The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh?

[Jack Daw]

A colleague at the office showed me a travel magazine that featured an ad for The Scotch Bar at the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. The ad mentioned that the bar has approximately 400 varieties of scotch!

It's easy to infer that because the hotel is termed a luxury hotel, that the scotch prices are "dear", but Americans are used to seeing such prices on American menus. I rarely pay the price, unless I see something unusual or difficult to get.

I'm having difficulty pulling up the bar menu at the Balmoral Hotel. Has anyone been there and is willing to share their experience with the place?

[Calgacus]

Hi Steve,

I've not had the pleasure myself, but my mother likes nothing more than afternoon tea in the Balmoral.

I believe the price of a dram varies from £4 to £85. Presumably they are all malts, which means prices start at a reasonable level. I seriously doubt they serve blends.

*Edit* They do serve blends! I hope it's not £4 for a nip of Bell's!

[cessna152towser]

I've only been inside the Balmoral once.
The bar is seriously expensive.
Some of the staff wear kilts, particularly the doormen.

[tpa]

Hi Steve,

I've not had the pleasure myself, but my mother likes nothing more than afternoon tea in the Balmoral.

That's what she tells you.

[Orionson]

If you are looking for an extra special experience, or you are celebrating a special anniversary, birthday, engagement etc. with your significant other, you can't possibly go wrong at The Balmoral. Sure, it is expensive but it is, in my humble opinion, well worth every single cent. Over the years, I've learned that you can't go wrong in a Rocco Forte Hotel.. The Service, the Decor, the Food, the Lounges, Restaurants and Bars are graceful, elegant and sophisticated. Top Notch. If it helps, think James Bond or Steve McQueen level Cool. If you are clever, snoop around a bit and plan well in advance, you CAN actually get some very nice package deals. If you want to push the boat out for something really special, you can't go wrong with Forte. Bring your Best Black/White Tie attire. It isn't essential, but it can only enhance your experience and no one will think you are out of place.

[1oldsarge]

I've been to "The Scotch Whiskey Experience" on the Royal Mile just below Edinburgh Castle. Quite a few varieties, tasting available, and reasonable as I recall...

[creagdhubh]

Check this out, Jack:

http://www.edinburghwhiskyblog.com/2...-the-balmoral/

[piperdbh]

At 4 GBP, or approx. $6.40 US, I'll sell my bottle of Laphroaig by the dram. Come on over!

[MacRobert's Reply]

Yes the Balmoral is very expensive. I have only dined and imbibed there on a business expenses account ... not mine!

[creagdhubh]

Yes the Balmoral is very expensive. I have only dined and imbibed there on a business expenses account ... not mine!

Now, that's the way to do it!