The preview of our #Dram26 programme will be unveiled on 18th February when the contenders for the coveted Best New Event award at the 2026 Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival will be announced
Each year, our members and partners vie for the prestigious ‘Best New Event’ title, and the Spirit of Speyside team will carefully shortlist six exceptional events that embody the spirit of the festival.
The challenging yet enviable task of selecting the winner falls to this year’s judge, Rosalind Erskine.
Rosalind is the Food and Drink Editor at The Scotsman and host of the multi-award-winning podcast Scran. Through her work she has developed a real passion for whisky, writing regularly for The Scotsman and the paper’s Whisky Club newsletter.
She’s also a familiar face at the Festival, having joined us with friends and family every year since 2019
Rosalind will have the extremely difficult task of attending each of the shortlisted events, experiencing the craftsmanship, storytelling, and unique appeal they bring to the festival. While many whisky enthusiasts may dream of stepping into his shoes, selecting just one winner will be no easy feat!
The countdown to the #Dram26 programme preview on Wednesday 18 February at 12 noon is officially on. Build your wish list, map your travel and prepare to secure your place at the festival—a must-visit for any whisky lover in 2026.
