Whisky lovers, prepare your palates—the much-anticipated Whisky Show is making its grand return in 2025. As Australia’s premier whisky-tasting event, this immersive celebration of the world’s finest spirits is set to captivate enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and curious newcomers alike. With a lineup spanning over 100 whiskies from across the globe, this year’s edition promises to be bigger and bolder, bringing new experiences and exclusive tastings to whisky lovers nationwide.
The Whisky Show is a paradise for those who appreciate the art of distillation, showcasing an exceptional selection of single malts from Scotland, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia, alongside premium American whiskeys and boutique distillery offerings. Internationally acclaimed master distillers and brand ambassadors will be present, offering insights into the craft behind each dram. Attendees can expect a carefully curated selection of both classic and innovative whiskies, with the opportunity to sample rare and limited releases that are often unavailable in retail stores.
Exclusive Experiences Await
Across ten shows in 2025, ticket holders will gain access to a host of unique experiences designed to enhance their whisky journey. A standout highlight is the Rare Whisky Bar, offering the chance to purchase limited-edition and highly sought-after drams by the pour.
The Pop-Up Bottle Shop allows attendees to take home a bottle of their new favorite discovery at exclusive event prices, ensuring the adventure continues long after the show ends.
New for 2025, each ticket now includes a $20 meal voucher, redeemable at a selection of curated food vendors at each venue. With whisky-pairing menus tailored to complement different expressions—such as American barbecue alongside bourbon or artisanal cheeses paired with a peaty Islay malt—this addition elevates the tasting experience, ensuring guests can savor their drams with thoughtfully matched cuisine.
True to its name, The Whisky Show remains uncompromisingly dedicated to whisky. Unlike other spirits festivals, there are no gins, vodkas, or cocktails to distract from the focus on fine whisky.
Upon arrival, attendees receive a Whisky Show-branded tasting glass, theirs to use throughout the event and take home as a keepsake. Over the course of the event, they will have the opportunity to taste an expansive selection of whiskies, from household names to niche independent bottlers, all while engaging with distillers, brand ambassadors, and fellow whisky enthusiasts.
General Shows vs. USA Whisky Shows
Since 2022, The Whisky Show has celebrated Australia’s love affair with American whiskey through dedicated USA Whisky Shows. These specialized events, which began in Sydney before expanding to Melbourne in 2024, spotlight bourbons, ryes, and craft whiskeys from across the United States. In 2025, the USA Whisky Show will make its debut in Brisbane, further broadening the event’s reach and bringing American whiskey culture to a new audience.
Both the general Whisky Shows and the USA Whisky Shows offer unparalleled tasting experiences, but the latter focuses specifically on the rich tradition and diversity of American whiskey, featuring single barrels, small-batch releases, and rare imports. For those eager to explore the nuanced world of bourbon and rye, these shows provide an extraordinary opportunity to sample expressions that may never make it to Australian bottle shops.
Mark Your Calendar: 2025 Show Dates and Locations
The Whisky Show will tour major Australian cities in 2025, with more events to be announced:
26 April – Brisbane (The American Whiskey Show, Stamford Plaza Hotel)
3 May – Sydney (The Whisky Show, Overseas Passenger Terminal)
31 May – Melbourne (Feis Ile Islay Festival, Fitzroy Town Hall)
14 June – Perth (The Whisky Show, Mercure Hotel)
5 July – Melbourne (The Whisky Show, Pullman Hotel Albert Park)
26 July – Canberra (The Whisky Show, Fitters Workshop)
9 August – Brisbane (The Whisky Show, Stamford Plaza Hotel)
23 August – Sydney (The American Whisky Show, Overseas Passenger Terminal)
13 September – Adelaide (The Whisky Show, Stamford Plaza Hotel)
18 October – Melbourne (The American Whisky Show, Fitzroy Town Hall)
Tickets and Availability
Limited tickets are now on sale, with prices set at $145 per person for general Whisky Shows and $125 for USA Whisky Shows. Each ticket includes free tastings, a branded whisky glass, a $20 meal voucher, and access to exclusive show-only whisky deals.
Secure your tickets now and be part of Australia’s leading whisky celebration!
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Words by AW.
Photo courtesy of The Whisky List.