Greetings from Edinburgh and hello to fellow fans of fine drams and those passionate about the craft that goes into making them.

Here at Wonderworks, we recently had the pleasure of attending the inaugural Edinburgh Bar Show, and as a creative drinks agency, what a pleasure it was! Our team, now proudly boasting a new Scottish office, ventured forth to immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of Scotland's drinks scene. Today, we’re sharing some of our favourite adventures, key highlights and top insights gained from the event.

A Toast to Tradition and Innovation

From the 8th-10th April, Edinburgh played host to its first annual bar extravaganza – a celebration of Scotland's rich heritage in spirits and mixology. Organised by industry stalwarts Iain McPherson, Jamie Faulds, and Gary Anderson, the three-day affair promised a fusion of tradition and innovation, set against the picturesque backdrop of Scotland's capital.

The show aimed to galvanise bartenders across Scotland, offering them a platform to share knowledge and skills, and network with others in the Scottish bartending world. With Class magazine as the media partner, and esteemed venues such as Panda & Sons, Hey Palu, and Bramble in the spotlight, the stage was set for an unforgettable showcase of talent and creativity.

Our Highlights

As branding specialists and aficionados of drinks activation branding, we found ourselves captivated by the variety of experiences the Edinburgh Bar Show had to offer. Here are some of our top highlights:

1.     Panda and Sons Takeover with Erik Lorincz: Nestled in the bustling hidden cocktail bar Panda and Sons, we had the pleasure of indulging in a takeover menu curated by none other than Erik Lorincz, the legendary owner of Kwãnt and ex Head Bartender of The Savoy. Each sip was a symphony of flavours, with our personal favourite being 'The Wallet'—a tantalising blend of Adray whisky, barley vermouth, salted maple, and chestnut. It was a night of great fun and exquisite cocktails, setting the tone for the festivities to come.

2.     Virgin Hotel Opening Party: Virgin Hotels, in partnership with Aberfeldy, Craigallachie, and Royal Brackla, welcomed us with open arms, treating guests to a lavish affair. From the velvety black pouches containing our drink tokens to the mesmerising light projections and tantalising cocktails, every detail was meticulously crafted to elevate the experience. The evening unfolded with a symphony of flavours, showcasing the versatility and ingenuity of Scotland's whisky culture.

3.     The Ada Coleman Project Seminar: Our journey of discovery continued with the Ada Coleman Project Seminar—an ode to women+ in the on-trade. Hosted by Kristine Bocchino and Caitlin Wilkes-Back, the session shed light on the initiative's mission to empower women in the hospitality and drinks industry. From mentorship opportunities to networking roundtables, the project aims to foster gender equality and diversity in the drinks industry, paving the way for a more inclusive future.

Insights and Observations

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the Edinburgh Bar Show provided us with valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the Scottish drinks industry. Here are some key takeaways:

Brand Presence: Unlike traditional bar shows, the emphasis at the Edinburgh Bar Show was on authentic experiences rather than overt branding. From intimate takeovers to engaging seminars, drinks brands leveraged creativity and innovation to connect with their audience on a deeper level.

Driving Drinks Trends: Seminars such as “Driving Drinks Trends Sponsored by Campari” offered invaluable insights into consumer preferences and behaviours. From the rise of social media as a source of cocktail inspiration to the enduring appeal of classic flavours, understanding these trends is essential for brand development and creative strategy.

Inclusivity and Empowerment: The Ada Coleman Project exemplifies the industry's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity. By providing a platform for women+ to thrive and succeed, initiatives like these are shaping the future of the hospitality landscape. 

In short, the Edinburgh Bar Show was more than just a gathering of industry professionals—it was a celebration of Scotland's vibrant drinks culture and lasting pursuit of excellence. As we look back on the inaugural event, we carry a renewed sense of purpose and passion for our craft. Here's to raising a glass to the boundless creativity and innovation that define the world of drinks!

And long may the Edinburgh Bar Show continue.

To find out how we can help your drinks brand in Scotland, get in touch below