If you’re looking for a whisky tasting in Exeter, you’re not alone!
So, what’s the story we hear most about someone’s first whisky? Usually, it’s a friend pouring a big glass of Laphroaig 10 and laughing as the other person’s face twists in surprise.
After that, most people come to the same conclusion: “Whisky’s not for me.” That’s where whisky tastings come in. In Exeter, they’re quickly becoming one of the best ways to spend an evening... at least, we think so.
What actually is a whisky tasting?
Silly question?
Nah. Let's get into it. It’s a group of people, a few different whiskies, and some time to slow down and really notice what’s in your glass.
It’s not about being fancy. No one expects you to find notes of leather or tobacco. The best tastings aren’t about having the right answers. They’re about noticing things you’d probably miss if you were just having a quick drink at the bar.
So, why whisky tastings are catching on in Devon?
We all know that there’s been a shift in how people drink. The 90s alchopop slurping marathon is a thing of the past. It’s less about how much you drink and more about the experience.
People want things to do, not just places to go and we think whisky tastings fit that perfectly. In Exeter, with its mix of independent venues and the new Whisky Shop on Cathedral Green, more people are starting to enjoy whisky.
What actually happens on the night?
If you’ve never been to a whisky tasting, it’s probably more relaxed than you expect.
Typically, you’ll try around 4–6 whiskies, each slightly different. We would say 5 as palate fatigue can kick in. Plus, if you get too pi***d, you're no longer tasting whisky, are you?
Some tastings are done blind, which makes things more interesting. No labels. No price tags. No preconceived ideas. It’s one of the quickest ways to see that what you think you like and what you actually enjoy aren’t always the same.
“I don’t know anything about whisky…”
Good. That’s exactly where you want to start.
Whisky tastings aren’t just for whisky connoisseurs (haaaaate that term), they’re for anyone who’s curious. You don’t need to know regions, distilleries, or production methods. You don’t need a “refined palate”. You just need to be open to trying something new. In fact, beginners often enjoy tastings even more than experienced drinkers, because everything is new to them.
Where to find a whisky tasting in Exeter?
Exeter’s whisky scene is growing, but proper tastings are still a bit rare.
You can find good whisky at pubs like the Fat Pig or Scapegoat, and The Whisky Shop often has bottles open to sample. But a guided tasting, where you can really explore and compare different drams, is still a bit special.
That’s exactly why they’re worth looking for.
Devon Dram Club: A different kind of whisky tasting
If you want to try a whisky tasting in Exeter, the Devon Dram Club is based on a simple idea...
Whisky is better when it’s shared.
You’ll taste a range of whiskies, always blind, and talk about them together as a group. There’s no pressure and no right answers! It's all about finding out what you enjoy.
There’s something special about a whisky tasting that you can’t really find anywhere else. It’s slower, more thoughtful, and more social. You notice things you might usually miss. You try whiskies you wouldn’t normally order. And you leave with a much better sense of what you actually like.
And more often than not, you realise that whisky was probably for you all along.
Looking for a whisky tasting in Exeter?
If you want to try something different, join the Devon Dram Club for a relaxed whisky tasting in Exeter.
Good whisky. Good people. No pressure.