

Gather your friends and family to sample different types of whiskey. Make sure to provide snacks like cheese, dried fruit, and nuts to complement the flavor of the whiskey.

2 Create whiskey cocktails

Get creative and experiment with different whiskey recipes. Try adding spices, fruits, and herbs to enhance the flavor of the whiskey. You can also look up classic whiskey cocktail recipes for inspiration.

3 Visit a whiskey distillery

Take a day trip to a nearby whiskey distillery to learn how whiskey is made. You can also purchase a bottle or two of your favorite brand while you’re there.

4 Watch a whiskey documentary

Spend the evening learning about the history and culture of whiskey by streaming an educational documentary. Educate yourself on everything from the science behind brewing to the personalities involved in crafting exceptional whiskies.

5 Attend a whiskey bar

Check out your local Whiskey Bar for an evening of tasting different types of whiskeys, speaking with experts, and meeting other enthusiasts. This can be a great way to explore international whiskeys as well as regional specialties.

Why We Love International Whiskey Day

Whiskey has unique flavors

No two whiskeys are the same, and each one offers a unique flavor profile that's unlike any other. From the sweet notes of a Scotch to the smoky undertones of an Irish whiskey, there is something for everyone when it comes to exploring the world of whiskey.

It pairs well with food

Versatile and flavorful, whiskey makes for an excellent pairing with all kinds of different dishes. From seafood to steak or even just a light snack, you can find the perfect type of whiskey to bring out the best in your meal!

Whiskey is great for special occasions

From birthdays to anniversaries or just as an evening treat, whiskey is always a welcome addition to any celebration. Whether gifted or shared at the table, some quality whiskey is sure to make your gathering even more special!