If you’re a fan of Scotch whisky, then the Westin Kierland Scotch Library in Scottsdale, Arizona should be at the top of your list of places to visit. Located in a cozy nook off the hotel’s main lobby, this unique space hosts small groups for weekly tastings every Friday evening. With nearly 150 active whisky distilleries spread across Scotland, there’s never a shortage of high-quality Scotch to sample.
Master of Scotch Guy Sporbert, the senior Scotch ambassador at the Westin Kierland, leads the tastings and helps guests home in on the right Scotch for their taste. Certified as a Master of Scotch by the Council of Whiskey Masters, Sporbert is highly knowledgeable about the different varieties of Scotch available. The Library is not a full-service bar, but rather an intimate experience where guests can enjoy personalized attention and guidance.
The inventory at the Westin Kierland Scotch Library is truly impressive, with a collection of 370 bottles that includes rare and aged whiskies such as a 62-year-old Macallan, a 50-year-old Glenfiddich, and a 50-year-old Balvenie. These rare bottles come with a hefty price tag, but according to Sporbert, what you pay for in the whisky world is rarity. The allure of these rare whiskies is tough to resist, and Sporbert, who drinks whisky daily, considers his job as a Scotch ambassador to be the best in the world.
The Westin Kierland is the only hotel in America to have its own registered tartan, and Sporbert often wears plaid that matches the tartan while pouring whiskies for guests. The space at the Scotch Library is limited, with only five tables available, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for each guest. Reservations are spaced out by at least 30 minutes to allow Sporbert and his fellow ambassadors to give each guest the appropriate attention.
Overall, the Westin Kierland Scotch Library offers a unique and luxurious Scotch-drinking experience for both enthusiasts and newbies. With its vast selection of high-quality Scotch whiskies and knowledgeable staff, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in a premium Scotch experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Scotch drinker or new to the world of whisky, the Library provides an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.
