The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has announced details of a special Burns Night event to be held in the ancient church of St Etheldreda’s in London.

Following a sell-out event last year, the international whisky club will raise a dram to Scotland’s national poet later this month with an evening of Scottish tradition in the medieval crypt of St Etheldreda’s in Farringdon – a five-minute walk from 19 Greville Street, the SMWS’s London venue.

As SMWS events are typically reserved for members only, this promises to be a rare opportunity for whisky fans in London to experience the Society’s ‘flavour-first’ approach to whisky while paying tribute to the Bard.

The festivities will begin with the sound of bagpipes, followed by a three-course Burns Night supper accompanied by six hand-picked whiskies, each selected to complement and elevate the flavours of the menu. Live entertainment will be provided by Tim Hain and Alan Glenive, who will perform bluesy, whisky-inspired music throughout the evening.

Commenting on the announcement, Simone Malavolta, Manager of the Society’s London venue, said: “This year we are celebrating Rabbie Burns and his works in style, with a night of bagpipes, traditional Scottish customs and indulgent dining, all accompanied by six exceptional Society whiskies.”

He added: “Last year we hosted our Burns Night at Greville Street and it sold out almost instantly, so this year we needed a little more space. The Crypt of St Etheldreda’s is the perfect setting for a celebration of such an important part of Scotland’s history. With its dramatic stone arches and atmospheric lighting, guests will feel transported to another era entirely. Book your tickets now to avoid missing out.”

To mark the occasion, the SMWS is also releasing a special edition bottling in honour of Burns Night: Cask 39.318 – Sing Thy Name! (60.4% ABV), part of the Society’s Winter Series. This 13 Year Old whisky from a first-fill Bourbon barrel offers a fresh nose of cut grass and vanilla custard, followed by lemon curd, cardamom and sweet nutmeg on the palate. RRP: £73.50.

The Raise a Dram for Rabbie event will take place on Friday January 23rd from 7pm at The Crypt of St Etheldreda’s, 14 Ely Place, London EC1N 6RY.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: smws.com