Glenmorangie Virtual Whisky Tasting Feedback
Glenmorangie Whisky Tasting
What did attendees say about the Scottish Society of Ottawa’s (SSO) Glenmorangie Virtual Tutored Whisky Tasting (June 29, 2021)? See their feedback below, provided by 29 participants (70% response rate). Prior to this, the SSO collected responses from 24 attendees who participated at the St. Andrew’s Day Virtual Tutored Whisky Tasting (November 30, 2020). This provides a baseline against which to compare the Glenmorangie event. Thanks to all who take the time to provide their comments. Your opinions are much appreciated. It makes the SSO a better society and helps gauge member needs and interests.
The whisky tasting package included six whisky samples from Glenmorangie, as well as samples of Nairn’s Fruit and Seed oatcakes, Mackie’s of Scotland Potato Crisps, Walkers Shortbread, and maple candies. Like the 2020 St. Andrew’s Day Whisky Tasting, the 2021 Glenmorangie event was sold out. Observing strict COVID protocols, fifty (50) packages were delivered directly to attendees’ doors by a dedicated team of SSO volunteers. The SSO is grateful to the enthusiastic support from all our hard-working volunteers. Special thanks also goes to SSO whisky tasting organizer - Emmett Hossack, founder of WhiskyScores.com, the event presenter - Bryan Simpson (National Brand Ambassador for Glenmorangie), and Kerry Dickson (Scottish Affairs Office Canada) who helped launch this event with words of welcome from the Scottish Government.
Feedback Highlights:
Two-thirds (66%) of Glenmorangie attendees were paid SSO members. The 2021 Glenmorangie event attracted more non-SSO member attendees (34%) compared to the 2020 St. Andrew’s Day event (25%).
Two-thirds (66%) of respondents reside in Ottawa. Surrounding areas accounted for 34%, with 17% residing in communities of Rideau Lakes, Leeds and Grenville, South Glengarry, South Stormont, Lanark, and 17% located in Quebec (Gatineau, Wakefield, Val-des-Monts).
Just under two-thirds (62%) were first time attendees, and 96% of all participants judged the Glenmorangie Whisky Tasting a huge success (very satisfied or satisfied).
All attendees (100%) signaled that they were likely to participate in future SSO events.
Compared to the 2020 St. Andrew’s Day event, Glenmorangie 2021 attracted a slightly younger audience (34% under the age of 56), gender was relatively split (male - 59%/female - 41%) and 55% of attendees were employed in the private, government, and social sectors.
First-time attenders at the 2021 Glenmorangie event were more likely to be non-paid SSO members, female, younger (i.e. Gen X/Z) and employed.
Half of the respondents provided written comments. These were extremely positive, describing the event as supportive in terms of community building, and providing an opportunity for couples to participate in tasting together. The virtual nature of the event was highlighted as a success, and the presenter was singled out for his demonstration style and knowledge. Some attendees were even motivated to “upgrade their SSO membership”.
Several attendees provided additional suggestions. These included a desire to obtain added insights on whisky making process, and including perhaps a virtual distillery tour. Others suggested an event that might showcase emerging Canadian single malts, and the possibility of the SSO to partner with other local high-visibility events such as Speaker of Parliament’s Robbie Burns Dinner, Ottawa Whisky Festival, etc.
In summary, the Scottish Society of Ottawa’s (SSO) 2021 Glenmorangie Virtual Tutored Whisky Tasting was judged a huge success. The next SSO-hosted whisky tasting event will take place in the Fall, linked with St. Andrew’s Day (November 30, 2021). Stay tuned for further details.
Should you have any additional questions or comments regarding the SSO feedback process, do not hesitate to contact Wayne MacDonald, Director at Large, Scottish Society of Ottawa Sherpa@OttScot.com