March 27, 2013 · Team HG
The visitors of the 8th, who once again flocked in large numbers Whisky Festival Northern Netherlands had to brave harsh winter conditions in long lines before entering the Valhalla of whisky-minded Groningen. Once inside the A-kerk, tasting glass in hand, the hardships of waiting for entry and the cloakroom quickly evaporated.
The diversity of exhibitors clearly demonstrates that the WFNN can hold its own against national and international whisky festivals. Around 40 exhibitors from home and abroad showcase much related to Scotland and its main export product during this three-day event: clothing, books, cheese, chutneys, marmalades, and natural whiskies. Many, very many whiskies.
In addition to an abundance of “Uisge beathe,” which is Celtic for water of life and is pronounced “wieske” from all corners of Scotland, whisky enthusiasts could also indulge in Irish, American, Canadian, and Japanese varieties. The Groninger Hooghoudt distillery introduced the connoisseurs of the WFNN to her new line of Rich Genevers, of which the Hooghoudt No. 45 and 67 garnered much appreciation. The Groningen City BrewerThe Crooked Jat“ amazed many a festival-goer with her beer “Pagode”. A 7.5% dark red brew based on whisky malt and aged with barrel wood from “Islay”.
The atmosphere of the 8th WFNN in the A-kerk can be described, to quote outgoing chair Renie Jas: “You shouldn’t drink whisky, you should experience it.” The festival is pure, full of passion for the “water of life,” and despite the crowds, you are drawn into its hospitality. The organization focuses not only on the seasoned whisky enthusiast, but thanks to a variety of workshops, masterclasses, tastings, and excursions outside the church, newcomers to the world of whisky can get acquainted with “Uisge beathe.”
Author: M. Linneman
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