Cayman will host its inaugural whisky festival from 6-9 Nov. The event is set to feature rare spirit tastings, live music and a boat party finale, all organised by Camana Bay's whisky specialists, Cask.
Matt MacPherson, co-owner of Cask, said the event represents a milestone for the territory and regional whisky enthusiasts.
"We are incredibly proud to be launching the very first Cayman Whisky Festival this November, a milestone moment for the islands and for whisky lovers across the region," MacPherson said.
The four-day celebration begins Thursday, 6 Nov., with a whisky session featuring professional Scottish folk musician Davy Holt, combining traditional tunes and storytelling alongside spirit tastings for CI$75.
The premium event on Friday, 7 Nov., offers an exclusive tasting of rare Diageo archive whiskies in Cask's Woodlands tasting suite, featuring bottles including a 37-year-old Port Ellen and 29-year-old Lagavulin Feis Ile. The experience, limited to 12 participants, costs CI$500 per ticket.
"We've partnered with some of the world's most respected whisky brands, alongside local distributors. We are flying in a professional musician from Scotland to create an atmosphere that blends international excellence with Cayman's own unique energy," MacPherson said.
The main festival on Saturday, 8 Nov., runs from 5-8 p.m., providing three hours of unlimited tastings from curated collections ranging from classics to rare gems. Tickets cost CI$150 and include live music continuing beyond the tasting period.
The weekend concludes on Sunday, 9 Nov., with a Dewar's-sponsored boat party aboard a catamaran, featuring DJ Urusai and live performances from Holt, combining whisky with Caribbean ambience for CI$125.
MacPherson emphasised the festival's accessibility across experience levels.
"Whisky is such a diverse and fascinating category — it can sometimes feel overwhelming, but our goal is to make it accessible, engaging and fun. Whether you're just beginning your whisky journey or you're a dedicated connoisseur, this event will be an unforgettable opportunity to discover new favourites," he said.
The celebration includes cocktail specials, storytelling sessions and educational components designed to demystify whisky appreciation whilst maintaining entertainment value.
Cask, established in August 2024, created the festival to introduce systematic whisky education and appreciation to Cayman's spirits scene.
A VIP weekend pass providing access to all events costs CI$750, offering savings for participants wanting the complete festival experience.
"Our guests will be invited to immerse themselves in a four-day celebration of whisky that goes far beyond the glass," he noted, adding the festival aims to "celebrate one of the world's greatest spirits in a way that has never been done here before."
Guests will be invited to immerse themselves in a four-day celebration of whisky that goes far beyond the glass.