Edinburgh whisky bars unite to promote tourism

Ten of the top whisky bars in Edinburgh have united in an initiative to promote the experiences they offer to tourists.

The promotion, which is being launched under the title of ScotlandWhisky, begins today (December 1st).

May 2009 will be one of the peak periods for the initiative as a number of major whisky-themed events are held.

Chris Conway of ScotlandWhisky said that the desire to try Scotch whisky in its home country is a big part of many visitors' experiences of Scotland.

He added: "Edinburgh is rightly famous for its bars and 'whisky bars of Edinburgh' brings together ten fantastic examples of where visitors can enjoy a dram in a traditional setting.

"Each bar has a great reputation for its Scotch whisky range and staff that have passed the Scotch whisky training school."

The establishments taking part in the initiative include the Albannach on the Royal Mile, the Abbotsford on Rose Street and Leslie's Bar on Ratcliffe Terrace.

Whisky will be an important part of Homecoming Scotland 2009 - a year of events organised to celebrated the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns.

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