Stories behind the festival

6 September 2026

How two passions became a festival

Tenor at Zurich Opera House, whisky expert, festival founder: the story of Andreas Winkler and how a tasting series grew into the Whisky & Music Festival Zürich.

30 September 2026

Whisky meets Gaelic song

Ryan Johnston leads our Ardnahoe masterclass — a native Ileach and gold medal winner in Gaelic men's singing at the Royal National Mòd 2024. Whisky and music from the same place.

2026 Annual Program

Two new tasting evenings before the festival

On 25 September, Stefan Wolters of Acla da Fans opens the door to the world of independent bottlers; on 30 October, the exclusive Top Rarities Tasting follows — both with a live concert by Andreas & Michael Winkler.

New on the programme

Teeling masterclass newly confirmed

On Saturday evening, Beibhinn O'Reilly, Brand Ambassador for Teeling Whiskey, presents a selection from young cask experiments to the rare 21-year-old Vintage Reserve — including the sought-after Blackpitts editions.

From the whisky world

The Balvenie unveils the oldest single malt ever released

88 years in the cask, just 17 bottles worldwide: in early September, The Balvenie unveiled the oldest single malt ever brought to market — distilled back in 1931. At our masterclass on 27.11., Brand Ambassador Charlie Metcalfe brings five expressions from that very distilling tradition to Zürich.

Source: Forbes

From the whisky world

Teeling's master distiller named Master Distiller of the Year

Alex Chasko, Head Distiller at Teeling Whiskey, was named "Master Distiller of the Year" at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards — the brand also picked up several gold medals at IWSC 2026. On 28.11., Brand Ambassador Beibhinn O'Reilly brings the award-winning range to our Saturday masterclass.

Source: Teeling Distillery

In the works

The Whisky & Music Podcast

Andreas Winkler in conversation about whisky, music and the stories behind the festival. The first episode is in production — more here soon.