Interested in learning the difference between a single malt and a blend or a 10, 14 or 18-year old whisky?
Then join us on the Main Stage for the 2026 ScotFestBC Whisky School with Macaloney Distillery, JAK’s Beer Wine & Spirits and The British Store.
Friday Night Island Spirit Social
On Friday, Whisky School tickets include entry to the grounds
One Sitting:
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Friday Evening “The Island Spirit Social”
Tickets: $60 + service charge
Join us for an evening where Scottish tradition meets local flavour. A one-of-a-kind after-work mixer featuring five award-winning Macaloney Distillery whiskies with a selection of Scottish-inspired local delicacies, in a unique setting beside Lafarge Lake, Coquitlam.
It starts at 6:00 pm. And it isn’t just a tasting; it’s an audience with a master. ScotFestBC kicks off with the man who revolutionized Canadian craft distilling and was just awarded Best Craft Distiller at the World Whisky Awards. With more than 30-years of global expertise and a PhD in fermentation, Dr. Graeme Macaloney brings a legendary flare and deep-rooted passion to every glass he pours.
With Macaloney’s Whisky in hand, engage directly with Graeme as he shares the stories behind his “World’s Best” winners. Paired with authentic savory appetizers from The British Store, this is the ultimate VIP launch for the weekend.
Enjoy Five premium pours including the world-champion Kildara, the decadent Cath-Nah-Aven, and the salt-sprayed Peat Project: Sugar Kelp.
Food Sponsor: The British Store, Surrey, BC
Presented by: Dr. Graeme Macaloney, Founder, Macaloney Distillery
Limited seating
12:00 pm
The Whisky Revolution (Macaloney’s)
Forget everything you know about “standard” maturation. Macaloney’s Duncan Polson leads this fascinating exploration into the vanguard of spirit science. This session focuses on Macaloney’s boundary-pushing Single Cask and Small Batch experiments—where the wood does the talking. This is a masterclass showcasing how non-traditional barrels are being used to create the most complex whiskies ever produced on the West Coast.
Presenter: Duncan Polson, Macaloney’s Whisky Ambassador
Sponsored by: Macaloney Distillery
Price: $65 + service charge (includes entry fee)
1:00 pm
The Spirit of Islay (JAK’s)
A pilgrimage to the “Queen of the Hebrides.” Explore the peated icons of this rugged island. This session dives into the maritime smoke, seaweed, and brine notes that have made Islay the most famous whisky region in the world. A must-attend for those who worship a powerful “smoke and salt” profile.
Presenter: Diageo Ambassador (TBA)
Sponsored by: JAK’s Beer Wine Spirits
Price: $65 + service charge (includes entry fee)
2:00 pm
The Highland Heights (JAK’s)
This session dives into the sophisticated world of Highland single malts. Explore the nuanced, honeyed, and occasionally spicy profiles that define northern craftsmanship. From floral delicacies to rich, structured oak, this class highlights the refined legacy and diverse character of Scotland’s most expansive whisky region.
Presenter: Beam Suntory Ambassador
Sponsored by: JAK’s Beer Wine Spirits
Price: $65 + service charge (includes entry fee)
3:00 pm
The Grand Tour (JAK’s)
An Elevated Journey Through Scotland. Our “Premium” session for the curious palate. This class is designed for those who want to go beyond the basics and understand the incredible diversity of Scotch whisky in one sitting..
Presenter: Diageo Ambassador
Sponsored by: JAK’s Beer Wine Spirits
Price: $75 + service charge (includes entry fee)
4:00 pm
The Peat Project (Macaloney’s)
Smoke, Sea, and Terroir. This is the ultimate session for the smoke-lover who thinks they’ve tasted it all. While the world looks to the mossy bogs of Islay, Macaloney’s has spent years perfecting a purely North American peated profile that is as bold as the Pacific spirit. Join Duncan Polson for a masterclass in The Peat Project—a technical and sensory journey into the most unique smoke-infusion process in the industry.
* Following this class, you’ll have time to make it to the Lew Ross Field for the finale “Massed Pipe Bands”, followed by The Barra MacNeil’s in the Big Tent.
Presenter: Duncan Polson, Macaloney’s Whisky Ambassador
Sponsored by Macaloney Distillery
Price: $65 + service charge (includes entry fee)
