Shared Spirit brings ‘different approach’ to whisky festivals
A culture-led festival designed for exploration, inclusion and modern drinkers is coming to London in June to ‘redefine what a whisky event can be’.
Taking place at St Mary’s Church in Primrose Hill, north London, on 6 June, Shared Spirit will be a culture-led festival designed for people who ‘don’t do whisky festivals’.
Described as ‘more summer fair than tasting room’, the festival seeks to remove the hierarchy, gatekeeping and assumed knowledge often associated with traditional whisky events. Instead, it will bring together a curated selection of ‘forward-thinking’ whisky brands alongside music, food, art and creative programming.
Rather than centring expertise or exclusivity, Shared Spirit plans to focus on flavour, conversation and connection, creating space for people to explore whisky at their own pace.
Moderation and accessibility have been anchored to the festival’s design, with small pours, a relaxed flow to the two entry sessions, and the inclusion of food, coffee, cocktails and beer options intended to support a balanced and welcoming experience.
The event is also working in partnership with organisations that promote a safer, more inclusive drinks culture. Meanwhile, the programme will reflect a broader shift within whisky that focuses on openness, diversity and cultural relevance.
Brands taking part have been selected not only for the quality of their whisky, but for their values and willingness to engage directly with a wider audience. Currently billed for the festival are Amrut, Bruichladdich, Cotswolds Distillery, Nc’nean, The Doghouse, The Heart Cut, and Woven, plus others.
The event sponsors are Fever-Tree, Bushmills, Welsh Whisky Society, and Urban Bar.
A portion of Shared Spirit’s profits will be donated to UK-based non-profit Equal Measures, which supports equity and access in the drinks and hospitality sector through education and mentorship.
The event will run over two sessions: 12pm to 3pm and 4pm to 7pm.
Tickets are on sale now, with prices from £46.50 (US$62.50). Each ticket includes access to up to 100 different whiskies, a tasting glass to keep and a welcome drink. Live DJs and music will be available throughout the day, as well as workshops and discovery sessions, and street food vendors and cocktails.
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