
Raise a ToastThis Burns Night 25/01/25
The first Burns Supper was held in 1801 to honour Scotland’s most iconic poet on the fifth anniversary of his passing. Friends of the Bard of Ayrshire served haggis, recited his great works and – of course – drank whisky. The event was such a roaring success and the attendees agreed they would repeat it the following year; this time on Burns’ birthday, 25 January. Today, Burns Suppers are held on every continent – whether elaborate affairs or small gatherings to enjoy a few drams and some verse. It’s with this in mind, that we invite you to join us and raise a toast to Robert Burns this January.
How to Host a Burns Supper "Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face, Great Chieftain o’ the Puddin-race!"
A traditional Burns Night calls for haggis, pipers and formal dress. But we feel that if you have good company, good whisky and a selection of the Ploughman Poet’s works to hand then you have everything you need to celebrate. This is why we’ve assembled a few of our favourite drams for toasting with with while you recite Address to a Haggis, Scotch Drink or Tam o' Shanter.
Burns Night Whiskies

Ben Nevis 20196 Year Old Caoineag The Weeping Spirit The Whisky Exchange
£59.95

Glen Scotia 201410 Year Old Whisky Show 2025
£87.95

Torabhaig Sound of Sleat
£60.50

Blair Athol 200716 Year Old The Seasons: Winter The Whisky Exchange
£110

Dailuaine 16 Year OldFlora & Fauna
£64.95

Orkney (HP) 200022 Year Old Whisky Show 2023
£250
Who Was Robert Burns? "Liberty’s in every blow! Let us do or dee."
From the publication of his first works – the now-legendary Kilmarnock Volume – Robert Burns distinguished himself as a poet, a humanist and a Scotsman. Writing in a distinctive, light Scots dialect he beautifully articulated local life, and life in general, finding profundity in folklore, history and the lives of ordinary people. His impact on Scottish culture and literature around the world cannot be overestimated. These achievements are all the more amazing when we consider his time on earth was tragically brief.
The Immortal Memory "The best laid schemes o’ Mice an’ Men Gang aft agley…"
Burns was just 37 when he died. His funeral was held the following Monday, the same day his wife Jean Armour gave birth to their son, Maxwell. Despite his wishes for a modest funeral, his procession was met by thousands of mourners who lined the streets of Dumfries. He was buried with full military honours and the freedom of the city. Though he passed too young, Burns’ legacy would live on, marked each year with feasting and revelling in his honour. Here’s to him.
Celebrate Burns Night at The Whisky Exchange
On Thursday 23 January we’ll be running special Burns Night tastings at our Covent Garden, London Bridge and Great Portland Street shops. Book your ticket today and sample single malts from some of Scotland’s most exciting producers while we toast the great Rabbie Burns.


