GATHER AROUND Last year, the Society hosted an international gathering. A special opportunity for branches of the Society to all come together, share in the experience of being a member, and truly feel like you’re in a Gathering. A gathering of friends, whisky lovers, dram appreciators, and more. A coming together of like-minded flavour explorers navigating the amazing experiences we held around the country. For 2020, the Gathering returns, albeit predictably quite differently. This year we have a jam-packed roster of special micro-experiences, a massive virtual tasting, and a different sense of gathering. I was at the cusp of pulling my hair out when arranging this year’s Gathering. How would it look? What does the tradition of sharing and telling stories look like in the context of a pandemic? I think we’ve found a nice balance, and one that is safe, accessible, and exciting for members around the country.
really struck a chord with me was the real sense of gathering and truly remarkable ‘whisky epiphanies’ we had along the way. If there’s one thing about the Society that we truly love and don’t express enough, it’s the ‘pop’ moments you have along the way when, in the right company and nosing a glass, you realise there’s something truly special in your glass, surrounded by amazing people. This is part of what fuels my excitement for this year’s Gathering. I refuse to be ruled by the medium, so whether it’s virtual, in person, when or where you enjoy it, this year is geared up and ready to roll. See you there!
One thing about last year’s Gathering (yes, it’s been a full year, somehow) that
CONNECT WITH MATT E: bailey@smws.com.au @smws_matt
Matt Bailey ~ SMWS National Ambassador
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