The third edition of Whisky Live Beirut kicked off on Thursday 18 October at Seaside Pavilion. Bringing over 60 of the finest international whisky brands to the capital, the three-day event was inaugurated in the presence of Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism Avedis Guidanian, presidents of associations and syndicates, trade representatives, international experts and the media.

“This is a truly unique event for whisky lovers and is another opportunity for us to highlight Beirut as a capital of taste in the Middle East,” said Joumana Dammous-Salame, managing director of Hospitality Services, the event organizer.

The event, which is forecast to attract more than 3,000 visitors, will host 30 masterclasses with international brand ambassadors and whisky experts. Small group collectors’ masterclasses with whisky experts Rob Allanson, global ambassador for Whisky Live, and director of La Maison du Whisky in Paris, Jean-Marc Bellier, will highlight some of the rarest and most valuable whiskies around, including Karuizawa 34 years (1980 cask 647) and Hanyu 15 years Final Vintage.

Commercial masterclasses with international brand ambassadors from Europe and beyond are open to all ticket holders. Guests include Hamish Torrie, Glenmorangie global brand ambassador, Georgie Bell, John Dewar & Sons global malts ambassador, Xavier Leveque, brand ambassador for Michter’s Distillery, and João Vicente, European spirits brand ambassador for Gonzalez Byass.

A huge variety of single malts, bourbons, Scotch and Irish whiskies, as well as premium gin, rum and vodka brands, will be available for visitors to sample in the main tasting area. There will also be a bar area serving innovative whisky cocktails.

“This year, the selection at Whisky Live Beirut is incredible. Guest will be able to explore some great whiskies like Karuizawa, Lagavulin and Glenfarclas,” said Allanson.