Penang, July 2025 – Whisky & Drams Fest 2025 just wrapped up, proving that Penang is fast becoming known for more than just amazing food. It's now a cool spot for lifestyle and spirits culture, too! This year's festival, organized by My Whisky Craft & Foodicious, brought together rare whiskies, tasty snacks, and smooth jazz in a chill, stylish setting. It was perfect for both whisky experts and anyone just curious to try something new.
Held at the SPICE Convention Centre in Penang, the place was buzzing with energy from the moment Gary Gideon & Friends started playing. Live music set the mood as hundreds of guests checked out booths featuring over 30 whiskies from Japan, Scotland, Taiwan, and even Malaysia. Many of these whiskies were shown to the public for the very first first time in the country!
New Stars: Kaichi, Sorachi, and Dré Coklat's Tuak
This year, some big hits included the Malaysian debut of Kaichi and Sorachi whiskies. These were previously only available on All Nippon Airways (ANA) flights! JFC Malaysia brought them in, and many were surprised by how smooth and easy to drink they were—they quickly became crowd favourites.
Just as interesting was Tuak by Dré Coklat, one of the non-whisky drink at the festival. Dré Coklat is usually known for premium local chocolates, but he introduced his handcrafted rice wine, which was rich, fragrant, and deeply rooted in Sarawak tradition. It offered a refreshing local twist and everyone loved its unique taste.
"We didn't want just another whisky tasting—we wanted people to discover new things. From rare Japanese labels to homegrown Tuak, this event was all about opening minds and palates," said by the organizer of Whisky & Drams Fest 2025.
Taste the World, One Sip at a Time
The festival had a great mix of popular names and hidden gems:
Togouchi & Kurayoshi (Japan) – Smooth, gentle, great for beginners.
BenRiach & Glendronach (Scotland) – Bold, rich flavours, often with sherry notes.
Torabhaig & Stalla Dhu – Smoky (peated) options for those feeling adventurous.
Glen Scotia & GlenAllachie – Becoming very popular among collectors.
The evening also featured a sold-out special class led by Roxxanne Rock, a Whisky Ambassador for Aberfeldy. Guests tasted Aberfeldy 12 & 16, learned cool tasting tricks, and heard stories about how the whiskies were made. It was a relaxed, lounge-style session that was both informative and, yes, a lot of fun!
More Than Just Drinks – The Food Was a Hit Too!
Food vendors were on hand with specially picked menus to go perfectly with the whiskies:
1.618 Roastery – Grilled Lamb Tacos
Northern – Smoked Duck with Cucumber Salad
My Dreamcheese – Artisan cheese boards
Many vendors sold out early, proving once again that great drinks call for great food—and Penang's food scene definitely delivered!
A Signature Night Noon for Penang’s Lifestyle
With its fancy setting, carefully chosen selection, and strong presence from Southeast Asian brands, Whisky & Drams Fest 2025 wasn't just a good time. It showed how Penang can lead the way in creating unique, high-quality events that blend global brands with local flavour. It seems the unexpected hype of the noon event truly stole the show!
** Actual images will be updated
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