The Whisky Live Festival in Sandton, sponsored by Valprè, will celebrate its 13th anniversary this November. Here are five reasons not to miss this event:

1. Because it’s the biggest whisky festival in the world
Last year, the festival was said to be the largest whisky event of its kind, both in South Africa and globally.

2. Try a range of whiskies from 38 different exhibitors
At this year’s event, festival goers can look forward to sampling some of the finest local and international whiskies all under one roof. Some of the whisky offerings will include Johnnie Walker, Lagavulin, Glenfiddich, Jack Daniel’s and Glenmorangie.

A whisky and some almonds.

3. Meet the masters
There will be plenty of opportunities to meet masters of the industry and learn how to get the most out of every dram at the Whisky Live Showroom.

4. Learn from the best
Take your seat at one of the Whisky Workshops. These informative, one-hour tutorials will be led by experts who will explain complicated whisky jargon in simple, everyday language. The workshops will be an informal, interactive and fun way to taste and learn about different whiskies.

5. Meet fellow fans
A relaxing lounge will offer boutique-style tastings where guests can socialise with fellow whisky lovers. Last year, the festivities attracted close to 12 000 avid whisky fans as well as newcomers wanting to learn more.

People socialising over a glass of whisky. Photo courtesy of the event organisers.

The details
The annual Whisky Live Festival will be held at the Sandton Convention Centre from 11 to 13 November 2015. Tickets will be on sale from 16 October 2015. General access tickets are R225 online and R250 at the door and include entry into the tasting hall, 15 whisky tasting vouchers, a whisky-tasting glass, a copy of the SA Whisky Handbook 2016, and a bottle of Valprè water. The designated-driver tickets include entry into the tasting hall and a bottle of Valprè water for R150. Visit the Whisky Live Festival website for more information or email with any queries.

Brought to you by Valprè, sponsors of the Whisky Live Festival.

Want to learn more about whisky? Read our guide to the science of adding a drop of water to a dram, here.

Tha Balvenie – Whisky Live Showroom. Photo courtesy of the event organisers.