Whisky Master Classes at Darling Whisky Weekend 2026

 Experience Transformation in a Glass—Metanoia Masterclass Join us for an inspiring evening on Friday, 20 March 2026,  Step into the world of bold ideas and boundary-pushing spirits with Kenny Scheepers, founder and distiller of Metanoia Distillery, in a rare masterclass hosted at the Darling Whisky Festival.
Nestled just outside Barrydale, Metanoia is quietly reshaping South Africa's whisky landscape. This exclusive tasting offers a glimpse into the distillery's creative process and its collaborative spirit—including a special partnership with Andy Watts of The Watts Whisky Company.

Guests will enjoy a guided tasting of:
• The vibrant New Make spirit that forms the backbone of Metanoia's flagship single malt
• Two expressive single-cask releases, each revealing a unique maturation journey
• A small-batch single malt that balances finesse and character
• And South Africa's first-ever single rye whisky—a pioneering release.

This is more than a tasting—it's a celebration of craft, courage, and community. Seats are limited, stories will be shared, and the whiskies will speak for themselves. 

The Art of Whisky and Fire

Kick off your weekend with an unforgettable Friday evening at Living Colour West Coast Smoke House, the venue for our exclusive “Smokehouse Sips” Tasting! Limited to just 50 tickets, this is your chance to join Hector McBeth as he takes you on a journey where flavour meets wood meets smoke. To elevate the experience, we’ll pair these exceptional whiskies with food crafted using smoke and fire for the ultimate sensory adventure!

• Woodford Reserve Bourbon
• Elijah Craig Small Batch
• Tamnavulin Sherry Cask
• Benriach Smoke Season
• Ardbeg An Oa
• Scarabus

Secure your spot now and experience the best of whisky in a vibrant West Coast setting. Don’t miss out—tickets are limited!

🔥 Book now to avoid disappointment!

We’re excited to announce that the historic 1910 Old Forge Darling will be hosting our upcoming Darling Whisky Weekend, featuring an exclusive “Introduction to Whisky” tasting event. Set in this charming and atmospheric venue, guests will have the perfect backdrop to explore the world of whisky in a relaxed and welcoming setting. This master class is limited to just 30 seats, ensuring an intimate experience for all attendees. Stay tuned for more details on our presenter, who will guide you through the fascinating journey of whisky appreciation!

Discover the Legacy of Two Legendary Distilleries

Join us for a special night dedicated to exploring the rich heritage and

exquisite flavours of two of Scotland’s most celebrated

distilleries: Aberlour and The Glenlivet.

Aberlour Distillery

Nestled in the heart of Speyside, Aberlour was founded by James Fleming in

1879. Known for its commitment to craft and quality, Aberlour whiskies are

famed for their deep, rich character and distinctive sherry cask influence.

Each dram tells a story of tradition and expertise passed down through

generations.

The Glenlivet Distillery

As the original Speyside single malt, The Glenlivet has been setting the

standard since 1824. Founded by George Smith, The Glenlivet became the

first legal distillery in the parish of Glenlivet and has been recognised

worldwide for its smooth, fruity style. Its legacy continues to shape the world

of whisky today.

What to Expect:

Tasting Line-Up on the night – you’ll have the unique opportunity to

experience and compare a curated selection of exceptional whiskies:

 Aberlour 12 Year Old

 Aberlour 16 Year Old

 Aberlour 18 Year Old

 The Glenlivet 15 Year Old

 The Glenlivet 18 Year Old

 The Glenlivet 21 Year Old

Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just beginning your journey,

this evening promises delicious discoveries and memorable stories. Expert

hosts from Pernod Ricard will guide you through each expression, sharing

insights into the history and craftsmanship behind every bottle.

Date: 20 March 2026

Time: 18:30

Venue: Darling Brew Tasting Room

Cost: R150

Join us for an unforgettable sensory journey and let the hosts of Pernod

Ricard guide you into the heart of whisky’s remarkable world at Darling

Brewery.

Booking is essential—secure your seat and experience the legacy!