Royal Mile Whiskies
379 High Street
What is it - Since opening its doors in 1991, Royal Mile Whiskies has built up the reputation as one of the most respected whisky merchants on the planet. This was built on having some of the best people in the industry work for them over the years and constantly evolving the business to ensure they stay relevant. This passion has also saw them winning multiple awards over the years includ-ing Whisky Magazine’s Retailer of the Year Award in 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2015. In 2002 they made the big step of opening another shop in Bloomsbury Street, London. Situated a stones throw from the British Museum, Oxford Street and Covent Garden, their second shop has also built up a world class reputation for offering the best whiskies around. As they indus-try has changed so have Royal Mile, they have expanded from whisky to offer gins, craft beer and other amazing brands to their customers.
Verdict - While both the shops locations are prime locations with huge footfall the team here don’t just rely on this to keep people coming through the doors. They have always had the some of the most knowledgable and passionate people working for them that know everything you would need to know about not just whisky but all spirits. They have also recently put more of a focus supplying bars and restraints with their products meaning you will be seeing much more interesting brands sitting on backbars all over the country. This isn't just a whisky shop for geeks, it’s a place that has ignited passion for whiskies in thousands of people that have walked through their doors.
Drink - As i said its not just about the whisky here. This place is one of my go to’s if i am feeling bored and want to try some new as you know that any of the team here are going to pick out the perfect whisky for you to try. People like Mark Davidson and Arthur Motley are constantly on the look out for new and exciting brands to bring to the shop with the selection ever changing to keep its customers coming back for more. Keep your eye out for any of their independent bottling as they are some of the best you will find.
Interesting Fact - They company also own 2 other shops under the name Drinkmonger, with one in Pitlochry and Bruntsfield in Edinburgh. These shops specialise in wines, craft beers and specialist spirits as well as an extensive array of whiskies. As well as the Drinkmonger shops they also run a yearly whisky festival called The Whisky Fringe which is now in it’s 18th year. This festival is on for 3 days in August at Mansfield Traquair.
Perfect for - If you have a present to buy for a loved one that enjoys a drink. All you have to do is tell the tram here roughly what you are looking for and let them work their magic.
Avoid if - Alcohol just isn't your thing.
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