Did you miss it? Whisky lovers near and far came to the Wynn in Las Vegas at the end of April to experience a very grand tasting of brown spirits. I say brown as it’s not just single malt scotch that’s served up with style at the Universal Whisky Experience – it’s also blends, bourbons, Armagnac, Cognac, Tequila, rum, wine and more, along with a tasty dinner buffet. All thanks to founder Mahesh Patel, his team, and the fabulous exhibitors.
We rubbed elbows with the high rollers that had been there for a few days for the grand tasting that culminated on Friday April 26. I’d met these aficionados before, so when we were entering the event I asked them which tables we shouldn’t miss. And that insider intel proved very valuable. I also had a text chain with other pals in the room, to let me know if they found something remarkable. Lastly, the event was more intimate this year with less booths, and I still couldn’t make it to every table. There were more unique, rare and aged bottles that I probably missed, though we were the last to leave! This is what we were thrilled to have the opportunity to taste:
Glenfarclas 50 YO; from Gordon & Macphail, a premier bottler that never fails to impress, we sampled a 2005 Macallan, 25 YO Mortlach, 2007 Glenrothes, 30 YO Macphail’s, and a 1991 Glen Scotia; an Armagnac distilled in 1973 from Bhakta Spirits; Bruichladdich 30 YO; Bowmore 25 YO; Bardstown Bourbon Cascadia Garryana Oak barrel finish; Benromach 40 YO; 12 to 38 YO Dewars; Johnnie Walker Black Cask and 15 YO Pure Malt; Booker’s (Jim Beam) The Reserves; Fettercairn 24 YO; 22 YO Blade and Bow bourbon; 30 YO Glenfarclas; Glen Scotia 25 YO, 48 YO and the Victoriana; Remy Martin XO.
Social Media
How was the Universal Whisky Experience? Check out the photos and you tell me! I’ve lost track of all of the amazing pours we shared with so many friends! Shout outs to: @GlenfarclasDistillery @GordonAndMacphail @BhaktaSpirits @Bruichladdich @Bowmore @BardstownBourbonCo @Benromach @Dewars @JohnnieWalker #Octomore #Bookers @FettercairnWhisky @GlenScotiaMalts @RemyMartin All of exhibitors listed are here:
From the Website Spirits.
Founded in 2010 by Mahesh Patel, a visionary and world renowned collector, he embarked on a mission to elevate the whisky & Spirits tasting experiences. Our journey began with a simple yet compelling idea: to create an unparalleled platform where whisky lovers can explore the most exquisite and rare spirits from around the globe.
At the heart of the Universal Whisky Experience is a deep-rooted passion for the rich heritage, intricate craftsmanship, and the art of distilling and blending. We believe in bringing to life the stories behind each bottle, from the legendary distilleries to the master distillers shaping the future of whisky.
Our signature event, The ULTIMATE Whisky and Spirits Experience, held annually at Wynn resorts, showcases the world’s most prestigious whisky & spirit brands, offering our attendees an exclusive opportunity to savor rare and unique expressions, engage in masterclasses, and connect with fellow aficionados and industry experts in an elegant setting.
Beyond the tastings, our commitment extends to providing insightful education and immersive experiences that deepen the appreciation and understanding of Liquid Gold. From distillery tours to personalized tasting sessions, our events are designed to enchant both the curious newcomer and the seasoned collector.
As we continue to grow and evolve, Universal Whisky Experience remains dedicated to fostering a global community, marked by shared experiences and a mutual appreciation for the finest spirits.
Join us as we journey through the world of fine spirits, one glass at a time.
Welcome to the family. Welcome to the Universal Whisky Experience.
Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Proof Awards since 2022 (submit via https://proofawards.com) Cellarmasters, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. Follow on Instagram and Facebook.
